Comparative anatomy of the caryopsis of three perennial forage crops (Gramineae) from the Salado region, Buenos Aires province, Argentina.

The external and internal structure of the caryopsis of forages, characteristic from the Salado region (Buenos Aires province, Argentina) was studied. All the species belong to the Gramineae family (Festucoideae subfamily) and they are: Arrhenatherum elatius, Festuca arundinacea y Phalaris aquatica. They are perennial with greater forage volume production in autumn, winter and spring and are adapted to diverse soil conditions.

Key words: Gramineae, caryopsis, pericarp, embryo, endosperm.