Next Article in Journal
Photo-Protective Mechanisms and the Role of Poly (ADP-Ribose) Polymerase Activity in a Facultative CAM Plant Exposed to Long-Term Water Deprivation
Previous Article in Journal
The Chemical and Biological Profiles of Leaves from Commercial Blueberry Varieties
 
 
Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
Journals
Plants
Volume 9
Issue 9
10.3390/plants9091194
plants-logo
Submit to this Journal Review for this Journal Propose a Special Issue
► Article Menu

Article Menu

share Share announcement Help format_quote Cite question_answer Discuss in SciProfiles thumb_up
...
Endorse textsms
...
Comment
first_page
settings
Order Article Reprints
Font Type:
Arial Georgia Verdana
Font Size:
Aa Aa Aa
Line Spacing:
Column Width:
Background:
Article

Comparison of the Micromorphology and Ultrastructure of Pollen Grains of Selected Rubus idaeus L. Cultivars Grown in Commercial Plantation

by
Mikołaj Kostryco
,
Mirosława Chwil
* and
Renata Matraszek-Gawron
Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 15 Street, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Plants 2020, 9(9), 1194; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9091194
Submission received: 7 August 2020 / Revised: 4 September 2020 / Accepted: 10 September 2020 / Published: 12 September 2020
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Cell Biology)
Browse Figures
Versions Notes

Abstract

:
The genus Rubus is one of the largest taxonomically diverse and complex genera in the family Rosaceae. Morphology of pollen grains (equatorial and polar axes length, shape and size, aperture position, exine sculpture, perforations) is regarded as one of its main diagnostic features for identification of species and varieties. An attempt was made to fill the gap concerning the pollen micromorphology and ultrastructure of R. idaeus L. using light, scanning, and electron transmission microscopy. This study is a comparative analysis of micromorphological and ultrastructural traits of pollen from six raspberry cultivars. The pollen grains were classified as small or medium of shape prolato-spheroids. The parallel striae in the equatorial view in the exine sculpture were sometimes branched dichotomously in ‘Glen Ample’, ‘Polka’, and ‘Polana’, arcuate in ‘Laszka’ and ‘Pokusa’, or irregularly overlapping in ‘Radziejowa’. The width of exine striae of biennial fruiting cultivars was much larger than in repeated fruiting cultivars. In terms of the increasing number of perforations per unit area of the exine surface, the cultivars were ranked as follows: ‘Pokusa’ < ‘Glen Ample’ < ‘Laszka’ < ‘Polka’ < ‘Polana’ < ‘Radziejowa’. The thickest tectum, the highest and thickest columellae with the largest distances between them, and the thicker foot layer were demonstrated in ‘Glen Ample’. The ectoexine constituted on average ca. 78–90% of the exine thickness. The findings may constitute auxiliary traits i.a. for identification of related taxa, interpretation of phylogenetic relationships, and pollination biology.

Graphical Abstract

1. Introduction

Rubus is one of the largest genera in the family Rosaceae [1,2,3,4,5,6]. Representatives of the genus have been classified into twelve subgenera: Anaplobatus, Chamaebatus, Chamarmorus, Comaropsis, Cylactis, Dalibarda, Dalibardastrum, Ildaeobatus, Malachobatus, Micranthobatus, Orobatus, and Rubus [3].

1.1. Genus Rubus in the Flora of Poland

In the flora of Poland, Rubus plants represent several subgenera: Idaeobatus, Cylactis, Chamaerobus, Anoplobatus, and Rubus. The subgenus Idaeobatus comprises, e.g., the raspberry (R. idaeus L.) with red fruits and the Chinese raspberry (R. xanthocarpus Bureau. et Franch.) with yellow fruits. The second and third subgenera mentioned include herbaceous plants. One of the species of the subgenus Cylactis is the stone bramble (R. saxatilis L.) with red fruits. In turn, the genus Chamaerobus is represented by the cloudberry (R. chamaemorus L.) with yellow fruits, which is under strict species protection. Blackberries are representatives of the last two genera mentioned above. The purple-flowered blackberry (R. odoratus L.) belongs to Anoplobatus, and the genus Rubus comprises, e.g., the four most frequent species in the country, i.e., R. plicatus Weihe and Nees, R. hiatus Waldst. and Kit., R. caessius L., and R. nessensis Hall [3,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14]. In Poland, R. idaeus L. is the most common species of the genus Rubus. Rubus shrubs grow in forests and their margins and in roadside thickets [12,13]. The species has many cultivars used for home-garden cultivation and commercial production [15,16,17,18,19,20,21].

1.2. Economic Importance

Given the commercial production of its fruit, Rubus idaeus has considerable economic importance in Europe and Poland [22,23,24,25,26,27]. Raspberry fruit is intended either for direct consumption or for processing in many industries: food [20,28,29,30,31], pharmaceutical [20,28,32,33], cosmetic [28,30,33,34,35,36], and nanotechnological [37,38,39,40] industries. Raspberry shrubs are a source of medicinal and cosmetic raw materials, i.e., Rubi idaeus fructus [41,42,43,44,45] and Rubi idaeus folium [20,46,47,48]. In early spring, abundantly flowering inflorescences provide nectar and pollen reward for pollinating insects, including the honeybee [49,50]. Raspberry nectar and pollen constitute an important ingredient of bee products [51,52].

1.3. Morphology of Pollen from the Subfamily Rosoideae

The genus Rubus is taxonomically complex and exhibits high morphological diversity. The characterization and infrageneric classification of its species are complicated by frequent processes of hybridization, polyploidy, and agamospermy [53,54,55,56,57,58]. Although some species from the Rosaceae family are stenopalynous plants, e.g., Rubus and Potentilla, [59,60,61,62], they vary in the structure of pollen grains, which are used as indicators of taxonomic affiliation [60,63,64,65,66].
Pollen grains in plants from the subfamily Rosoideae represent the tricolpate-porate type [67,68,69,70,71,72,73]. The exine of pollen grains in, e.g., Alchemilla occidentalis, Amelanchier alnifolia, Aruncus sylvester, Chamaerhodos erecta, and various species of the genus Rubus bears perforations [59,63,64,74,75,76].
The following shapes of pollen grains were noted in some species of the genus Rubus: perpolate, oblato-spheroides, perprolate, prolate, prolato-spheroides, prolatum, spheroidal, subprolatum, and subspheroidal [65,72,73,74,75,76,77,78,79].
The exine in various species from the subfamily Rosoideae was found to have mainly striate or reticulate sculpture [59,66,77,80,81,82]. The striate sculpture exhibited a varied degree of development of muri. The striae were found to form various patterns: distinctly striate (Agrimonia grosephala, Rubus gracilis), delicately reticulate to slightly striate (Agrimonia strata, Rosa canina), slightly striate or rugulate (Chamaerhodos erecta), scabrate to slightly striate (Amelanchier alnifolia), coarsely striate (Aruncus sylvester), or striate-rugulate (Fragaria rubicola) [63,69]. In other taxa, the sculpture was echinate (Agrimonia eupatoria), rugulate (Agrimonia grosephala), scabrate (Alchemilla ypsilotoma), or slightly scabrate (Alchemilla occidentalis) [63,69]. In turn, four exine patterns were distinguished in plants of the genus Rubus: rugulate, striate, cerebroid, and perforate-reticulate together with 11 subtypes: rugulate-subpsilate, rugulate-striate, rugulate-perforate, striate, striate-perforate, striate-reticulate, cerebroid, cerebroid-perforate, perforate, perforate-reticulate, and reticulate [77].
The striate sculpture in numerous species of this genus exhibited varied arrangement of muri in relation to the corpus: perpendicular (R. armeniacus, R. gracilis, R. laciniatus, R. pedemontanus, R. fabrimontanus), parallel (R. hirtus), longitudinal (R. apricus, R. divaricatus, R. nessensis), and meandering (R. apricus) [64]. Zhou et al. [83] have reported that the exine sculpture in the subfamily Rosoideae is the most complex of all subfamilies of Rosaceae.
The molecular regulation of sporopollenin biosynthesis determines the proper formation of the sculpture pattern in pollen grains. The exine provides pollen grains with structural, physical, chemical, and biological protection. Its durability and stability are determined by the presence of sporopollenin [84].
Sporopollenin is a mixture of organic biopolymers [85,86]. The presence of sporopollenin in the exine reduces the bioavailability of nutrients contained in pollen by approximately 50% [87]. Damage to the exine induced by the process of grinding grains resulted in an increase in the digestibility and biological activity of nutrients associated with the increased content of polyphenols. These compounds contributed to an 11-fold increase in antioxidant activity, hence the higher potential of pollen for medical, dietary, and cosmetic use [88].
Many reports indicate that the traits of pollen grain morphology, e.g., the length of the equatorial and polar axes, shape and size of grains, position of the aperture, exine sculpture, and structure of perforations, are important standard taxonomic indicators for identification of species and varieties [73,89,90,91,92,93,94,95,96]. These parameters represent the main diagnostic features for classification of many plant species [59,63,70,76,90,92,97,98,99,100,101,102,103]. This is also confirmed by ecological, geographical, and genetic research [73,96,104,105]. There is only fragmentary information in the literature about the morphology of R. idaeus pollen grains visualized by bright field microscopy and sparse data on the micromorphology of grains revealed by scanning electron microscopy. There are no scientific reports on the ultrastructure of R. idaeus pollen grains. Similarly, there is no information about pollen grains of raspberry cultivars based on the results from light, scanning electron, and electron transmission microscopy. Therefore, the present study is an attempt to extend the knowledge in this field.
The aim of the study was to conduct comparative analyses of the diagnostic micromorphological traits (the length of the polar and equatorial axes, the size and shape of pollen grains, the exine sculpture, and topography: striae, perforations, microstructures). The study was also aimed at description of the ultrastructural features with analysis of the ecto- and endoexine (thickness of the tectum and foot layer, and the height, thickness, and distance between columellae), the intine, and the protoplast in pollen grains of six Rubus idaeus L. cultivars: ‘Glen Ample’, ‘Laszka’, ‘Radziejowa’, ‘Pokusa’, ‘Polka’, and ‘Polana’, which are commonly cultivated for commercial purposes in Poland and Europe.

2. Results

2.1. Micromorphology of Pollen Grains

The anthers of the R. idaeus flowers released pollen grains in the bud burst phase. Most of the anthers released pollen on the first and second day of flowering.

