Pollination events in nigella sativa l.(BLACK CUMIN)

Abstract

The pollination events in Nigella sativa Family: Ranunculaceae; common name: black cumin; significant plant species for therapeutic uses and possessing spice yielding property) has been studied in relation to floral morphology, consequences of pollination types on reproductive parameters, types of visitors (Apis dorsata Fabr.-honeybees; Coccinella transversalis Fabr.-lady bug, Danaux plexippus L.-butterfly and Colletes succinctus L.-wasp) and flower color changes from bud to blooming stage. Honeybees are the predominant pollinators. Pollination is of 'generalized type'. The study has provided insight on the effective mode of pollination in the species maximizing seed yield.