1
|
Paź‐Dyderska S, Jagodziński AM. Potential of reproductive traits in functional ecology: A quantitative comparison of variability in floral, fruit, and leaf traits. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11690. [PMID: 39026952 PMCID: PMC11255459 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite their claimed low intraspecific variability, plant reproductive traits are less frequently used in functional ecology. Here we focused on underrepresented plant organs, i.e. flowers and fruits, by comparing their traits with well-established leaf traits. We evaluated 16 functional traits (six floral, six fruit, and four leaf traits) in a randomly selected group of woody species under comparable environmental conditions. We aimed to assess interspecific and intraspecimen variability and explore the potential of the proposed flower and fruit traits for ecological research. Traits related to the dry mass of flowers and fruits exhibited the highest interspecific variability, while carbon content traits in flowers and leaves had the lowest. At a specimen level, specific leaf area revealed the highest variation. Carbon content traits for all organs demonstrated the least intraspecimen variability, with flower carbon content being the least variable. Our study revealed connections between the newly proposed traits and widely recognized functional traits, uncovering intriguing links between the established traits and the floral and fruit traits upon which we focused. This complements the already well-recognized variability in plant form and function with additional insights into reproductive processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrzej M. Jagodziński
- Institute of Dendrology, Polish Academy of SciencesKórnikPoland
- Poznań University of Life SciencesFaculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Department of Game Management and Forest ProtectionPoznańPoland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ribeiro H, Mariz-Ponte N, Pereira S, Guedes A, Abreu I, Moura L, Santos C. Can Photoselective Nets' Influence Pollen Traits? A Case Study in 'Matua' and 'Tomuri' Kiwifruit Cultivars. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:1691. [PMID: 38931122 PMCID: PMC11207864 DOI: 10.3390/plants13121691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The increasing use of photoselective nets (PNs) raises the question of their influence on pollen traits. We aimed to evaluate the effect of PNs (yellow, pearl, and grey) on the pollen of 'Matua' and 'Tomuri' Actinidia deliciosa cultivars. The pollen size and the exine were studied with a light microscopy and a scanning electron microscopy, and the fertility was analysed by a viability assay and in vitro germination. The total soluble proteins (TSPs) and sugars (TSSs) were quantified by colorimetric assays. The molecular structure of the pollen grain's wall was analysed by a Raman spectroscopy. The pollen from the plants under the PNs had a larger width and area and a lower germination rate. No significant changes were observed in the exine's microperforations. The TSP and TSS contents were influenced by the cultivar and PNs (particularly the pearl PN). The Raman spectra of the pollen from the plants grown under the nets presented some bands that significantly shifted from their original position, indicating differences in the vibration modes of the molecules, but no overall changes at their structural or organisation level were found. Our study showed that the PNs could influence several pollen traits, with the pearl PN inducing greater modifications. Our results also support the idea that cultivars affect the outcome of some characteristics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helena Ribeiro
- Department of Geosciences, Environment and Spatial Plannings, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal (A.G.)
- Earth Sciences Institute (ICT), Pole of the Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno Mariz-Ponte
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
- Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry (LAQV-REQUIMTE), University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sónia Pereira
- Department of Geosciences, Environment and Spatial Plannings, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal (A.G.)
- Earth Sciences Institute (ICT), Pole of the Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Alexandra Guedes
- Department of Geosciences, Environment and Spatial Plannings, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal (A.G.)
