Abstract
In order to clarify the cause of forming one-seeded pods in Bambarra groudnut (Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdec.) and processes of the developments of both embryosac and embryo were studied by embryolog-ical and anatomical investigations. The variety used was cv. Bo from Indonesia. The results obtained are summarized as follows:
1.Flower clusters were distinguished from shoot apex at 12 days before anthesis. Thereafter, the flower bud developed and reached the final size of flower 1 day before anthesis.
2.At the time of anthesis, average size of ovary was 1.07×0.49mm. In each ovary, two ovules were found, one in the lower part and another in the upper part. No difference was found between the both ovules in the process of the development of embryosac.
3.Double fertilizations were observed in embryosac at one day after anthesis. First cell divisions of zygote and endosperm nuclei occurred at 3 days after anthesis, and ball type pro-embryo developed at 5 days after anthesis without any difference between the lower and upper ovules.
4.Seven days after anthesis, however, little difference between the lower and upper ovules was recognized. Thereafter, the upper ovule continued to grow and matured (seed) at the 70 days after anthesis, while the lower ovule still in the state of ball type pro-embryo.