2.1.1. Size and Shape of Pollen Grains

The pollen grains of the R. idaeus cultivars represent the tricolporate type. The length of the polar (P) and equatorial (E) axes in the pollen grains from the biennial fruiting cultivars ranged from 23.8 (‘Radziejowa’) to 28.3 µm (‘Laszka’) and from 21.4 (‘Radziejowa’) to 27 µm (‘Radziejowa’), respectively. In the other group of the cultivars, the mean length of the polar axis in ‘Pokusa’, ‘Polana’, and ‘Polka’ was in the range of 25.4 (‘Polana’)–29.5 µm (‘Polka’). In turn, the length of the equatorial axis ranged from 22.8 (‘Polana’) to 28.6 µm (‘Polka’). Based on the size of the longer axis of the sporomorphs in the R. idaeus cultivars, the pollen grains from the first group of cultivars were classified as small and medium, but they were medium in the second group. The mean value of the calculated shape coefficient P/E indicated that the pollen grains of the analyzed cultivars represented prolato-spheroides in terms of the shape (P/E=1.01–1.14). Additionally, as indicated by the value of this coefficient in the subsequent years of the study, a part of prolato-spheroides shape, pollen grains of subprolatum shape (P/E = 1.17) were detected in ‘Laszka’, ‘Polana’, and ‘Polka’ (Table 1).

2.1.2. Exine Sculpture

The examined R. idaeus cultivars had a striated exine with visible perforations (Figure 1A–F, Figure 2A–F, Figure 3A–F, Figure 4A–F, Figure 5A–F, Figure 6A–F). In the polar view, the pollen grains had a triangular outline. There were colpi and pori in the equatorial plane. The colpi were arranged longitudinally. The striae formed a cultivar-specific pattern. On the surface of the apocolpium, they were arranged side by side with a delicate arcuate curve in ‘Glen Ample’, ‘Radziejowa’, and ‘Polka’ (Figure 1A, Figure 3A, Figure 6A). They were arranged in parallel in ‘Laszka’ and ‘Polana’ (Figure 2A, Figure 5A) or intertwined in ‘Pokusa’ (Figure 4A) towards the mesocolpium.
In the equatorial view, the pollen grains had an elliptical shape (Figure 1C, Figure 2C, Figure 3C, Figure 4C, Figure 5C, Figure 6C). The muri were arranged along the polar axis. On the mesocolpium surface, the striae in the exine sculpture in all cultivars were arranged side by side; they were sometimes dichotomously branched in ‘Glen Ample’, ‘Polka’, and ‘Polana’ (Figure 1C,D, Figure 4C,D, Figure 5C,D), arcuate in ‘Laszka’ and ‘Pokusa’ (Figure 2C,D, Figure 6C,D), or irregularly arranged and overlapping in ‘Radziejowa’ (Figure 3C). The colpi in the analyzed pollen grains were long and almost reached the poles (Figure 1E, Figure 2E, Figure 3E, Figure 4E, Figure 5E, Figure 6E).
Striae. The width of the striae in the exine varied (Figure 1D, Figure 2D, Figure 3D, Figure 4D, Figure 5D, Figure 6D). The parameter ranged from 248 (‘Radziejowa’) to 417 nm (‘Glen Ample’) in the biennial fruiting cultivars and from 156 (‘Polka’) to 203 nm (‘Polana’) in the other group. The largest and smallest distance between muri in the biennial fruiting cultivars was found in ‘Radziejowa’ (786 nm) and ‘Laszka’ (574 nm), respectively. This parameter of the exine of cultivars with repeated fruiting ranged from 440 nm in ‘Polka’ to 686 nm in ‘Pokusa’. The width of muri in exine of ‘Glen Ample’ was significantly larger than in ‘Laszka’ and ‘Radziejowa’. The distance between muri was significantly lower in ‘Laszka’ than in ‘Glen Ample’ and ‘Radziejowa’. Width of muri in the repeated fruiting cultivars was significantly larger in ‘Polana’ than in ‘Pokusa’ and ‘Polka’, and the distance between muri in ‘Pokusa’ was significantly greater than in ‘Polana’ and ‘Polka’.
The number of striae per 10 µm2 of the exine ranged from 8 (‘Glen Ample’) to 11 (‘Laszka’, ‘Radziejowa’) in the biennial fruiting cultivars and from 11 (‘Pokusa’, ‘Polana’) to 13 (‘Polka’) in the repeated fruiting cultivars. The statistical analysis revealed that the number of muri in exine of ‘Glen Ample’ was significantly lower than in ‘Laszka’ (Table 2).
Perforations. The perforations in the exine had a spherical or elliptical outline and a varied diameter (Figure 1B,D,E, Figure 2B,D,E, Figure 3B,D,E, Figure 4B,D,E, Figure 5B,D,E, Figure 6B,D,E). These perforations were very small, medium-sized, or large. In the biennial fruiting cultivars, the smallest diameter of the large perforations was found in ‘Glen Ample’ (118–152 nm) and the biggest diameter was exhibited by ‘Laszka’ (249–324 nm). In turn, the smallest and biggest values of this parameter in the cultivars with repeated fruiting were measured in ‘Polka’ (131–173 nm) and ‘Polana’ (194–269 nm), respectively. In the group of the biennial fruiting cultivars, the diameter of perforations in the tectum of ‘Glen Ample’ was significantly lower than in ‘Radziejowa’ and ‘Laszka’. The value of the parameter in the second group cultivars was significantly lower in ‘Polka’ than in ‘Pokusa’ and ‘Polana’. As shown by the comparative analysis of the biennial and repeated fruiting cultivars, the ‘Glen Ample’ cultivar had a comparable diameter of perforations to that in ‘Polka’ and a significantly lower value than in ‘Laszka’, ‘Radziejowa’, ‘Pokusa’, and ‘Polana’ (Table 3). Perforations in the colpi were usually arranged in series and sometimes formed two rows or were scattered irregularly (Figure 1B,D,E, Figure 2B,D,E, Figure 3B,D,E, Figure 4B,D,E, Figure 5B,D,E, Figure 6B,D,E).
The number of perforations in a 2-μm long colpus fragment in the examined cultivars was similar (except in the exine of ‘Pokusa’ pollen) and ranged from 5 (‘Glen Ample’) to 7 (‘Polka’). In turn, there were 39–92 perforations per 10 µm2 of the exine surface. Considering the increasing number of perforations per exine unit area, the cultivars were ranked as follows (perforations/10 µm2): ‘Pokusa’ (39) < ‘Glen Ample’ (59) < ‘Laszka’ (65) < ‘Polka’ (72) < ‘Polana’ (75) < ‘Radziejowa’ (92). In the group of the biennial fruiting cultivars, the number of perforations in the tectum of ‘Radziejowa’ was significantly higher than the value of this parameter in ‘Glen Ample’ and ‘Laszka’. The value of this parameter in pollen grains of ‘Pokusa’, i.e., a repeated fruiting cultivar, was significantly lower than in ‘Polana’ and ‘Polka’. The comparison of the biennial and repeated fruiting cultivars showed a significantly lower number of perforations per 10 µm2 of exine than in the other cultivars (Table 3).