- Earth Sciences Institute (ICT), Pole of the Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ilda Abreu
- Earth Sciences Institute (ICT), Pole of the Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Luísa Moura
- Centre for Research and Development in Agrifood Systems and Sustainability (CISAS), Polytechnic Institute of Viana do Castelo, 4900-347 Viana do Castelo, Portugal
| | - Conceição Santos
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
- Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry (LAQV-REQUIMTE), University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Galgóci M, Kormuťák A, Klobučník M, Gömöry D, Lukáčik I, Boleček P. Pollen viability and longevity in Juniperus taxa native to Slovakia. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3706. [PMID: 38355950 PMCID: PMC10866899 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53152-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Pollen viability, dispersion ability and longevity during deep-freezer storage were studied in three Juniperus taxa distributed in Slovakia. All these characteristics of pollen are closely related to the pollination and/or fertilization success of the junipers in nature. Pollen viability varied considerably between the three populations of J. communis and one population of each, J. sibirica and J. communis var. intermedia. Pollen germination rate ranged between 40.75% and 75.06%, and pollen tube length between 30.32 and 40.41 µm. A clear tendency indicates a higher germination rate of J. communis pollen from lower altitudes and reduced germination of J. sibirica and J. communis var. intermedia pollen from higher altitudes. The dispersion potential of the J. communis pollen during its shedding seems relatively low. In 2021, pollen cloud density was diluted at 68.1% at the 4 m distance from the test shrub, in 2022 of 52.1% at the 17 m distance from the pollen source. A deep-freezer storage of juniper pollen in a double-walled polyethylene bag with silica gel was not efficient enough, as indicated by the drop of pollen germination rate of 31.2% in J. communis and of 79.4% in J. sibirica during a 1-year storage period at - 81 °C.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Galgóci
- Plant Science and Biodiversity Center, Institute of Plant Genetics and Biodiversity, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Akademická 2, P.O. Box 39A, 950 07, Nitra, Slovak Republic.
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Constantine Philosopher University in Nitra, A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovak Republic.
| | - Andrej Kormuťák
- Plant Science and Biodiversity Center, Institute of Plant Genetics and Biodiversity, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Akademická 2, P.O. Box 39A, 950 07, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Miroslav Klobučník
- Plant Science and Biodiversity Center, Institute of Plant Genetics and Biodiversity, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Akademická 2, P.O. Box 39A, 950 07, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Dušan Gömöry
- Faculty of Forestry, Technical University in Zvolen, T.G. Masaryka 24, 960 53, Zvolen, Slovak Republic
| | - Ivan Lukáčik
- Faculty of Forestry, Technical University in Zvolen, T.G. Masaryka 24, 960 53, Zvolen, Slovak Republic
| | - Peter Boleček
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Constantine Philosopher University in Nitra, A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Jetschni J, Fritsch M, Jochner-Oette S. How does pollen production of allergenic species differ between urban and rural environments? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2023; 67:1839-1852. [PMID: 37658998 PMCID: PMC10589151 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-023-02545-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Pollen production is one plant characteristic that is considered to be altered by changes in environmental conditions. In this study, we investigated pollen production of the three anemophilous species Betula pendula, Plantago lanceolata, and Dactylis glomerata along an urbanization gradient in Ingolstadt, Germany. We compared pollen production with the potential influencing factors urbanization, air temperature, and the air pollutants nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and ozone (O3). While we measured air temperature in the field, we computed concentration levels of NO2 and O3 from a land use regression model. The results showed that average pollen production (in million pollen grains) was 1.2 ± 1.0 per catkin of Betula pendula, 5.0 ± 2.4 per inflorescence of Plantago lanceolata, and 0.7 ± 0.5 per spikelet of Dactylis glomerata. Pollen production was higher in rural compared to urban locations on average for B. pendula (+ 73%) and P. lanceolata (+ 31%), while the opposite was the case for D. glomerata (- 14%). We found that there was substantial heterogeneity across the three species with respect to the association of pollen production and environmental influences. Pollen production decreased for all species with increasing temperature and urbanization, while for increasing pollutant concentrations, decreases were observed for B. pendula, P. lanceolata, and increases for D. glomerata. Additionally, pollen production was found to be highly variable across species and within species-even at small spatial distances. Experiments should be conducted to further explore plant responses to altering environmental conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Jetschni
- Physical Geography / Landscape Ecology and Sustainable Ecosystem Development, Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt, Eichstätt, Germany
| | - Markus Fritsch
- Chair of Statistics and Data Analytics, School of Business, Economics and Information Systems, University of Passau, Passau, Germany
| | - Susanne Jochner-Oette
