Silva et al. 2025 (Article) Reproduction, Hohenbergia, Brazil

Reproductive systems of Hohenbergia Schult. & Schult.f. (Bromelioideae: Bromeliaceae) endemic to the Atlantic forest

Author(s):—T.A.d. Silva, B.P. Cavalcante, A.C.A. Fagundes, G.Q.S.d.S. Nascimento, L.Y.S. Aona, F.V.D. Souza, M.A.P.C. Costa & E.H. Souza

Publication:—Nordic Journal of Botany n/a(n/a): e04820. (2025) — DOI

Abstract:—Many species of the Bromeliaceae are under threat due to the fragmentation and anthropogenic pressure affecting the Atlantic Forest highlight the need to conservation efforts. The genus Hohenbergia deserves special attention in this context, as the Hohenbergia stellata complex includes endemic species that rely on diverse reproductive strategies, which are essential for their maintenance and diversification. Research on the reproductive systems of these species is crucial for understanding their adaptability and developing effective conservation strategies. This study aimed to investigate the reproductive systems of species within the Hohenbergia stellata complex, analyzing the potential occurrence of reproductive barriers and their reliance on cross-pollination. The pollen-to-ovule ratio was assessed, along with various methods for evaluating reproductive systems in H. amargosensis, H. belemii, H. capitata, H. ituberaensis, H. nidularioides, H. rosea, and H. stellata. Hohenbergia capitata and H. nidularioides are partially self-compatible species, while the others are self-incompatible. All of them reproduce through cross-pollination, with a greater number of seeds produced by natural pollination. The data on the reproductive aspects of Hohenbergia species are essential to support strategies aimed at the breeding and conservation of these species.

Keywords:—breeding systems, bromeliads, conservation, fertilization, reproductive barriers, sexual reproduction