2.2. Ultrastructure of Pollen Grains

2.2.1. Pollen Grain Cell Wall

The transmission electron microscopy observations revealed morphometric differences in the structure of the elements of the ectoexine (tectum, columellae, foot layer) and the endoexine and intine between some of the R. idaeus cultivars examined.
Tectum. A perforated tectum was observed in the exine of the cell wall of pollen grains in the biennial fruiting cultivars (Figure 7A, Figure 8A,B, Figure 9A) and in the repeated fruiting cultivars (Figure 10B, Figure 12B). The thickness of this layer in both groups was in the range of 209 (‘Laszka’)–431 nm (‘Glen Ample’) and 228 (‘Pokusa’)–308 nm (‘Polana’), respectively. In the group of the biennial fruiting cultivars, pollen grains of ‘Glen Ample’ was characterized by a significantly higher value of the thickness of the tectum in comparison with ‘Laszka’ and ‘Radziejowa’, whereas no significant differences in this parameter were found in the group of repeated fruiting cultivars. The comparative analysis between the biennial and repeated fruiting cultivars demonstrated that the ‘Glen Ample’ exine had a significantly higher thickness of the tectum than the other cultivars, with statistically confirmed differences between the ‘Polana’ and ‘Laszka’. The thickness of the tectum was significantly higher in ‘Polana’ than in ‘Laszka’ (Table 4). Electron-dense spherical pollenkitt was visible on the surface of the tectum and between the columellae of the middle layer (Figure 7B, Figure 8B, Figure 10B, Figure 11A, Figure 12A).
Middle layer. The height of columellae in the ectoexine in the six analyzed raspberry cultivars ranged from 299 (‘Laszka’) to 403 nm (‘Glen Ample’). The thickness of the columellae was in the range from 208 (‘Pokusa’) to 261 nm (‘Polana’). The distance between adjacent columellae in the biennial fruiting cultivars group ranged from 297 (‘Laszka’) to 407 nm (‘Glen Ample’) nm, while in the group of cultivars with repeating fruits from 321 (‘Pokusa’) to 339 nm (‘Polana’). In the group of the biennial fruiting cultivars, ‘Glen Ample’ had a significantly greater distance between the columellae than ‘Laszka’ and ‘Radziejowa’ (Table 4).
Foot layer. The foot layer had an irregular outline on the side of columellae and tightly adhered to the endoexine (Figure 7B, Figure 8A, Figure 9B, Figure 10A, Figure 11A, Figure 12F). This band was the thinnest of the three structural ectoexine layers. Its thickness in the wall of pollen grains of the six analyzed cultivars varied. The value of this parameter ranged from 78 (‘Laszka’) to 149 nm (‘Glen Ample’) in the first group of cultivars and from 109 (‘Pokusa’) to 133 nm (‘Polka’) in the other group. As shown by the statistical analysis performed in the group of the biennial fruiting cultivars, ‘Glen Ample’ was characterized by a significantly higher value of the thickness of the foot layer in comparison with ‘Radziejowa’. In turn, the value of this parameter in ‘Radziejowa’ was significantly higher than in ‘Laszka’. In the group of the repeated fruiting cultivars, the thickness of the foot layer in the ‘Polka’ cultivar was significantly higher than the value of this parameter in ‘Pokusa’ and ‘Polana’. The comparative analysis of the biennial and repeated fruiting cultivars revealed that the thickness of the foot layer in ‘Glen Ample’ and ‘Polka’ was significantly lower than in ‘Radziejowa’, ‘Pokusa’, and ‘Polana’, but the value of the parameter in these three cultivars was significantly higher than that in ‘Laszka’ (Table 4).
The tectum layer, columellae, and foot layer described in the six analyzed cultivars formed an ectoexine with a thickness in the range from 586 nm (‘Laszka’) to 982 nm (‘Glen Ample’). These values accounted for on average 89–92% of the exine thickness (662–1072 nm). As indicated by the statistical analysis performed in the group of the biennial fruiting cultivars, ‘Glen Ample’ exhibited a significantly higher value of the ectoexine and exine thickness than ‘Laszka’ and ‘Radziejowa’. In turn, in the group of the repeated fruiting cultivars, ‘Pokusa’ had a significantly lower exine thickness value than ‘Polana’ and ‘Polka’. The comparative analysis of both cultivar groups revealed a significantly higher value of the ectoexine and exine thickness in ‘Glen Ample’ than that in the other cultivars. ‘Laszka’, ‘Radziejowa’, and ‘Pokusa’ were characterized by significantly lower ectoexine thickness than ‘Polana’ and ‘Polka’. Furthermore, the ‘Polana’ and ‘Polka’ cultivars had a significantly higher value of exine thickness than ‘Laszka’ and ‘Radziejowa’, and the exine thickness in ‘Polka’ was higher than in ‘Pokusa’. Simultaneously, the endoexine thickness in ‘Polka’ was significantly higher than in the other cultivars (Table 5).
Endoexine. The endoexine layer in the pollen grains of the studied cultivars ranged from 76 nm ‘Laszka’ to 108 nm ‘Polka’. The ultrastructural study of the cross-sections of the pollen grains of the analyzed cultivars showed that the layer had a regular outline. This electron dense layer was darker than the lighter structural elements of the ectoexine and the unstained intine (Figure 7A,B, Figure 8A,B, Figure 9B, Figure 10A, Figure 12B). The increasing thickness of the exine in the pollen grains ranked the cultivars as follows: ‘Laszka’ < ‘Radziejowa’ < ‘Pokusa’ < ‘Polka’ < ‘Polana’ < ‘Glen Ample’. As indicated by the statistical analysis performed in the group of the biennial fruiting cultivars, ‘Glen Ample’ exhibited a significantly higher value of the ectoexine and exine thickness than ‘Laszka’ and ‘Radziejowa’. In turn, in the group of the repeated fruiting cultivars, ‘Pokusa’ had a significantly lower exine thickness value than ‘Polana’ and ‘Polka’. The comparative analysis of both cultivar groups revealed a significantly higher value of the ectoexine and exine thickness in ‘Glen Ample’ than that in the other cultivars. ‘Laszka’, ‘Radziejowa’, and ‘Pokusa’ were characterized by significantly lower ectoexine thickness than ‘Polana’ and ‘Polka’. Furthermore, the ‘Polana’ and ‘Polka’ had a significantly higher value of exine thickness than ‘Laszka’ and ‘Radziejowa’, and the exine thickness in ‘Polka’ was higher than in ‘Pokusa’. Simultaneously, the endoexine thickness in ‘Polka’ was significantly higher than in the other cultivars (Table 5).
Intine. The thickness of the intine layer in the pollen grains of the studied cultivars varied. This layer in the biennial fruiting cultivars was the thinnest in ‘Laszka’ (317 nm) and the thickest in ‘Glen Ample’ (498 nm). In turn, in the group of repeated fruiting cultivars, the thickness of this layer ranged from 229 nm (‘Polka’) to 541 nm (‘Polana’). The thickness of the intine layer accounted for 21–38% of the thickness of pollen grains cells (979–1570 nm). In the group of the biennial fruiting cultivars, pollen grains of ‘Glen Ample’ exhibited a significantly higher value of intine and cell wall thickness in comparison with ‘Radziejowa’ and ‘Laszka’. In the repeated fruiting cultivars, the intine and cell wall thickness was significantly higher than these parameters in the ‘Pokusa’ and ‘Polka’. The comparative analysis of the biennial and repeated fruiting cultivars revealed a significantly higher value of the intine and cell wall thickness in ‘Glen Ample’ and ‘Polana’ in comparison with the other cultivars. The intine thickness in ‘Radziejowa’ and ‘Laszka’ was significantly higher than in ‘Pokusa’ and ‘Polka’ (Table 5).

2.2.2. Protoplast

The electron-dense cytoplasm adhering to the intine of the pollen grains of the R. idaeus cultivars exhibited numerous dark stained structures (Figure 7B, Figure 8B, Figure 9B, Figure 10B, Figure 11A,B, Figure 12A,B). Their regular layered structure showed the presence of plastids (Figure 7D, Figure 8E, Figure 10B, Figure 12D). Amyloplasts contained starch granules (Figure 7C, Figure 10C, Figure 11C). The protoplast contained numerous plastoglobules (Figure 8C, Figure 9D, Figure 10C,D, Figure 11B,C, Figure 12C), mitochondria (Figure 10A,C, Figure 11B,D), Golgi apparatus (Figure 8D, Figure 9A,C, Figure 10C, Figure 11D), amorphic plastids (Figure 10B, Figure 11C), and endoplasmatic reticulum (Figure 11D).

3. Discussion

3.1. Micromorphology of Pollen Grains

The morphology study of the pollen grains of the six R. idaeus cultivars showed a length of the polar (P) and equatorial (E) axes of P × E: 23.8–29.5 × 21.4–28.6 µm. These values were similar or higher to those described in the literature for R. idaeus and other Rubus species, e.g., R. copelandii, R. helvellicus, R. saxatilis, R. acuminatissimus, R. apricus, R. chrysogaeus, R. clementis, R. diclinis, R. ellipticus, R. ferdinandi-muelleri, R. fraxinifolius, R. gracilis, R. megacarpus, R. montis-wilhelmi, R. niveus, R. novoguineensis, R. papuanus, R. royenii, and R. trigonus [60,64,73,74,75]. The values were lower than those reported for e.g., R. acanthodes, R. alpestris, R. archboldianus, R. buergeri, R. calycinus, R. chamaemorus L., R. lainzii, R. lorentzianus, R. macgregrii, R. moluccanus, R. pectinellus, R. praecox., and R. seebergensis [60,64,73,75,78,98,106].
Size of grains. The pollen grains in the analyzed R. idaeus cultivars were classified as small or medium, as indicated by the length of the longer axis of the sporomorphs. A similar size of pollen grains has been described in other species of the genus Rubus, e.g., in R. acuminatissimus, R. chrysogaeus, R. clementis, R. diclinis, R. ellipticus, R. ferdinandi-muelleri, R. fraxinifolius, R. megacarpus, R. montis-wilhelmi, R. niveus, R. novoguineensis, R. papuanus, R. pectinellus, R. royenii var. ikilimbu, and R. trigonus. Medium-sized pollen grains were detected in e.g., R. copelandii, R. chamaemorus, R. calycinus, R. alpestris, and R. archboldianus [74,75,98]. The variation in the pollen grain size may result from the pollination and habitat conditions, whereas the pollen grain transport conditions have been found to play a negligible role in the evolution of the pollen size in species pollinated by bees and birds. The change in the grain size has been shown to influence pollen germination, pollen tube growth, and fertilization [107,108]. The pollen grain size may be modified by the content of nitrogen and phosphorus in the soil. Higher concentrations of these elements have been shown to increase the size, yield, and germinability of grains and enrich their chemical composition. It was also found to have a positive effect on the number of produced seeds [109]. In turn, it has been demonstrated that defoliation of shoots reduces pollen grain size, inhibits the growth of pollen tubes, and reduces the number of seeds [110]. Pollen morphology is affected by climate change. There is a documented relationship between reduced water availability and an increased grain size, which is regarded as an indicator of long-term climate change [111].
Drought stress during flowering of taxa from the family Rosaceae was reported to reduce the amount of produced pollen, increase the pollen grain size, and slightly change their shape. In such conditions, the pollen grains of Rubus and Rosa plants were elongated and larger. Such features enhance the chances of survival and increase pollen germination rates [112].
Shape of pollen grains. The pollen grains in the analyzed cultivars had the shape of prolato-spheroides; or occasionally subprolatum. The first type of shape was also described in R. chrysoageus, R. macgregrii, R. moluccanus var. trilobus, R. montis-wilhelmi, R. novoguineensis, R. papuanus, R. royenii, and R. trigonus [75]. Subprolatum and spheroides types were identified frequently in Rubus plants, whereas the oblato-spheroides shape was rarely observed [79]. The shape and brightness of grains have been used as descriptors in the computer classification of pollen based on their morphology and ornamentation. The size and shape of grains are palynological data used, e.g., for automatic identification of a given taxon, often in combination with sculpture analysis [113,114].
Exine sculpture. The pollen grains of the studied cultivars had a striated and perforated exine sculpture. Similar striated arrangement has been described in some species of the genus Rubus: R. montanus, R. mollis, and R. spiribillei [73]. Perforated sculpture was found in other species of the subgenera Chamaebatus, Ideobatus, and Micranthobathus [71,74,75]. In other taxa of this genus, the arrangement of striae formed various surface types: loosely striated (R. acuminatissimus and R. niveus), densely striated (R. copelandii), scabrate-striated (R. lorentzianus), and papillate-striated (R. odoratus). In turn, the surface in R. glaucus was found to be smooth [71,73,75]. The pollen grain sculpture in other Rubus taxa exhibited the presence of numerous irregular protuberances forming rugulate (R. archboldianus) or scabrate (R. macgregorii) surfaces [75]. In turn, in species originating from the Iberian Peninsula, the grain exine was covered with clavate, spherical, or ellipsoidal processes forming a micropapillate or microclavate (R. genevierii) pattern [60]. Ghosh and Saha [66] observed reticulate-perforated, granulate, and scabrate sculpture in R. acuminatus, R. ellipticus, and R. lineatus.
Striae. The striae in the exine sculpture in the pollen grains of the biennial fruiting cultivars (‘Glen Ample’, ‘Laszka’, and ‘Radziejowa’) were approximately 1.5–2 fold wider than in the repeated fruiting cultivars. The width of the exine striae in ‘Radziejowa’ and ‘Polana’ was similar to that reported in the literature for R. alpestris and R. pedemontanus (200–250 nm), whereas in the range specified for R. macgregorii and R. nessensis was 100–380 nm [64,75]. The value of this parameter in the exine of ‘Polka’, ‘Pokusa’, and ‘Laszka’ was similar but ‘Glen Ample’ higher to that of R. macgregorii and R. nessensis (100–380 nm) but lower than in R. megacarpus (600–800 nm) [64,74]. In turn, the width of the striae in the other cultivar group was similar to that reported for R. acuminatissimus, R. armeniacus, R. laciniatus, and R. fabrimontanus (160–180 nm) [64,75]. There were 8–12 striae per 10 μm of exine surface area in the cultivars examined in this study. The longitudinal axis of adjacent striae was located at a distance of 440–786 nm. As reported by Tomlik-Wyremblewska et al. [64], the width of colpi between striae in the exine of R. armeniacus, R. hirtus, and R. pedemontanus ranged between 100 and 400 nm.
Perforations. There were 39–92 perforations per 10-μm unit area in the exine of pollen grains in the examined cultivars. Their minimum and maximum diameters were in the range of 118–209 nm in ‘Glen Ample’, ‘Pokusa’, and ‘Polka’ and 194–324 nm in ‘Polana’, ‘Laszka’, and ‘Radziejowa’. The former values of the parameter were consistent with or close to the range (50–200 nm) specified for Rubus species by Tomlik-Wyremblewska [64], whereas the latter values were close to the upper limit (‘Polana’) or higher (‘Laszka’, ‘Radziejowa’). Exine perforations were also observed in endemic taxa occurring in Polish flora, e.g., R. chaerophylloides and R. posnaniensis as well as R. clementis and R. megacarpus representing the subgenus Micranthobatus [74,79].
Similar perforations were detected in R. genevierii originating from the Iberian Peninsula [60]. They were also observed in the exine of R. acuminatus, R. chmaemorus, R. ellipticus, R. gracilis, and R. lineatus [66,76,98].

