Palynological studies on selected members of Fabaceae

Abstract

The investigation into pollen biology encompasses various stages such as pollen production, transfer to stigma, and the ensuing interactions leading to fertilization. Stigma plays a crucial role in providing an optimal environment for pollen germination and subsequent tube growth. However, conducting in vivo studies presents challenges due to the complexities of pistillate tissues, thus necessitating a reliance on in vitro cultures to comprehend pollen physiology. This study focuses on assessing pollen viability and germination in a selection of Fabaceae species, including Canavalia gladiata, Centrosoma pubescens, Clitoria ternatea, Crotalaria pallida, Glyricidia maculata, Pueraria phaseoloides, and Vigna unguiculata, utilizing tetrazolium testing and hanging drop culture methods. Results demonstrate a range of variability in pollen viability (from 19.38% to 80.78%) and germination (ranging from 23.90% to 79.81%), with Crotalaria pallida exhibiting the highest rates of viability and germination, whereas Clitoria ternatea and Pueraria phaseoloides displayed the lowest rates. This investigation contributes valuable insights into the pollen characteristics of Fabaceae species, hinting at possible connections between pollen viability/germination and seed/fruit set percentages.