Ramirez et al. 2009 (Article) Tillandsia

It takes two to tango: self incompatibility in the bromeliad Tillandsia streptophylla (Bromeliaceae) in Mexico

Author(s):—I.M. Ramírez M., F. Chi May, G. Carnevali Fernández-Concha & F. May Pat

Publication:—Revista de Biología Tropical Vol. 57 (3): 761-770. (2009)

Abstract:—Floral phenology and breeding system of Tillandsia streptophylla (Bromeliaceae) were studied in a low inundated forest in Yucatan, Mexico. During the flowering season, from March to August, terminal scapose 1-branched, paniculate inflorescences are produced with one flower per branch opening per day, over a period of 11-29 days. Flowers are tubular, light violet, with the stigma placed below the anthers, both protruding above the corolla. Flowers are protandrous, with anthers releasing pollen from 0500 hours and stigma becoming receptive around 0900 hours. Controlled experimental crosses suggest that Tillandsia streptophylla is self incompatible and therefore, pollinator-dependent. Rev. Biol. Trop. 57 (3): 761-770. Epub 2009 September 30

Keywords:—breeding systems, Bromeliaceae, conservation, Yucatan Peninsula.