Breeding systems and pistil structure in the family proteaceae / Merran Lisa Matthews.

Abstract

This study aimed to broaden understanding of breeding systems in Australian Proteaceae and to study the optimum requirements for promotion of seed germination in two lesser researched genera with horticultural potential, Dryandra quercifolia and Dryandra formosa. The timing and pattern of stigma receptivity was determined using a combination of techniques. Findings can be used to breed and improve these species for further commercialisation in cut flower and garden industries. The study of pistil structure further identified the potential of this structure to affect the capacity of a proteaceous flower to be fertilised. Aspects such as the morphology and size of the stigmatic cavity and the quantity of transmitting tissue in the style were highlighted as filters to pollen tube passage. Comparative studies with other angiosperm species confirmed the unusual structure of the pistil of the proteaceous flower. Seed germination was found to be promoted by exposure of seeds to controlled temperatures of 15C.