Pollen wall structure of the new zealand species of epacris (epacridaceae)

Abstract

Pollen of the two New Zealand species of Epacris (E. alpina and E. pauciflora) was examined by light, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy. Mature pollen forms permanent, tetrahedral, synexinous tetrads, individual grains adhering by fusion of adjacent tecta and footlayers. Both species have an extensive endocrack system which is especially well developed. In the region of the ectocolpus. Endocracks probably function as pre-formed hmge hnes which assist and structure the collapse of the tetrad under harmomegathic stress.© 1978 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.