3.2. Ultrastructure of Pollen Grains

Using a transmission electron microscope, a detailed comparison of the cell wall of pollen grains of the six studied R. idaeus cultivars was carried out for the first time. The tectum in the analyzed cultivars was perforated and had a thickness of 209–431 nm. A perforated tectum was observed in other Rubus species as well [66,74,75,115,116,117,118,119,120,121,122].
The columellae present between the tectum and the foot layer in the examined grains were located at a distance of 297–407 nm. They were between 299 and 403 nm high and 208–261 nm thick. Ulrich et al. [123] have reported that the ectoexine is composed of the tectum, infratectum, and foot layer. As shown by Doyle and Endress [124], the infratectum can be granular, intermediate, and columellar. The first form is characteristic for pollen grains of gymnosperms but also occurs in some angiosperm species, mainly as the columellar type [125]. The structural part of the ectoexine, i.e., the foot layer, in the grains of the analyzed cultivars formed a 78–149 nm thick continuous layer. As reported by Ulrich et al. [123], this layer can be either continuous, discontinuous, or absent. The structureless ectoexine in their study formed a continuous layer, and its thickness constituted 8–13% of the thickness of the exine layer. These authors indicate that the endoexine may be continuous or discontinuous, spongy or compact, sometimes present only in apertures, or absent.
The thickness of the exine in the grains was lower in ‘Laszka’, ‘Radziejowa’, ‘Pokusa’, and ‘Polka’ were close to the values, but in the case of ‘Polana’ it was in the range of values determined in other Rubus species (0.9–2.4 μm) [64,73,74,78,79,105]. Sporopollenin contributes to high exine stability. It consists of oxidizing polymers of carotenoids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and phenolic compounds [126]. An analysis of the two structural layers of the exine revealed that the endoexine is more resistant to oxidation than the ectoexine. This is determined primarily by the reduction-resistant sporopollenin accumulated on tuft units originating from plasma membrane glycocalyx rather than the secondary sporopollenin accumulated in the ectoexine [127]. Sporopollenin has a common aliphatic core and various taxon-dependent aromatic side chains [126]. Genes responsible for acyl-CoA-derived tetraketide components are involved in its synthesis [128]. One of them is the LAP3 gene involved in the formation of the normal exine structure and development of pollen. A mutation in this gene was found to lead to formation of a thin exine, disturbances in its sculpture, and metabolic changes in pollen grains [129].
The intine layer in the pollen of the examined cultivars constituted 21–38% of the thickness of the grain cell wall. The intine is usually thicker and composed of two layers at the aperture site [123]. The pectate lyase-like 9 gene (BcPLL9) is involved in intine formation [130]. The structure of intine comprises mainly cellulose, pectins, and callose [123,131,132,133]. The former polysaccharide, which is evenly distributed on the intine surface, is a pollen tube wall progenitor [132,133]. It is formed with the involvement of intine components, e.g., hydrolytic enzymes and hydrophobic proteins maintaining the structural compactness of pollen grains. These substances are necessary for recognition of the receptivity of stigmata and further penetration of the pollen tube through the pistil style [134,135,136].
Numerous plastids, sometimes containing starch granules, were observed in the intine-adhering protoplast of the pollen of the analyzed R. idaeus cultivars. Plastoglobules, mitochondria, and Golgi apparatus were visible in the electron-dense cytoplasm. As reported by Pacini et al. [137], this polysaccharide accumulates in pollen grains during development and persists until the last phase of pollen maturation. Next, before anther dehiscence, it is converted into pectin, glucose, fructose, sucrose, and other sugars. The function of starch is associated with the use of pollen by pollinators. Pollen grains with amyloplasts contain lower content of lipid compounds than starchless pollen. Starch also serves a protective function against pollen grain drying [138].
However, the carbohydrate metabolic process varies: the compounds can be utilized directly, transformed into other molecules, or polymerized to form intine, or stored as starch. During pollen development, the amylogenesis cycle may be specific for each species. Starch in pollen grains can be used as a reserve formed through partial hydrolysis. Carbohydrates are utilized as a raw material necessary during pollen development. In the final phase, they accumulate, thus contributing to the ability of pollen to spread spontaneously [136].

4. Materials and Methods

The research conducted in 2017, 2018, and 2019 involved six cultivars of R. idaeus that are commonly produced in commercial plantations and have been included in the national register. The investigations were conducted on three biennial fruiting cultivars: ‘Glen Ample’, ‘Laszka’, and ‘Radziejowa’ and three repeated fruiting cultivars: ‘Polka’, ‘Polana’, and ‘Pokusa’.

4.1. Study Area and Plant Material

The raspberries were grown on a commercial plantation in Blinów II (50°52′57.03″ N; 22°23′2.663″ E), Szastarka commune, Lublin Province, in the south-eastern part of Poland. The shrubs grew at a 0.5 × 2.8 m spacing. Fertilization and protection agents were used in accordance with the raspberry cultivation recommendations. Flowers, i.e., the source of the pollen grains, were collected three times from each cultivar at the initial stage of flowering to determine the morphological, micromorphological, and ultrastructural characteristics of pollen.

4.2. Fixation of the Material

Stamens with pollen were collected from the flowers at the initial stage of flowering (the bud burst phase). The anthers were fixed in 4% glutaraldehyde for 6 h at room temperature. Afterwards, the samples were treated with 0.01 M phosphate buffer, pH 7.0, for 48 h at 4 °C.
Different methods were employed depending on the intended use of the sample for (i) light field light microscopy, (ii) scanning electron microscopy, and (iii) transmission electron microscopy.

4.3. Light Microscopy (LM)

Pollen for the analyses was sampled three times from 30 randomly flowers of the six cultivars in the consecutive study years. After washing out from anthers with 70% ethyl alcohol, the pollen grains were stained with a 1% safranin solution and sealed in a 50% glycerin solution [139,140]. The microscopic slides were analyzed with a light microscope by measuring the equatorial (E) and polar (P) axes in the light microscope. Comparative observations of the morphology of the pollen grains were carried out using a Nikon Eclipse 90i bright field microscope (Nicon Instruments INC, Tokyo, Japan).

4.4. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)

Fixed samples of anthers with pollen grains were dehydrated in a successive 15, 30, 50, 70, 90, and 99.5% acetone series for 15 min at room temperature and twice in anhydrous acetone. Next, the pollen grains were critical point dried in liquid CO2 using an Emitech K850 dryer (Quorum Technologies Ltd., Ashford, United Kingdom). Dried grains were transferred onto the microscope stage and sputter-coated with gold using an Emitech K550X device (Quorum Technologies Ltd., Ashford, United Kingdom). Observations of the surface of pollen grain sculpture (striae, perforations, microstriae) and photographic documentation were made using a Tescan Vega II LMU scanning electron microscope (SEM) (Tescan Orsay Holding, Brno, Czech Republic). The microscope was used for analysis of 100–150 pollen grains from each cultivar.

4.5. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)

The fixed anthers with pollen grains were contrasted in a 1.5% osmium tetroxide solution for 1.5 h. After rinsing with distilled water, a 0.5% aqueous uranyl acetate solution was applied for 2 h at room temperature. After rinsing with distilled water twice, fragments of anthers and pollen grains were dehydrated for 15 min in a series of ethyl alcohol at subsequent concentrations of 15, 30, 50, 70, 90, 96, and 99.8% and twice in anhydrous ethanol. Dehydrated samples were embedded in Spurr Low Viscosity resin and polymerized at 60 °C for 48 h. The resin-embedded plant material was cut with a glass knife into half-thin sections with a thickness of 1 μm using a Reichert Ultra Cut S microtome; next, the material was contrasted with osmium tetroxide and mounted in Eukit.
In turn, ultrathin sections of the anther with pollen grains with a thickness of 70 nm were stained with an 8% solution of uranyl acetate in 0.5% acetic acid for 40 min.
After rinsing with distilled water twice for 5 min), Reynolds reagent was applied for 15 min [141]. The sections were rinsed with water again (twice for 5 min) and dried. The structural elements of the ectoexine (tectum, middle, and foot layers), endoexine, intine, and protoplast walls were carried out with the use of the FEI, Tecnai G2 Spirit transmission electron microscope (TEM) (FEI Company, Hillsboro, OR, USA). The comparative analyses of the pollen grain ultrastructure were performed on live images and microphotographs of 3–4 ultrathin sections from each of the 12 blocks in each of the six cultivars. In each block, 2-4 stamen heads were embedded.

4.6. Morphometric Measurements

The pollen grains of the R. idaeus cultivars were characterized by assessment of (1) the length of the equatorial (E) and (2) polar axes (P) (n = 150). Based on these values, (3) the shape index (P/E) was calculated, and (4) the grain shape and (5) size were determined following the classification proposed by Erdman [142] as well as Dybova-Jachowicz and Sadowska [143]. The study of the micromorphology of the exine sculpture in the pollen grains consisted in comparison of (6) the width of striae, and (7) colpi (n = 30). The number of (8) striae and (9) perforations per unit area (10 µm2) as well as (11) the number of perforations per 2-µm colpus fragment were calculated. The assessment of the cell wall ultrastructure consisted in measurements of the thickness of the following elements: (12) tectum, (13) middle layer, (14) foot layer, (15) ectoexine, (16) endoexine, (17) exine, (18) intine, and (19) cell wall. Additionally, the thickness (20) and height (21) of columellae and (21) the distance between adjacent columellae (n = 30) were measured. The morphometric measurements were carried out using Nikon NIS-Elements version 3.0 Advance Research microscopic image analysis software.

