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Draft 1

Submitted by dfmiller on Fri, 09/06/2019 - 15:14

In the analysis of the plant sample given, several observations can be made. Firstly, the sample appears to be a compound leaf structure. The compound leaf is composed of two horizontal leaves and one larger vertical leaf, all originating out of a single junction point on the stem. Upon initial observation of the stem itself, it appears to have a reddish hue that changes with intensity throughout the compound leaf structure. From the cut point on the stem, it is faintly red in color. Then, directly after the junction point of the three leaves, it sharply intensifies in this red hue, then quickly fades upon traveling into the leaf itself. Other observations of color can be made as well. In all three leaves, there are spots of brown discoloration, presumably dead cells, that are located more towards the edge of the leaf. In the left horizontal leaf on this particular sample, however, there is a larger pattern of dead cells more towards the center of the leaf. The brown discoloration appears to be a snake-like structure, possible the result of some kind of parasitic larva that uses the plant as a host during its early development. Additionally, there is a semi-waxy coating to the top of the leaf, giving the leaf a dark green appearance and presumably assisting in protection of the leaf and unwanted rapid water loss. Through this coating, the plant's vascular system is visible, with vein-like structures reaching across the leaf and back into the central stem. 
 

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