Thesis (BS Biology) -- University of the Philippines Mindanao, 2008

Morphological examination of the leaf samples from sago plants (with ages 2.5-5.5, 6.5-7.5, 8.5 and 9.5 months) collected from sago growing areas in Kaliloan and Tagbayangbang, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur was done to determine the patterns in leaf morphology based on leaf area, interleaflet, petiole and rachis distances. The petiole and rachis distances were moderately proportionate. The leaf morphology of the sago palm was described as irregularly pinnate and unequally segmented. There was a high level of proportionality between the left and right leaf areas as well as the measured and estimated leaf areas based on leaflet area measurements. Leaflet number and leaf areas were moderately proportionate. Distribution of short spines along the leaflet margin, leaflet midrib, rachis and petiole were examined. Physiological examination of the sago leaf samples was done to provide leaf pigment profile of various ages of the palm in the rosette stage. Similarly, chlorophyll concentration in the different portions (apex, middle and base) of the sago leaflets was also examined and correlated with the age of sago palm. The age was moderately correlated with chlorophyll concentration on all portions of the leaflet. The pigments determined were carotene, pheophytin b, chlorophyll a and b based on Rf values, band color and peaks of absorbance. Coelution of pheophytin a or b with a-carotene and -carotene was also observed. There was a high level of proportionality between chlorophyll a and b Rf values. Color chart for sago pigments was established