- Physical Geography / Landscape Ecology and Sustainable Ecosystem Development, Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt, Eichstätt, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pers-Kamczyc E, Kamczyc J. Study of the Pollen Grain Metabolome under Deposition of Nitrogen and Phosphorus in Taxus baccata L. and Juniperus communis L. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214105. [PMID: 36430583 PMCID: PMC9692909 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Nitrogen plays an important role in both quantitative and qualitative aspects of plant reproduction, including pollen grain compounds and seed production. Recent studies have pointed out that pollen grains produced by male plants of T. baccata and J. communis subjected to a long period of fertilizer supplementation have lower in vitro germination ability and higher nitrogen content. To gain molecular insights into these observations, we conducted GC-MS analysis of both species to characterize the metabolomes of dry, mature pollen grains, which allowed for the identification and quantification of more than 200 metabolites. The results demonstrated that fertilizer supplementation impacts the relative content of 14 metabolites in J. communis (9 downregulated and 5 upregulated) and 21 in T. baccata (6 downregulated and 15 upregulated). Although plants showed little similarity in patterns, in metabolite profiles, both up and down fold-changes were observed. This is the first report on the gymnosperm pollen grain metabolomic profile and changes induced by long-term nitrogen and phosphorus supplementation. Pollen grains produced by fertilizer-supplemented male individuals had significantly lower relative content of linolenic acid, 5,6-dihydrouracil, maltotriose, galactonic acid, D-xylulose, and glycerol-α-phosphate but higher content of sorbitol, glucosamine, and 1,5-anhydro-D-glucitol as well as n-acetyl-d-hexosamine, dimethyl phthalate, glycine, galactose-6-phosphate, D-fructose-6-phosphate, pyroglutamic acid, and 3-(3-hydroxyphenyl)-3-hydroxypropionic acid. Thus, in pollen grain samples earlier shown to have different germination abilities, the presence of different metabolites indicates a significant environmental impact on the quality of gymnosperm pollen grains.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Pers-Kamczyc
- Department of Genetics and Environmental Interactions, Institute of Dendrology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 5 Parkowa Str., 62-035 Kórnik, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Jacek Kamczyc
- Department of Game Management and Forest Protection, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 71 Wojska Polskiego Str., 60-625 Poznań, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Brenzinger K, Maihoff F, Peters MK, Schimmer L, Bischler T, Classen A. Temperature and livestock grazing trigger transcriptome responses in bumblebees along an elevational gradient. iScience 2022; 25:105175. [PMID: 36204268 PMCID: PMC9530833 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Climate and land-use changes cause increasing stress to pollinators but the molecular pathways underlying stress responses are poorly understood. Here, we analyzed the transcriptomic response of Bombus lucorum workers to temperature and livestock grazing. Bumblebees sampled along an elevational gradient, and from differently managed grassland sites (livestock grazing vs unmanaged) in the German Alps did not differ in the expression of genes known for thermal stress responses. Instead, metabolic energy production pathways were upregulated in bumblebees sampled in mid- or high elevations or during cool temperatures. Extensive grazing pressure led to an upregulation of genetic pathways involved in immunoregulation and DNA-repair. We conclude that widespread bumblebees are tolerant toward temperature fluctuations in temperate mountain environments. Moderate temperature increases may even release bumblebees from metabolic stress. However, transcriptome responses to even moderate management regimes highlight the completely underestimated complexity of human influence on natural pollinators. Upregulation of energy metabolism pathways in Bombus lucorum with increasing elevation Genes known for thermal stress responses did not change with increased elevation Bombus lucorum are tolerant toward relatively broad temperature fluctuations Grazing lead to an upregulation in genetic information processes in B. lucorum
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristof Brenzinger
- Department of Animal Ecology and Tropical Biology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
- Corresponding author
| | - Fabienne Maihoff
- Department of Animal Ecology and Tropical Biology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Marcell K. Peters
- Department of Animal Ecology and Tropical Biology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Leonie Schimmer
- Department of Animal Ecology and Tropical Biology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thorsten Bischler
- Core Unit Systems Medicine, University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Alice Classen
- Department of Animal Ecology and Tropical Biology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Long-Term Maternal Fertilizer Addition Increased Seed Size but Decreased Germination Capacity and Offspring Performance in Taxus baccata L. FORESTS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/f13050670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Plant fitness and species persistence depend on seed quantity and their ability to germinate and produce viable offspring. Although maternal environment can have a great impact on seed quality, few studies are pointing to the transgenerational effect of maternal environment on germination rate and offspring traits. Moreover, global changes connected to nitrogen and phosphorus deposition can also impact plants’ reproductive performance. Here, we collected Taxus baccata L. seeds produced by the same genotype female plants grown in different nutritional regimes. We use them to analyze seed size and the impact of long-term fertilization on germination capacity and offspring traits. Our results show that long-term maternal fertilizer addition increases the ratio of large seeds produced, but at the same time decreases germination capacity compared to control and nonfertilized plants. Moreover, it was demonstrated that maternal environment impacts seed traits and germination rate, and seed mass rather than maternal environment impacts offspring performance. Therefore, the study provides information on how the maternal environment regulates seed traits and germination capacity as well as seedling growth to adapt to increased nitrogen and phosphorus deposition and improves prediction about plants’ response to global environmental changes.
