STERILITY IN ALLIUM ROYLEI STEARN – A LESSER EXPLORED TAXON

Abstract

Plants of Allium roylei Stearn, a threatened taxon of North – West Himalayas studied are complex translocation heterozygotes. Structural alterations imposed thereby on the chromosomes adversely affect the reproductive features of the species. Pollen grains formed share variable number of chromosomes ranging from 1 to 8 instead of the normal. This drastically acts down their siring potential by rendering them non – viable. Despite being a prolific flower producer, the fruits and seeds set are negligible. Whatever little seed is formed, it does not germinate properly nor does it transform into a healthy plant.