Cytomixis in meiosis during the microsporogenesis of ophrys lutea: An ultrastructural study

Abstract

The ultrastructural study of microsporogenesis in Ophrys lutea revealed that the formation of cytomictic channels in the callose wall was followed by the transfer of organelles and chromatin (cytomixis) through them. The transfer of chromatin was first observed on zygo-pachytene, and throughout the other stages of prophase I. Even though restricted to some nuclear areas, cytomixis was observed at different stages of chromatin condensation. Some abnormalities were detected as a consequence of cytomixis. The significance of cytomixis as a possible meiotic event is discussed. © 1989 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.