CYTOPLASMIC RESERVES IN GENERATIVE AND VEGETATIVE CELLS OF HERMODACTYLUS TUBEROSUS MILL.: CYTOCHEMISTRY, ESI AND EELS ANALYSES

This study uses cytochemical tests, electron spectroscopic imaging and electron energy loss spectroscopy techniques to identify and localize the reserves inside the generative cell of Hermodactylus tuberosus pollen. Cytochemical probes applied to sections observed by light and transmission electron microscopy indicated that the generative cell contains large osmiophilic bodies probably made of phytic acid rich in P and Ca. The significance of the rich granulations in generative cells of Hermodactylus pollen is discussed in relation to floral biology and environmental conditions. In comparison, the vegetative cytoplasm contains (a) lipid droplets formed by unsaturated lipids and related to vacuoles, (b) lipid bodies with larger dimensions, irregular in shape and very rich in Ca, (c) bodies stained in polysaccharide tests as well as lipid probes tentatively identified as glycolipid granulations, and (d) small granules very rich in P and Ca interpreted as phytin granules.