4.7. Statistical Analysis of Results

The mean results of the morphometric measurements of the micromorphological parameters of the exine sculpture and ultrastructure of pollen grains as well as the standard deviation were calculated using the Microsoft Excel 2013 program. The significance of differences between the examined pollen characteristics was statistically analyzed using the statistical software Statistica 6.0. The differences between the selected traits were evaluated using one-way ANOVA analysis of variance. Statistical inference was carried out at the significance level α < 0.05.

5. Conclusions

The pollen grains of the six R. idaeus cultivars studied were classified as small or medium, and their shape was classified as prolato-spheroides or subprolatum. In the striated grain sculpture, adjacent striae in the equatorial position were sometimes dichotomously branched in ‘Glen Ample’, ‘Polka’, and ‘Polana’, arcuate in ‘Laszka’ and ‘Pokusa’, and irregularly arranged and overlapping in ‘Radziejowa’. In comparison with the pollen grains of the biennial fruiting cultivars as compared to the repeated fruiting cultivars, the width of striae and colpi on the exine was 46% and 23%, larger, respectively, and the number of muri per unit area was 14% higher. In terms of the increasing number of perforations per unit area, the cultivars are ranked as follows: ‘Pokusa’ < ‘Glen Ample’ < ‘Laszka’ < ‘Polka’ < ‘Polana’ < ‘Radziejowa’. The ultrastructure analysis demonstrated the thickest tectum in ‘Glen Ample’, the highest and thickest columellae with the largest distance between them in ‘Polka’, and the thickest foot layer in ‘Polana’. The ectoexine in the pollen grains accounted for approximately 89–92% of the thickness of the exine, whereas the intine layer represented 21–38% of the thickness of the grain wall. The present investigations may be helpful indicators for identification of related taxa of the genus Rubus.
The micromorphological and ultrastructural traits of the exine in the pollen of the six cultivars of R. idaeus documented in the present study may be useful for not only botany, biology, and palynology specialists but also for a wider audience in the field of forestry, horticulture, medicine, apiculture, and sciences related to nutrition and environmental protection.
The parameters of exine sculpture can be used as taxonomic indicators in many fields of science, e.g., in paleoecology and biogeography, archaeological excavations, and interpretation of phylogenetic relationships in the genus Rubus. They can also be used in innovative research programs to identify pollen supported by chemotaxonomy and DNA barcoding of plant genomes. These indicators can be useful in practice, e.g., in forensics, biochemistry, biology of the pollination process, assessment of mutualistic relationships, monitoring pollen allergen concentrations, and identification of pollen-based dietary supplement products. They can also be applied in innovative nanotechnology to form microcapsules and natural polymers.
Future research should be focused on micromorphological and ultrastructural analysis as well as microanalysis of pollen in many groups of Rubus cultivars in view of their use in cultivation work on, e.g., genetic diversity and resistance to biotic factors and climate change. Investigations should also focus on invasive food processing and nanotechnology as carriers of phytochemicals in pharmacy and cosmetology.

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, M.C. and M.K.; Methodology, M.C., M.K., and R.M.-G.; Investigation, M.K., M.C., and R.M.-G.; Graphic Design, M.C. and M.K.; Statistical Analysis, M.K.; Writing—Original Draft Preparation, M.C., M.K., and R.M.-G.; Supervision, M.C. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

This research received no external funding.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

