Most relevant microhistological characters of Cistus species for herbivore diet determination

The genus Cistus plays a crucial role in the Mediterranean ecosystems. However, studies on microhistological characters of its leaves are scarce, resulting in a knowledge gap. We focused here on all Cistus species in the eastern Sierra Morena, southern Iberian Peninsula: C. albidus, C. crispus, C. ladanifer, C. laurifolius, C. monspeliensis, C. populifolius and C. salviifolius, because these species are present in the diet of ruminant herbivores such as deer. Our study involved analysing, characterizing, and comparing trichomes, stomata and epidermal cells, with a total of 17 variables analysed. The results confirm the distinction of Cistus species based on microhistological characteristics. Understanding these structures facilitates taxonomic classification and analysis of wild ungulate diet and habitat selection using light microscopy. We generate a helpful resource for future micro-histological analysis studies applied to wild ungulate diets determination, botany, conservation biology and resources management.