Light Microscopic Observations on Pollen and Anther in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) : II. Stages from early microspore to mature pollen

Abstract

Development of pollen cells as well as the fate of tapetal cells were studied by the glycol methacrylate semithin method for light microscopy. Sections including artificially produced images of pollen cells were eliminated and some probale backgrounds of these images were discussed. The spatial close interrelationship between developing pollen and tapetal cells was found to be maintained up to mature pollen. Germ pore was observed mostly pointing toward the tapetal side instead of being constantly appressed tapetum. Degeneration of the tapetum seemed to be related to the development of microspore. Storage process of engorged pollen and easy release of mature pollen were seen to be accompanied by probable water decrease in the anther loculus.