References

  1. Ling-Ti, L. A study on the genus Rubus of China. J. Syst. Evol. 1983, 21, 13–25. [Google Scholar]
  2. Hummer, K.E. Rubus diversity. Hort. Sci. 1996, 31, 182–183. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  3. Morden, C.W.; Gardner, D.E.; Weniger, D.A. Phylogeny and biogeography of Pacific Rubus subgenus Idaeobatus (Rosaceae) species: Investigating the origin of the endemic Hawaiian raspberry R. macraei. Pac. Sci. 2003, 57, 181–197. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  4. Wang, H.; Sun, H. Rubus tetsunii, a replacement name for the Chinese, R. lobatus TT Yu & LT Lu (Rosaceae). Phytotaxa 2013, 79, 63–64. [Google Scholar]
  5. Wang, Y.; Chen, Q.; Fu, H.; Zhang, J.; Chen, T.; Sun, B.; Luo, Y.; Zhang, Y.; Thang, H.; Wang, X. Genome affinity in Rubus (Rosaceae) inferred from meiotic chromosome pairing of sixteen wild and cultivated bramble resources. Ind. J. Genet. Plant. Breed. 2018, 78, 496–506. [Google Scholar]
  6. Foster, T.M.; Bassil, N.V.; Dossett, M.; Leigh Worthington, M.; Graham, J. Genetic and genomic resources for Rubus breeding: A roadmap for the future. Hortic. Res. 2019, 6, 116. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  7. Oklejewicz, K.; Luczaj, L. Folk taxonomy of Rubus species in Poland. In Proceedings of the Conference Dzikie Rośliny Jadalne-zapomniany Potencjal Przyrody, Przemysl-Bolestraszyce, Poland, 13 September 2007; pp. 201–218. (In Polish). [Google Scholar]
  8. Wang, H.C.; Wang, Y.H.; Sun, H. Nomenclatural changes in Rubus (Rosaceae) mostly from China. Phytotaxa 2013, 114, 58–60. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  9. Zielinski, J. Rubus kuleszae (Rosaceae)—A new bramble species of section Corylifolii from Poland. Fragm. Florist. Geobot. 1996, 41, 249–254. [Google Scholar]
  10. Zielinski, J. The genus Rubus (Rosaceae) in Poland. Pol. Bot. Stud. 2004, 16, 1–300. [Google Scholar]
  11. Zielinski, J.; Travnicek, B. Rubus bohemo-polonicus (Rosaceae)—A new species of bramble from the Czech Republic and Poland. Acta Soc. Bot. Pol. 2004, 73, 311–314. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  12. Zielinski, J.; Kosinski, P.; Tomaszewski, D. Rubus lucentifolius (Rosaceae), a new species of bramble from Poland. Pol. J. Bot. 2004, 49, 5–9. [Google Scholar]
  13. Zielinski, J.; Kosinski, P.; Tomaszewski, D. The genus Rubus (Rosaceae) in southeastern Lower Silesia (Poland). Pol. J. Bot. 2004, 49, 161–180. [Google Scholar]
  14. Wolanin, M.M.; Wolanin, M.N.; Musial, K.; Kania, I.; Oklejewicz, K. Rubus zielinskii (Rosaceae), a new species from Poland. Phytotaxa 2016, 273, 183–190. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  15. Rumasz-Rudnicka, E.; Koszanski, Z.; Podsiadlo, C. Influence of drip irrigation and nitrogen fertilizer on the yield of raspberry cultivated on sandy soil. Inz. Rol. 2005, 9, 201–206. (In Polish) [Google Scholar]
  16. Celik, F.; Ercisli, S. Lipid and fatty acid composition of wild and cultivated red raspberry fruits (Rubus idaeus L.). J. Med. Plant. Res. 2009, 3, 583–585. [Google Scholar]
  17. Krawiec, P.; Rybczynski, R. Fertigation efficiency of pimocane-fruiting of raspberry varieties. Acta Agrophys. 2010, 16, 347–358. (In Polish) [Google Scholar]
  18. Nikfardjam, M.P.; Sussmann, M.; Muster, G. Influence of cultivation management, date of harvest, ripeness stage and storage time on anthocyanins in raspberries cv. ‘Tulameen’ and ‘Glen Ample’. Mitt. Klosterneubg. 2015, 65, 276–286. [Google Scholar]
  19. Lacis, G.; Kota-Dombrovska, I.; Strautiņa, S. Evaluation of red raspberry cultivars used for breeding and commercial growing in the Baltic region. Proc. Latv. Acad. Sci. Sec. B Nat. Exact. Appl. Sci. 2017, 71, 203–210. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  20. Chwil, M.; Kostryco, M. Bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of Rubus idaeus L. leaves. Acta Sci. Pol. Hortorum Cultus. 2018, 17, 135–147. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  21. Marchi, P.M.; Carvalho, I.R.; Pereira, I.D.S.; Rosa, T.C.D.; Hohn, D.; Szareski, V.J.; Reisser, C.; Junior, A.L.E.C. Yield and quality of primocane-fruiting raspberry grown under plastic cover in southern Brazil. Sci. Agric. 2019, 76, 481–486. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  22. Hummer, K.E.; Janick, J. Rosaceae: Taxonomy, economic importance, genomics. In Genetics and Genomics of Rosaceae. Plant Genetics and Genomics: Crops and Models, 1st ed.; Folta, K.M., Gardiner, S.E., Eds.; Springer: New York, NY, USA, 2009; Volume 6, pp. 1–17. [Google Scholar]
  23. Ciebien, M.; Rachon, L.; Krawiec, P. Position of Poland in the world production of raspberries in the years 2002–2012. Rocz. Nauk. Stow. Ekon. Rol. Agrob. 2015, 17, 16–19. (In Polish) [Google Scholar]
  24. Kljajic, N.; Subic, J.; Sredojevic, Z. Profitability of raspberry production on holdings in the territory of Arilje. Econ. Agric. 2017, 64, 57–68. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  25. Simpson, D. The economic importance of strawberry crops. In The Genomes of Rosaceous Berries and Their Wild Relatives. Compendium of Plant Genomes, 1st ed.; Hytonen, T., Graham, J., Harrison, R., Eds.; Springer International Publishing: Cham, Switzerland, 2018; pp. 17–23. [Google Scholar]
  26. Greblikaite, J.; Ispiryan, A.; Montvydaite, D. Development of berry farms in Europe: Organisational and management issues. Mark. Menedz. Innov. 2019, 2, 141–159. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  27. Wroblewska, W.; Pawlak, J.; Paszko, D. Economic aspects in the raspberry production on the example of farms from Poland, Serbia and Ukraine. J. Hortic. Res. 2019, 27, 71–80. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  28. Oomah, B.D.; Ladet, S.; Godfrey, D.V.; Liang, J.; Girard, B. Characteristics of raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) seed oil. Food Chem. 2000, 69, 187–193. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  29. Escuredo, O.; Silva, L.R.; Valentao, P.; Seijo, M.C.; Andrade, P.B. Assessing Rubus honey value: Pollen and phenolic compounds content and antibacterial capacity. Food Chem. 2012, 130, 671–678. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  30. Nohynek, L.; Bailey, M.; Tahtiharju, J.; Seppanen-Laakso, T.; Rischer, H.; Oksman-Caldentey, K.M.; Puupponen-Pimia, R. Cloudberry (Rubus chamaemorus) cell culture with bioactive substances: Establishment and mass propagation for industrial use. Eng. Life Sci. 2014, 14, 667–675. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  31. Ispiryan, A.; Viskelis, J. Valorisation of raspberries by-products for food and pharmaceutical industries. Adv. Agri. Harti. Ento. 2019, 1, 102. [Google Scholar]
  32. Gulcin, I.; Topal, F.; Cakmakcı, R.; Bilsel, M.; Goren, A.C.; Erdogan, U. Pomological features, nutritional quality, polyphenol content analysis, and antioxidant properties of domesticated and 3 wild ecotype forms of raspberries (Rubus idaeus L.). J. Food Sci. 2011, 76, C585–C593. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  33. Picuric-Jovanovic, K.; Milovanovic, M. Investigation on the Rubus idaeus L. seed oil (Rosaceae). J. Agric. Sci. 2016, 45, 37–42. [Google Scholar]
  34. Barbulova, A.; Tito, A.; Hill, J.; Carola, A.; Bimonte, M.; De Laurentis, F.; D’ambrosio, P.; Apone, F.; Colucci, G.; Monoli, I.; et al. Raspberry stem cell extract to protect skin from inflammation and oxidative stress. Cosmet. Toilet. 2010, 125, 38–47. [Google Scholar]
  35. Tito, A.; Bimonte, M.; Carola, A.; De Lucia, A.; Barbulova, A.; Tortora, A.; Colucci, G.; Apone, F. An oil-soluble extract of Rubus idaeus cells enhances hydration and water homeostasis in skin cells. Int. J. Cosmet. Sci. 2015, 37, 588–594. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  36. Papaioanou, M.; Chronopoulou, E.G.; Ciobotari, G.; Efrose, R.C.; Sfichi-Duke, L.; Chatzikonstantinou, M.; Pappa, E.; Ganopoulos, I.; Madesis, P.; Nianiou-Obeidat, I.; et al. Cosmeceutical properties of two cultivars of red raspberry grown under different conditions. Cosmetics 2018, 5, 20. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  37. Fuchigami, T.; Kimata, R.; Haneda, M.; Kakimoto, K.I. Complex three-dimensional Co3O4 nano-raspberry: Highly stable and active low-temperature CO oxidation catalyst. Nanomaterials 2018, 8, 662. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  38. Demirbas, A.; Buyukbezirci, K.; Celi, C.; Kislacki, E.; Karaagac, Z.; Gokturk, E.; Kati, A.; Cimen, B.; Yilmaz, V.; Ocsoy, I. Synthesis of long-term stable gold nanoparticles benefiting from red raspberry (Rubus idaeus), strawberry (Fragaria ananassa), and blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) extracts–gold ion complexation and investigation of reaction conditions. ACS Omega 2019, 4, 18637–18644. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  39. Demirbas, A.; Yilmaz, V.; Ildiz, N.; Baldemir, A.; Ocsoy, I. Anthocyanins-rich berry extracts directed formation of Ag NPs with the investigation of their antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. J. Mol. Liq. 2017, 248, 1044–1049. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  40. Stevanovic, M.S.; Zvezdanovic, J.B.; Stanojevic, L.P.; Stanojevic, J.S.; Petrovic, S.M.; Cakic, M.D.; Cvetkovic, D.J. Synthesis, characterization and antioxidant activity of silver nanoparticles stabilized by aqueous extracts of wild blackberry (Rubus spp.) and raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) leaves. Adv. Technol. 2019, 8, 47–58. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  41. Ra, J.C.; Kang, K.S.; Lee, H.Y.; Choi, M.K.; Park, H.G. Effect of decreasing body weight with plant extracts containing Rubi fructus. Toxicol. Res. 2004, 20, 167–172. [Google Scholar]
  42. Kim, D.H.; Park, J.H.; Kim, J.H.; Kim, C.H.; You, J.H.; Kwon, M.C.; Lee, H.Y. Enhancement of immune activities of Ephedrae herba and Rubi fructus at low temperature extraction. Korean J. Med. Crop. Sci. 2005, 13, 81–86. [Google Scholar]
  43. Kim, J.S.; Jeon, W.J.; You, H.J.; Park, M.S.; Ji, G.E. Inhibitory activities of Rubi fructus on digestive enzymes. Food Sci. Biotechnol. 2010, 19, 1165–1170. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  44. Nam, M.K.; Choi, H.R.; Cho, J.S.; Cho, S.M.; Ha, K.C.; Kim, T.H.; Ryu, H.Y.; Lee, Y.I. Inhibitory effects of Rubi Fructus extracts on hepatic steatosis development in high-fat diet-induced obese mice. Mol. Med. Rep. 2014, 10, 1821–1827. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  45. Chwil, M.; Kostryco, M. Histochemical assays of secretory trichomes and the structure and content of mineral nutrients in Rubus idaeus L. leaves. Protoplasma 2020, 257, 119–139. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  46. Costea, T.; Istudor, V.; Nencu, I. Researches upon indigenous herbal products for therapeutic valorification in metabolic diseases. Note I. Polyphenols’ analysis of Rubi idaei folium. Acta Med. Marisiensis 2012, 58, 281–284. [Google Scholar]
  47. Costea, T.; Istudor, V.; Fierascu, R.; Fierascu, I.; Botez, A. Researches upon indigenous herbal products for therapeutic valorification in metabolic diseases Note I. Betulae folium and Rubi idaei folium, sources of micro-and macroelements. Farmacia 2013, 61, 162–169. [Google Scholar]
  48. Costea, T.; Vlase, L.; Gostin, I.N.; Olah, N.K.; Predan, G.M.I. Botanical characterization, phytochemical analysis and antioxidant activity of indigenous red raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) leaves. Stud. Univ. Vasile Goldis Ser. Stiint. Vietii 2016, 26, 463–472. [Google Scholar]
