Pollen Abnormalities of Saffron (Crocus sativusL.) under Temperate Condition of Kashmir

Abstract

Study on pollen abnormalities of saffron under temperate conditions of Kashmir revealed that C. sativus pollen has pollen grain dimensions ranging from 80.5 to 161.9 μm with pollen grain germination of 16.18% (10.5 to 21.2%). Maximum pollen grain viability (49.4%) with abnormal grains designated as smaller, empty, collapsed and broken walls were observed in the range of 46.3% to 58.0% with a mean of 50.5%. Percentage of abnormal grains increased with decline in temperatures indicating adverse effect of low temperatures on pollen viability. Exine breakage is considered to be the most plausible reason for large proportion of abnormal grains leading to pollen sterility. Low day temperatures (9.5°C-14°C) recorded detrimental impact on pollen germination. Only 0.53% pollen grains exhibited regular pollen tube and thus is a major obstacle in fertilization leading to sterility.