THE POLLINATION BIOLOGY OF ARISTOLOCHIA BRACTEOLATA LAMK. (ARISTOLOCHIACEAE

Abstract

Aristolochia bracteolata Lamk. is partially protoynous. The flower exibits fly-trapping mechanism. Only one pollinator, belonging to the genus Forciponzya (Diptera; Ceratopogonidae) is involved. The pollen germination takes place within the dehisced anthers and on perianth parts i.e., within the trap and the prison, producing the pollen tubes, which ultimately reach the stigma and bring about fertilization. Breeding system study revealed that Aristolochia is self-compatible. Significant difference between treatments (bagged and open - pollinated flowers) in terms of fruit set, fruit and seed weight was observed. In all the 3 populations studied, difference in seed set and seed weight was significant while non- significant in fruit set and fruit weight.