Variation of hydrocarbon constituents of epicuticular wax of leaves of Litchi chinensis Sonn.

Abstract

Epicuticular wax of leaves of Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) collected all through the year and n-alkane extract was analysed by thin layer chromatography, infrared spectroscopy and gas liquid chromatography, using standard hydrocarbons. Twenty long chain hydrocarbons (n-C₁₆ to n-C₃₅) were identified and quantified. Distinct variation of hydrocarbon content has been observed during different time of the year. Scanning electron microscopic views of total epicuticular wax, hydrocarbon and upper surface of Litchi chinensis Sonn. leaf during the fruiting stage of the tree has also been done.