Microsporogenesis and Development of Male Gametophyte in Allium senescens L. (Liliaceae)

Abstract:

The microsporogenesis and development of male gametophyte of Allium senescens L. were studied using method of paraffin section. The anther was found to be 4-sporangiate. The anther wall includes 4 layers: epiderm, endothecium, middle layer and secretory tapetum. Successive cytokinesis in the microspore mother cells (MMCs) follows meiosis. Most mature pollen grains are 2-celled type, rarely 3-celled type. In addition, there are some abnormal phenomena at meiosis of MMCs and uninucleate microspores, including laggard chromosome, chromosome fragments, bridges, double-bridges, micronuclei and so on. These abnormal phenomena is one reason which resulted in abortive pollen.

Key words:Allium senescens L.; Microspore; Pollen; Meiosis; Abnormality