Collapse
|
8
|
Zimbro ( Juniperus communis L.) as a Promising Source of Bioactive Compounds and Biomedical Activities: A Review on Recent Trends. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063197. [PMID: 35328621 PMCID: PMC8952110 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Plant-derived products and their extracted compounds have been used in folk medicine since early times. Zimbro or common juniper (Juniperus communis) is traditionally used to treat renal suppression, acute and chronic cystitis, bladder catarrh, albuminuria, leucorrhea, and amenorrhea. These uses are mainly attributed to its bioactive composition, which is very rich in phenolics, terpenoids, organic acids, alkaloids, and volatile compounds. In the last few years, several studies have analyzed the huge potential of this evergreen shrub, describing a wide range of activities with relevance in different biomedical discipline areas, namely antimicrobial potential against human pathogens and foodborne microorganisms, notorious antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, antidiabetic, antihypercholesterolemic and antihyperlipidemic effects, and neuroprotective action, as well as antiproliferative ability against cancer cells and the ability to activate inductive hepato-, renal- and gastroprotective mechanisms. Owing to these promising activities, extracts and bioactive compounds of juniper could be useful for the development of new pharmacological applications in the treatment of several acute and chronic human diseases.
Collapse
|
9
|
Seed Quantity or Quality?-Reproductive Responses of Females of Two Dioecious Woody Species to Long-Term Fertilisation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063187. [PMID: 35328608 PMCID: PMC8948795 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Although seed quality and quantity, as well as reproductive performance are important life history stages of plants, little is known about the reproductive responses of trees to environmental changes such as increased anthropogenic deposition of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). Dioecious plants are good models with which to test the environmental impact on female or male reproductive responses individually. We analysed effects of different long-term nutritional availability on the reproductive performance of two dioecious species (Taxus baccata L. and Juniperus communis L.) characterised by different life histories. By using pot experiments with vegetatively propagated plants grown in different fertilisation conditions, we observed an increase in plant growth and strobili production but a decrease in seed efficiency. Seeds produced by fertilised plants had greater seed mass. Fertiliser addition did not change C or N content nor the C/N ratio of T. baccata seeds, but increased N content and the N/P ratio; however, it did lower the C/N ratio in J. communis. Fertilisation did not change the metabolite profile in T. baccata but 18 metabolites were changed in J. communis. The study revealed new links between species life history, environmental changes, and reproduction. The findings imply that future environmental conditions may alter both seed productivity, and quality, as well as plant reproductive behaviour.
