FLORAL NECTARIES AND TRICHOMES IN RELATION TO POLLINATION IN SOME SPECIES OF THEOBROMA AND HERRANIA (STERCULIACEAE)

Abstract

Floral surfaces of two Theobroma spp. and one species of the allied genus Herrania (Sterculiaceae) were examined using scanning electron microscopy for reward system information of the pollinator‐adaptation syndrome. These flowers are structurally complex and have sheltered reproductive parts indicating an elaborate insect‐mediated pollination mechanism. Analysis of anther dehiscence, anthesis and pollen tube growth suggests a crepuscular pollination strategy. Suspected pollinators have been observed on floral parts of theobromas possessing stomate type nectaries and various shaped trichomes (blade of petal ligule and adaxial surface of petal hood). H. purpurea has elongate ligules devoid of stomates. Glandular clublike structures are found on the ovaries of all three spp. In numerous spp. of theobromas, except T. cacao, and two species of Herrania, a conspicuous ring of multicellular trichomes occurs at the adaxial base of the sepals. A possible function for the ring may be fragrance production because of its greatly reduced condition in the faintly scented T. cacao and the prevalence of pronounced fragrances in these other species.