  49. Willmer, P.G.; Bataw, A.A.M.; Hughes, J.P. The superiority of bumblebees to honeybees as pollinators: Insect visits to raspberry flowers. Ecol. Entomol. 1994, 19, 271–284. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  50. Andrikopoulos, C.J. Comparative Pollination Efficacies of Bees on Raspberry and the Management of Osmia lignaria for Late Blooming Crops. Master’s Thesis, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA, 2018. [Google Scholar]
  51. Bobis, O.; Marghita, L.A.; Dezmirean, D.; Bonta, V.; Mihai, C.M. Beehive products: Source of nutrients and natural biologically active compounds. J. Agroalim. Proc. Technol. 2010, 16, 104–109. [Google Scholar]
  52. Ceksteryte, V.; Kurtinaitiene, B.; Balzekas, J. Pollen diversity in honey collected from Lithuania’s protected landscape areas. Proc. Estonian Acad. Sci. 2013, 62, 277–282. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  53. Weber, H.E. Former and modern taxonomic treatment of the apomictic Rubus complex. Folia Geobot. Phytotax 1996, 31, 373–380. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  54. Howarth, D.G.; Gardner, D.E.; Morden, C.W. Phylogeny of Rubus subgenus Idaeobatus (Rosaceae) and its implications toward colonization of the Hawaiian Islands. Syst. Bot. 1997, 22, 433–441. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  55. Alice, L.A.; Campbell, C.S. Phylogeny of Rubus (Rosaceae) based on nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer region sequences. Am. J. Bot. 1999, 86, 81–97. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  56. Alice, L.A. Evolutionary relationships in Rubus (Rosaceae) based on molecular data. In: VIII International Rubus and Ribes Symposium. Acta Hortic. 2001, 585, 79–83. [Google Scholar]
  57. Clark, L.V.; Jasieniuk, M. Spontaneous hybrids between native and exotic Rubus in the Western United States produce offspring both by apomixis and by sexual recombination. Heredity 2012, 109, 320–328. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  58. Sarhanova, P.; Sharbel, T.F.; Sochor, M.; Vasut, R.J.; Dancak, M.; Travnicek, B. Hybridization drives evolution of apomicts in Rubus subgenus Rubus: Evidence from microsatellite markers. Ann. Bot. 2017, 120, 317–328. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  59. Hebda, R.J.; Chinnappa, C.C. Studies on pollen morphology of Rosaceae in Canada. Rev. Paleobot. Palyno. 1990, 64, 103–108. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  60. Monasterio-Huelin, E.; Pardo, C. Pollen morphology and wall stratification in Rubus L. (Rosaceae) in the Iberian Peninsula. Grana 1995, 34, 229–236. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  61. Agudo, J.S.; Rico, E.; Sanchez, J.S. Palynological study of Potentilla subg. Potentilla (Rosaceae) in the western Mediterranean. Grana 1998, 37, 276–284. [Google Scholar]
  62. Mercado-Gomez, J.D.; Jimenez-Bulla, L.C.; Sanchez-Montano, L.R. Pollen of Magnoliopsida in El Volcan (Pamplona, Colombia) II: Families Hypericaceae, Lamiaceae, Lobeliaceae, Melastomataceae, Polygonaceae, Rhamnaceae, Rosaceae, Rubiaceae, Scrophulariaceae and Solanaceae. Caldasia 2013, 35, 409–427. [Google Scholar]
  63. Hebda, R.J.; Chinnappa, C.C.; Smith, B.M. Pollen morphology of the Rosaceae of Western Canada: I. Agrimonia to Crataegus. Grana 1988, 27, 95–113. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  64. Tomlik-Wyremblewska, A. Pollen morphology of genus Rubus L. Part I. Introductory studies of the European representatives of the subgenus Rubus L. Acta Soc. Bot. Pol. 1995, 64, 187–203. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  65. Wronska-Pilarek, D.; Jagodzinski, A.M. Pollen morphological variability of Polish native species of Rosa L. (Rosaceae). Dendrobiology 2009, 62, 71–82. [Google Scholar]
  66. Ghosh, A.; Saha, I. Pollen morphological study of some selected Indian taxa of Rosaceae. Indian J. Appl. Pure Biol. 2017, 32, 121–130. [Google Scholar]
  67. Wronska-Pilarek, D.; Boratynska, K. Pollen morphology of Rosa gallica L. (Rosaceae) from southern Poland. Acta. Soc. Bot. Pol. 2005, 74, 297–304. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  68. Wronska-Pilarek, D.; Jagodzinski, A.M. Intra-and interindividual variability of selected quantitative features of pollen grain morphology based on the example of Rosa canina L. (Rosaceae). Dendrobiology 2012, 67, 25–39. [Google Scholar]
  69. Perveen, A.; Qaiser, M. Pollen flora of Pakistan–LXXI. Rosaceae. Pak. J. Bot. 2014, 46, 1027–1037. [Google Scholar]
  70. Chwil, M. Micromorphology of pollen grains of fruit trees of the genus Prunus. Acta Sci. Pol. Hortorum Cultus 2015, 14, 115–129. [Google Scholar]
  71. Padilla, F.; Soria, N.; Oleas, A.; Rueda, D.; Manjunatha, B.; Kundapur, R.R.; Maddela, N.R.; Rajeswari, B. The effects of pesticides on morphology, viability, and germination of Blackberry (Rubus glaucus Benth) and Tree tomato (Solanum betaceum Cav.) pollen grains. 3 Biotech. 2017, 7, 154. [Google Scholar]
  72. Motyleva, S.M.; Gruner, L.; Semenova, L. The morphology of pollen grains of some cultivars Rubus fruticosus L. Agrobiodivers. Improv. Nutr. Health Life Qual. 2018, 2, 1–6. [Google Scholar]
  73. Lechowicz, K.; Wronska-Pilarek, D.; Bocianowski, J.; Malinski, T. Pollen morphology of Polish species from the genus Rubus L. (Rosaceae) and its systematic importance. PLoS ONE 2020, 15, e0221607. [Google Scholar]
  74. Tomlik-Wyremblewska, A. Pollen morphology of genus Rubus L., Part II. Introductory studies on the Malesian species of subgenus Micranthobatus. Acta Soc. Bot. Pol. 2000, 69, 31–40. [Google Scholar]
  75. Tomlik-Wyremblewska, A.; Van Der Ham, R.W.; Kosinski, P. Pollen morphology of genus Rubus L. Part III. Studies on the Malesian species of subgenera Chamaebatus L. and Idaeobatus L. Acta. Soc. Bot. Pol. 2004, 73, 207–227. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  76. Wronska-Pilarek, D.; Malinski, T.; Lira, J. Pollen morphology of Polish species of genus Rubus-Part I. Rubus gracilis. Dendrobiology 2006, 56, 69–77. [Google Scholar]
  77. Wei-Lin, L.I.; Shan-An, H.E.; Yin, G.U.; Pu, S.H.U.; Zu-Mao, P.U. Pollen morphology of the genus Rubus from China. J. Syst. Evol. 2001, 39, 234–247. [Google Scholar]
  78. Kodela, P.G. Pollen morphology of some rainforest taxa occurring in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, Australia. Telopea 2006, 11, 346–389. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  79. Wronska-Pilarek, D.; Jagodzinski, A.; Malinski, T. Morphological studies of pollen grains of the Polish endemic species of the genus Rubus (Rosaceae). Biologia 2012, 67, 87–96. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  80. Popek, R. Biosystematic Studies of the Ggenus Rosa L. In Poland and Neighboring Countries; Prace Monograficzne; Wydawnictwo Naukowe Wyzszej Szkoly Pedagogicznej: Krakow, Poland, 1996; pp. 1–199. (In Polish) [Google Scholar]
  81. Lihua, Z.; Zhongxin, W.; Zhengyi, W. Pollen morphology of Rosoideae (Rosaceae) of China. Acta Bot. Yunnanica 1999, 21, 455–460. [Google Scholar]
  82. Wronska-Pilarek, D. Pollen morphology of Polish native species of the Rosa genus (Rosaceae) and its relation to systematics. Acta. Soc. Bot. Pol. 2011, 80, 221–232. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  83. Zhou, L.H.; Wei, Z.X.; Wu, Z.Y. Pollen morphology of Prunoideae of China (Rosaceae). Acta Bot. Yunnanica 1999, 22, 207–211. [Google Scholar]
  84. Ariizumi, T.; Toriyama, K. Genetic regulation of sporopollenin synthesis and pollen exine development. Annu. Rev. Plant. Biol. 2011, 62, 437–460. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  85. Wiermann, R.; Gubatz, S. Pollen wall and sporopollenin. Int. Rev. Cytol. 1992, 140, 35–72. [Google Scholar]
  86. Dobritsa, A.A.; Shrestha, J.; Morant, M.; Pinot, F.; Matsuno, M.; Swanson, R.; Moller, B.L.; Preuss, D. CYP704B1 is a long-chain fatty acid ω-hydroxylase essential for sporopollenin synthesis in pollen of Arabidopsis. Plant. Physiol. 2009, 151, 574–589. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed] [Green Version]
  87. Kostic, A.Z.; Milincic, D.D.; Barac, M.B.; Shariati, A.M.; Tesic, Z.L.; Pesic, M.B. The application of pollen as a functional food and feed ingredient-the present and perspectives. Biomolecules 2020, 10, 84. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed] [Green Version]
  88. Choi, Y.S.; Suh, H.J.; Chung, I.K. Enhanced extraction of bioactive compounds from bee pollen by wet-grinding technology. J. Life Sci. 2016, 26, 651–656. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  89. Fatemi, N.; Attar, F.; Assareh, M.N.; Hamzehee, B. Pollen morphology of the genus Rosa L. (Rosaceae) in Iran. Iran. J. Bot. 2012, 18, 284–293. [Google Scholar]
  90. Kuiling, W.; Qingchao, L.; Xin, H.; Qinghua, L.; Qixiang, Z. Study on palynology of Camellia japonica L. (NaiDong). Chin. Agric. Sci. Bull. 2007, 23, 267–272. [Google Scholar]
  91. Chung, K.S.; Elisens, W.J.; Skvarla, J.J. Pollen morphology and its phylogenetic significance in tribe Sanguisorbeae (Rosaceae). Plant Syst. Evol. 2010, 285, 139–148. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  92. Wronska-Pilarek, D.; Jagodzinski, A.M. Systematic importance of pollen morphological features of selected species from the genus Rosa (Rosaceae). Plant Syst. Evol. 2011, 295, 55–72. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  93. Wronska-Pilarek, D.; Daniekewicz, W.; Bocianowski, J.; Mailnski, T.; Janyszek, M. Comparative pollen morphological analysis and its systematic implications on three European oak (Quercus L., Fagaceae) species and their spontaneous hybrids. PLoS ONE 2016, 11, e0161762. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  94. Wronska-Pilarek, D.; Wiatrowska, B.; Bocianowski, J. Pollen morphology and variability of invasive Spiraea tomentosa L. (Rosaceae) from populations in Poland. PLoS ONE 2019, 14, 1–19. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  95. Radovic, A.; Nikolic, D.; Milatovic, D.; Djurovic, D.; Trajkovic, J. Investigation of pollen morphological characteristics in some quince (Cydonia oblonga Mill.) cultivars. Turk. J. Agric. For. 2016, 40, 441–449. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  96. Song, J.H.; Oak, M.K.; Roh, H.S.; Hong, S.P. Morphology of pollen and orbicules in the tribe Spiraeeae (Rosaceae) and its systematic implications. Grana 2017, 56, 351–367. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  97. Eide, F.Y. Key for northwest European Rosaceae pollen. Grana 1981, 20, 101–118. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  98. Eide, F.Y. On the pollen morphology of Rubus chamaemorus L. (Rosaceae). Grana 1981, 20, 25–27. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  99. Kalkman, C. The phylogeny of the Rosaceae. Bot. J. Linn. Soc. 1988, 98, 37–59. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  100. Hebda, R.J.; Chinnappa, C.C. Studies on pollen morphology of Rosaceae. Acta Bot. Gall. 1994, 141, 183–193. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  101. Xiong, X.H.; Zhou, X.M.; Li, M.; Xu, B.; Deng, H.N.; Yu, Q.; Gao, X.F. Pollen morphology in Rubus (Rosaceae) and its taxonomic implications. Plant. Syst. Evol. 2019, 305, 705–716. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  102. Dar, J.A.; Wani, A.A.; Dhar, M.K. Preliminary pollen analysis of some apple cultivars in Kashmir: Towards understanding the apple pollen morphology. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. India Sect. B Biol. Sci. 2019, 90, 431–438. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  103. Tungmunnithum, D.; Renouard, S.; Drouet, S.; Blondeau, J.P.; Hano, C. A critical cross-species comparison of pollen from Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. vs. Nymphaea lotus L. for authentication of Thai medicinal herbal tea. Plants 2020, 9, 921. [Google Scholar]