Collapse
|
10
|
Mohamed WA, Mansour MMA, Salem MZM, Ali HM, Böhm M. X-ray computed tomography (CT) and ESEM-EDS investigations of unusual subfossilized juniper cones. Sci Rep 2021; 11:22308. [PMID: 34785725 PMCID: PMC8595411 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01789-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent investigations of a Greco-Roman site at Sais have provided well-preserved archaeobotanical remains within a pile of metal fragments. The remains are compared with comparable modern taxa. The morphology and anatomy are studied using Light microscope (LM), Environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) and X-ray computed tomography (CT). To investigate the preservation mode, Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis and elemental mapping are conducted. Results revealed that the archaeobotanical remains are exhibiting close affinity with modern juniper cones. Although, the studied archaeobotanical remains are buried for more than 2 millenniums, they underwent early stages of silicification and copper mineralization. These results are discussed in relation to other excavated objects in the find and to our knowledge and understanding of daily life in the Greco-Roman period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wafaa A. Mohamed
- grid.7776.10000 0004 0639 9286Conservation Department, Faculty of Archaeology, Cairo University, Giza, 12613 Egypt
| | - Maisa M. A. Mansour
- grid.7776.10000 0004 0639 9286Conservation Department, Faculty of Archaeology, Cairo University, Giza, 12613 Egypt
| | - Mohamed Z. M. Salem
- grid.7155.60000 0001 2260 6941Forestry and Wood Technology Department, Faculty of Agriculture (EL-Shatby), Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21545 Egypt
| | - Hayssam M. Ali
- grid.56302.320000 0004 1773 5396Botany and Microbiology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451 Saudi Arabia
| | - Martin Böhm
- grid.6652.70000000121738213Department of Materials Engineering and Chemistry, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Czech Technical University in Prague, Thákurova 7, 166 29, Prague 6, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kormuťák A, Bolecek P, Galgóci M, Gömöry D. Longevity and germination of Juniperus communis L. pollen after storage. Sci Rep 2021; 11:12755. [PMID: 34140532 PMCID: PMC8211694 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-90942-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Pollen storage belongs among the most important activities associated with pollen handling. It overcomes the differences in pollen shedding and ovule receptivity during controlled pollination experiments. It is especially important for species like common juniper (Juniperus communis L.) with an extremely low quality of seeds due to pollination failure. Additionally, it is a substantial part of germplasm preservation programmes in pollen banks. In the present paper, the effect of short-term storage of pollen was studied using pollen samples from five shrubs in an in vitro germination test. Two temperature regimes were tested. The pollen viability of freshly collected pollen varied considerably between individual shrubs, exhibiting 67.3–88.6% germination rate and 248.0–367.3 µm of pollen tubes. Storage at + 4 °C for four months was accompanied by a profound decline in pollen viability. The germination percentage was reduced to 49.2–75.2% and the pollen tube length to 32.5–69.0%, depending on individual shrubs. The corresponding decline in pollen viability characteristics during storage at − 20 °C was only negligible in two of the tested shrubs. In the remaining three shrub samples, an increase in germination percentage was observed. Pollen tube growth responded more sensitively to freezing, but, on average, the decrease in length was lower than that at + 4 °C. The rate of reduction in pollen tube length varied between 11.5 and 45.4%. Cytological events accompanying in vitro germination of freezer-stored pollen exhibited some delay in releasing the exine from pollen grains during the early stages of germination as compared with freshly collected pollen. In conclusion, short-term storage of the common juniper pollen in a freezer is better for the preservation of its viability than storage at + 4 °C.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrej Kormuťák
- Plant Science and Biodiversity Center, Institute of Plant Genetics and Biotechnology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Akademická 2, P.O. Box 39A, 950 07, Nitra, Slovak Republic.
