The reproductive microbiome inhibits pollen germination in milkweed
Harmony J. Dalgleish, Joshua R. Puzey, Katie Barlow, Olivia Cunningham, Elizabeth M. Davies, Hannah Machiorlete, Geneva Waynick, Kurt E. Williamson
This study shows that the stigmatic microbiome of milkweeds affects pollen germination, with some microbial taxa being harmful and others neutral, and that pollinators may transfer these harmful microbes.
bioRxiv · Sep 25, 2025 · PreprintPlant Biology