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Megasporogenesis and microsporogenesis in the rubber tree [Hevea brasiliensis (Willd. ex Adr. de Juss.) Müell. Arg.]

S. M. Cuco; G. Bandel

Departamento de Genética, Escola Superior de Agricultura "Luiz de Queiróz", Universidade de São Paulo, Caixa Postal 83, 13400-970 Piracicaba, SP, Brasil. Send correspondence to G.B.

ABSTRACT

A study was made of male and female gametogenesis in the rubber tree [Hevea brasiliensis (Willd. ex Adr. de Juss.) Müell.-Arg.] in order to verify the possible occurrence of meiotic irregularities that could explain the low fruit set observed in this plant. Histological sections of floral buds of 13 clones were made (GT 711, AVROS 1328, RRIM 526, RRIM 600, PR 107, IAN 2652, IAN 2813, Fx 25, PB 86, IAC 1, IAC 2, Tjir 1 and Tjir 16). Mega- and microsporogenesis were normal in all the materials, no irregularities being detected. In Hevea meiosis results in binucleated pollen grains and normal octanucleated embrionary sacs. Each phase of the cycle is discussed.

Keywords: megasporogenesis; microsporogenesis; rubber tree; Hevea brasiliensis.

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