| | - Peter Bolecek
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Constantine Philosophy University in Nitra, A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Martin Galgóci
- Plant Science and Biodiversity Center, Institute of Plant Genetics and Biotechnology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Akademická 2, P.O. Box 39A, 950 07, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Dušan Gömöry
- Faculty of Forestry, Technical University in Zvolen, T. G. Masaryka 24, 960 53, Zvolen, Slovak Republic
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Gehrig R, Clot B. 50 Years of Pollen Monitoring in Basel (Switzerland) Demonstrate the Influence of Climate Change on Airborne Pollen. FRONTIERS IN ALLERGY 2021; 2:677159. [PMID: 35387022 PMCID: PMC8974697 DOI: 10.3389/falgy.2021.677159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Climate change and human impact on vegetation modify the timing and the intensity of the pollen season. The 50 years of pollen monitoring in Basel, Switzerland provide a unique opportunity to study long-term changes in pollen data. Since 1969, pollen monitoring has been carried out in Basel with a Hirst-type pollen trap. Pollen season parameters for start dates, end dates and duration were calculated with different pollen season definitions, which are commonly used in aerobiology. Intensity was analyzed by the annual pollen integral (APIn), peak value and the number of days above specific thresholds. Linear trends were calculated with the non-parametric Mann Kendall method with a Theil-Sen linear trend slope. During the last 50 years, linear increase of the monthly mean temperatures in Basel was 0.95–1.95°C in the 3 winter months, 2–3.7°C in spring months and 2.75–3.85°C in summer months. Due to this temperature increase, the start dates of the pollen season for most of the spring pollen species have advanced, from 7 days for Poaceae to 29 days for Taxus/Cupressaceae. End dates of the pollen season depend on the chosen pollen season definition. Negative trends predominate, i.e., the pollen season mostly ends earlier. Trends in the length of the pollen season depend even more on the season definitions and results are contradictory and often not significant. The intensity of the pollen season of almost all tree pollen taxa increased significantly, while the Poaceae pollen season did not change and the pollen season of herbs decreased, except for Urticaceae pollen. Climate change has a particular impact on the pollen season, but the definitions used for the pollen season parameters are crucial for the calculation of the trends. The most stable results were achieved with threshold definitions that indicate regular occurrence above certain concentrations. Percentage definitions are not recommended for trend studies when the annual pollen integral changed significantly.
Collapse
|
13
|
Effects of Supplement Irrigation and Nitrogen Application Levels on Soil Carbon–Nitrogen Content and Yield of One-Year Double Cropping Maize in Subtropical Region. WATER 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/w13091180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Inappropriate irrigation conditions and nitrogen application can negatively affect soil carbon–nitrogen content and yield of maize, as well as can lead to underground water pollution and soil degradation. A two year (2018, 2019) field experiment was carried out to determine the effect of irrigation and N, alone and in combination on maize grain yield, grain nitrogen content, soil inorganic N and MBC of one-year double cropping maize (Zea mays L.) in a subtropical region. Split plot design was adopted, with main plots consisting of two water regimes: drip irrigation (drip irrigation to keep soil water content no less than 70% of maximum field capacity) and rainfed (no irrigation during growing period). Split-plot treatments consisted of five nitrogen application levels, including 0 (N0), 150 (N150), 200 (N200), 250 (N250), and 300 kg/ha (N300). The results of two-year field experiment showed that soil irrigation nitrogen interaction had a significant influence on the all measured parameters. In detail, soil NH4+-N and NO3−-N content, total nitrogen (TN), soil organic carbon (SOC) and grain nitrogen contents under the combined treatment of N250 and supplementary irrigation were higher relative to other treatments. Compared with rainfed, maize yield, thousand grains weight (TGW) and harvest index increased by 22.0%, 7.7%, and 15.2% under supplemental irrigation. Yield and TGW N300 were 287 kg/ha and 3.1 g higher than those of N250, and yield and TGW of N250 were 59.4% and 23.1% higher than those of N0, respectively. The yield of spring maize was 24.0% significantly higher than that of autumn maize. Therefore, we suggested that 250 kg/ha nitrogen application fertilizer combined with supplementary irrigation can improve soil fertility and annual maize yield in subtropical one-year double cropping region.
