Transverse shape analysis of xylem ground tissues by Fourier transform image analysis II: cell wall directions and reconstruction of cell shapes

Cell wall directions of tracheids in transverse sections of Agathis sp. and Cryptomeria japonica and fiber bodies in Magnolia obovata were quantified by Fourier transform image analysis (FTIA). Three kinds of information about cell shapes were determined from the angular distribution functions of the net map-power spectrum pattern (NM-PSP): (1) the peak angle expresses the most frequent cell wall direction, (2) the area of the peak is indicative of cell wall length, and (3) the dispersion of the peak indicates the fluctuation of cell wall orientation. Fluctuations were expressed as the standard deviation (σ) by the use of statistical analysis. Cell wall directions in Agathis, that is, directions of the tangential and radial walls (three orientations were detected) were 0° (σ = 7°), 59° (12°), 91° (9°), and 122° (12°), respectively. Pentagonal and hexagonal models were reconstructed as cell shape models in a calculated ratio of 60 : 40. On the other hand, directions were 0° (5°), 76° (12°), 89° (5°), and 102° (12°) in a calculated ratio of 45 : 55 in Cryptomeria. Fiber bodies were extracted in Magnolia and their wall directions were 0° (5°), 50° (7°), 90° (6°), and 131° (7°), respectively. The ordinary accumulated image analysis (OAIA) was checked at the same time in Agathis, and indicated that FTIA could be used as a method of reconstruction of cell shape.