Origin and Nature of Haustoria in Lobelia cardinalis

Abstract

1. In Lobelia cardinalis the pollen tube destroys one of the synergids. The other synergid degenerates after fertilization. 2. The antipodal cells persist during the early stages of endosperm development. 3. The endosperm is cellular and follows the Scutellaria-type of development as in other species of Lobelia. One case showing the Phyteuma-type of development was found. 4. At the eight-celled stage of the endosperm the two terminal cells at each end develop into the micropylar and the chalazal haustoria, respectively. The haustoria do not arise from the synergids and antipodals as described by Cooper.