Collapse
|
14
|
Jacquemart AL, Buyens C, Delescaille LM, Van Rossum F. Using genetic evaluation to guide conservation of remnant Juniperus communis (Cupressaceae) populations. PLANT BIOLOGY (STUTTGART, GERMANY) 2021; 23:193-204. [PMID: 32991026 DOI: 10.1111/plb.13188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Many critically endangered plant species exist in small, genetically depauperate or inbred populations, making assisted gene flow interventions necessary for long-term population viability. However, before such interventions are implemented, conservation practitioners must consider the genetic and demographic status of extant populations, which are strongly affected by species' life-history traits. In northwestern Europe, Juniperus communis, a dioecious, wind-pollinated and bird-dispersed gymnosperm, has been declining for the past century and largely exists in small, isolated and senescent populations. To provide useful recommendations for a recovery plan involving translocation of plants, we investigated genetic diversity and structure of populations in Belgium using four microsatellite and five plastid single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. We detected no clonality in the populations, suggesting predominantly sexual reproduction. Populations exhibited high genetic diversity (He = 0.367-0.563) and low to moderate genetic differentiation (FST ≤ 0.133), with no clear geographic structure. Highly positive inbreeding coefficients (FIS = 0.221-0.507) were explained by null alleles, population substructuring and biparental inbreeding. No isolation by distance was observed among distant populations, but isolation at close geographic proximity was found. Patterns were consistent with high historical gene flow through pollen and seed dispersal at both short and long distances. We also tested four pre-germination treatments among populations to improve germination rates; however, germination rates remained low and only cold-stratification treatments induced germination in some populations. To bolster population regeneration, introductions of cuttings from several source populations are recommended, in combination with in situ management practices that improve seedling survival and with ex situ propagation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A-L Jacquemart
- Earth and Life Institute-Agronomy - UCLouvain, Croix du Sud 2, Box L7.05.14, B-1348, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - C Buyens
- Earth and Life Institute-Agronomy - UCLouvain, Croix du Sud 2, Box L7.05.14, B-1348, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - L-M Delescaille
- Direction générale opérationnelle Agriculture, Ressources naturelles et Environnement (DGARNE), Département de l'Etude du Milieu naturel et agricole (DEMNA), Avenue Maréchal Juin 23, B-5030, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - F Van Rossum
- Meise Botanic Garden, Nieuwelaan 38, B-1860, Meise, Belgium
- Fédération Wallonie-Bruxelles, Rue A. Lavallée 1, B-1080, Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Lazare S, Lyu Y, Yermiyahu U, Heler Y, Kalyan G, Dag A. The Effect of Macronutrient Availability on Pomegranate Reproductive Development. PLANTS 2020; 9:plants9080963. [PMID: 32751562 PMCID: PMC7465911 DOI: 10.3390/plants9080963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Pomegranate cultivation has expanded significantly in the last two decades. However, there is limited information on its fertilization requirements and the effect of macronutrient availability on its reproductive development. Two commercial pomegranate cultivars—“Wonderful” and “Emek”—were grown in 500-L containers for 3 years, using a fertigation system. Development and reproduction indices were measured to explore the trees’ responses to elevated levels of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in the irrigation solution. Andromonoecy rate was affected by nutrient levels only in the first year of the experiment, with higher levels of N and P leading to a greater proportion of hermaphrodites out of total flowers. P level had a positive effect on the total number of hermaphrodites per tree in both varieties. Differences recorded between hermaphroditic and staminate flowers included nutrient concentrations and dry weight. Fruit set and aril number were positively affected by N concentration in the irrigation solution. We conclude that only a severe deficiency of N and P affects the andromonoecy trait, and that at the levels examined in this study, K hardly influences pomegranate reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silit Lazare
- Gilat Research Center, Agricultural Research Organization, The Volcani Center, M.P. Negev 85280, Gilat, Israel; (Y.L.); (U.Y.); (Y.H.); (A.D.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Yang Lyu
- Gilat Research Center, Agricultural Research Organization, The Volcani Center, M.P. Negev 85280, Gilat, Israel; (Y.L.); (U.Y.); (Y.H.); (A.D.)
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Uri Yermiyahu
- Gilat Research Center, Agricultural Research Organization, The Volcani Center, M.P. Negev 85280, Gilat, Israel; (Y.L.); (U.Y.); (Y.H.); (A.D.)
| | - Yehuda Heler
- Gilat Research Center, Agricultural Research Organization, The Volcani Center, M.P. Negev 85280, Gilat, Israel; (Y.L.); (U.Y.); (Y.H.); (A.D.)
- Institute of Plant Sciences and Genetics in Agriculture, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7628604, Israel
| | | | - Arnon Dag
- Gilat Research Center, Agricultural Research Organization, The Volcani Center, M.P. Negev 85280, Gilat, Israel; (Y.L.); (U.Y.); (Y.H.); (A.D.)
| |
Collapse
|