Intraspecific crossability and compatibility within Solanum aethiopicum

View/ Open
Date
2021Author
Buteme, Ruth
Nakajiri, Mary
Kucel, Newton
Nahamya Kabod, Pamela
Sseremba, Godfrey
Balyejusa Kizito, Elizabeth
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
Understanding hybridization barriers is relevant for germplasm conservation and utilization. The prezygotic
barriers to hybridization include floral morphological differences like pistil and stamen length, pollen characteristics
and pollen-pistil interactions. This study sought to elucidate the reproductive biology of Solanum
aethiopicum; its mating systems and compatibility barriers. Eight genotypes of Solanum aethiopicum were examined
for differences in floral morphology, phenology and cross compatibility in a full diallel mating design, with
assessment of fruit set, seed set and seed viability. In-vivo pollen tube growth was observed for failed crosses at 24,
48 and 72 h after pollination. All genotypes had heterostyly flowers, with predominantly small white petals.
Incompatibility was observed in five out of 39 combinations. All selfed genotypes displayed compatibility
implying the genotypes are self-compatible. Pollen–pistil incompatibility, which was exhibited in four out of the
five failed cross combinations, occurred on the stigma, upper style and lower style, a phenomenon typical in
Solanaceae. Solanum aethiopicum is self-compatible and majorly self-pollinating but has features that support
cross-pollination.
Collections
- Natural Sciences [580]