  104. Schori, M.; Furness, C.A. Pollen diversity in Aquifoliales. Bot. J. Linn. Soc. 2014, 175, 169–190. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  105. Almeida, R.P.; Stouthamer, R. Phylogeny of the Trichogramma endosymbiont Wolbachia, an alpha-proteobacteria (Rickettsiae). Braz. J. Biol. 2018, 78, 421–428. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed] [Green Version]
  106. Nagamitsu, T.; Nagamasu, H. Keys for the pollen of Ashiu, Central Japan. Contr. Biol. Lab. Kyoto Univ. 1994, 28, 261–355. [Google Scholar]
  107. Harder, L.D. Pollen-size comparisons among animal-pollinated angiosperms with different pollination characteristics. Bot. J. Linn. Soc. 1998, 64, 513–525. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  108. Giovannini, A.; Macovei, A.; Caser, M.; Mansuino, A.; Ghione, G.G.; Savona, M.; Carbonera, D.; Scariot, V.; Balestrazzi, A. Pollen grain preservation and fertility in valuable commercial rose cultivars. Plants 2017, 6, 17. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed] [Green Version]
  109. Lau, T.C.; Stephenson, A.G. Effects of soil phosphorus on pollen production, pollen size, pollen phosphorus content, and the ability to sire seeds in Cucurbita pepo (Cucurbitaceae). Sex. Plant. Reprod. 1994, 7, 215–220. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  110. Aizen, M.A.; Raffaele, E. Flowering-shoot defoliation affects pollen grain size and postpollination pollen performance in Alstroemeria aurea. Ecology 1998, 79, 2133–2142. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  111. Griener, K.W.; Warny, S. Nothofagus pollen grain size as a proxy for long-term climate change: An applied study on Eocene, Oligocene, and Miocene sediments from Antarctica. Rev. Paleobot. Palyno. 2015, 221, 138–143. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  112. Ejsmond, M.J.; Wronska-Pilarek, D.; Ejsmond, A.; Dragosz-Kluska, D.; Karpinska-Kolaczek, M.; Kolaczek, P.; Kozlowski, J. Does climate affect pollen morphology? Optimal size and shape of pollen grains under various desiccation intensity. Ecosphere 2011, 2, 1–15. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  113. Rodriguez-Damian, M.; Cernadas, E.; Formella, A.; Fernandez-Delgado, M.; De Sa-Otero, P. Automatic detection and classification of grains of pollen based on shape and texture. IEEE Trans. Syst. Man Cybern. Part C Appl. Rev. 2006, 36, 531–542. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  114. Rodriguez-Damian, M.; Cernadas, E.; Formella, A.; Sa-Otero, R. Pollen Classification using Brightness-based and Shape-based Descriptors. In Proceedings of the 17th International Conference on Pattern Recognition ICPR, Cambridge, UK, 26 August 2004; Kittler, J., Petrou, M., Nixon, M., Eds.; IEEE Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers: Piscataway Township, NJ, USA, 2004; pp. 212–215. [Google Scholar]
  115. Naruhashi, N.; Takano, H. Size variation of pollen grains in some Rubus species. J. Phytogeograph. Taxon. 1980, 28, 27–32. [Google Scholar]
  116. Kosenko, V.N.; Nguen, T.K.; Iakovlev, G.P. Palynomorphological study of the representatives of the genus Rubus (Rosaceae) in the flora of Viet Nam. Bot. Zhurnal 1984, 4, 497–503. [Google Scholar]
  117. Fedoronchuk, M.M.; Savitsky, V.D. Comparative and morphological analysis of pollen for genera of the family Rosaceae Juss. of the Ukrainian flora. Ukrain. Bot. Zhurnal 1987, 44, 32–38. [Google Scholar]
  118. Ueda, Y. Pollen surface morphology in the genus Rosa and related genera. Jpn. J. Palynol. 1992, 38, 94–105. [Google Scholar]
  119. Ueda, Y. Systematic studies in the genus Rosa. Tech. Bull. Fac. Hort. Chiba Univ. 1994, 48, 241–328. [Google Scholar]
  120. Ueda, Y.; Okada, Y. Discrimination of rose cultivar groups by pollen surface structure. J. Hortic. Sci. 1994, 69, 601–607. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  121. Wang, X.R.; Tang, H.R.; Huang, L.; He, Z.Z.; Dong, X.L.; Fu, H.Q.; Deng, Q.X. Comparative studies on pollen submicroscopic morphology of some wild species and cultivars of bramble (Rubus L.). Acta Hort. Sin. 2007, 34, 1395. [Google Scholar]
  122. Kasalkheh, R.; Jorjani, E.; Sabouri, H.; Habibi, M.; Sattarian, A. Pollen morphology of gnus Rubus L. subgenus Rubus (Rosaceae) in Iran. Nova Biol. Rep. 2017, 4, 9–18. [Google Scholar]
  123. Ulrich, S.; Hesse, M.; Weber, M.; Halbritter, H. Amorphophallus: New insights into pollen morphology and the chemical nature of the pollen wall. Grana 2017, 56, 1–36. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  124. Doyle, J.A.; Endress, P.K. Morphological phylogenetic analysis of basal angiosperms: Comparison and combination with molecular data. Int. J. Plant. Sci. 2000, 161, 121–153. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  125. Doyle, J. Early evolution of angiosperm pollen as inferred from molecular and morphological phylogenetic analyses. Grana 2005, 44, 227–251. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  126. Diego-Taboada, A.; Beckett, S.T.; Atkin, S.L.; Mackenzie, G. Hollow pollen shells to enhance drug delivery. Pharmaceutics 2014, 6, 80–96. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  127. Rowley, J.R. Why the endexine and ectexine differ in resistance to oxidation. Calluna as a model system. Grana 2001, 40, 159–162. [Google Scholar]
  128. Quilichini, T.D.; Grienenberger, E.; Douglas, C.J. The biosynthesis, composition and assembly of the outer pollen wall: A tough case to crack. Phytochemistry 2015, 113, 170–182. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  129. Dobritsa, A.A.; Nishikawa, S.I.; Preuss, D.; Urbanczyk-Wochniak, E.; Sumner, L.W.; Hammond, A.; Carlson, A.L.; Swanson, R.J. LAP3, a novel plant protein required for pollen development, is essential for proper exine formation. Sex. Plant. Reprod. 2009, 22, 167–177. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  130. Jiang, J.; Yao, L.; Yu, Y.; Liang, Y.; Jiang, J.; Ye, N.; Miao, Y.; Cao, J. Pectate lyase-like 9 from Brassica campestris is associated with intine formation. Plant. Sci. 2014, 229, 66–75. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  131. Halbritter, H.; Ulrich, S.; Grimsson, F.; Weber, M.; Zetter, R.; Hesse, M.; Buchner, R.; Svojtka, M.; Frosch-Radivo, A. Pollen morphology and ultrastructure. In Illustrated Pollen Terminology, 2nd ed.; Halbritter, H., Ulrich, S., Grimsson, F., Weber, M., Zetter, R., Hesse, M., Buchner, R., Svojtka, M., Frosch-Radivo, A., Eds.; Springer: Cham, Switzerland, 2018; pp. 37–65. [Google Scholar]
  132. Suarez-Cervera, M.; Arcalis, E.; Le Thomas, A.; Seoane-Camba, J.A. Pectin distribution pattern in the apertural intine of Euphorbia peplus L. (Euphorbiaceae) pollen. Sex. Plant. Reprod. 2002, 14, 291–298. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  133. Fang, K.; Wang, Y.; Yu, T.; Zhang, L.; Baluska, F.; Samaj, J.; Lin, J. Isolation of de-exined pollen and cytological studies of the pollen intines of Pinus bungeana Zucc. Ex Endl. and Picea wilsonii Mast. Flora 2008, 203, 332–340. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  134. Knox, R.B. The pollen grain. In Embryology of Angiosperms, 1st ed.; Johri, B.M., Ed.; Springer: Berlin, Germany, 1984; pp. 197–271. [Google Scholar]
  135. Knox, R.; Heslop-Harrison, J. Pollen-wall proteins: The fate of intine-held antigens on the stigma in compatible and incompatible pollinations of Phalaris tuberosa L. J. Cell Sci. 1971, 9, 239–251. [Google Scholar]
  136. Scott, R.J.; Spielman, M.; Dickinson, H.G. Stamen structure and function. Plant. Cell 2004, 16 (Suppl. S1), 46–60. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  137. Pacini, E.; Guarnieri, M.; Nepi, M. Pollen carbohydrates and water content during development, presentation, and dispersal: A short review. Protoplasma 2006, 228, 73–77. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  138. T’ai, H.R.; Buchmann, S.L. A phylogenetic reconsideration of the pollen starch–pollination correlation. Evol. Ecol. Res. 2000, 2, 627–643. [Google Scholar]
  139. Green, F.J. The Sigma-Aldrich Handbook of Stains, Dyes, and Indicators; Aldrich Chemical Company Inc: Milwaukee, WI, USA, 1990. [Google Scholar]
  140. Wood, G.D.; Gabriel, A.M.; Lawson, J.C. Palynological Techniques-processing and microscopy. In Palynology: Principles and Applications, 1st ed.; Jansonius, J., McGregor, D.C., Eds.; American Association of Stratigraphic Palynologists Foundation: Salt Lake City, UT, USA, 1996; pp. 29–52. [Google Scholar]
  141. Reynolds, E.S. The use of lead citrate at high pH as an electron opaque stain in electron microscopy. J. Cell Biol. 1963, 17, 208–212. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed] [Green Version]
  142. Erdman, G. Pollen Morphology and Plant. Taxonomy. Angiosperms, 1st ed.; Hafner Publication Company: New York, NY, USA, 1966. [Google Scholar]
  143. Dybova-Jachowicz, S.; Sadowska, A. Palinology; PAN: Krakow, Poland, 2003. (In Polish) [Google Scholar]
Plants 09 01194 g001 550
Figure 1. (A–F). Tricolpate-porate pollen grains (A,C,E) and fragments of exine surface sculpture (B, D, E) in Rubus idaeus ‘Glen ample’: (A,B)—polar view, (A) semicircular arrangement of muri close to the apocolpium and parallel or arcuate arrangement between pori, (B) exine surface, visible parallel or arcuate arrangement of protuberances (arrow) along the equatorial axis, perforations with different diameters (double-headed arrow) in colpi between muri; (C,D)—equatorial view, (C) muri arranged along the polar axis in the mesocolpium, numerous perforations in colpi, (D) perforations aligned in rows, different diameters of perforations (double-headed arrow), varied width of colpi between muri (arrow); (E)—colpus and porus in the equatorial plane, visible colpus reaching the distal and proximal poles; (F)—varied diameter of perforations (double-headed arrow), visible muri (arrow). (A–F) - SEM.
Figure 1. (A–F). Tricolpate-porate pollen grains (A,C,E) and fragments of exine surface sculpture (B, D, E) in Rubus idaeus ‘Glen ample’: (A,B)—polar view, (A) semicircular arrangement of muri close to the apocolpium and parallel or arcuate arrangement between pori, (B) exine surface, visible parallel or arcuate arrangement of protuberances (arrow) along the equatorial axis, perforations with different diameters (double-headed arrow) in colpi between muri; (C,D)—equatorial view, (C) muri arranged along the polar axis in the mesocolpium, numerous perforations in colpi, (D) perforations aligned in rows, different diameters of perforations (double-headed arrow), varied width of colpi between muri (arrow); (E)—colpus and porus in the equatorial plane, visible colpus reaching the distal and proximal poles; (F)—varied diameter of perforations (double-headed arrow), visible muri (arrow). (A–F) - SEM.
Plants 09 01194 g001
Plants 09 01194 g002 550
Figure 2. (A–F). Pollen grains (A,C,E) and fragments of exine surface sculpture (B,D,E) in Rubus idaeus ‘Laszka’: (A,B)—polar view, (A) pori visible in colpi, striated surface sculpture and perforations, (B)—striated exine surface, different distances between muri (arrow), perforations with different diameters (double-headed arrow) in colpi between muri; (C,D)—equatorial view, visible muri arranged in parallel and along the polar axis with an undulating or semicircular curve; numerous perforations in colpi, (D) muri (arrow) arranged in parallel or in an arcuate curve, dense distribution of perforations (double-headed arrow) in colpi, different diameters of perforations; €—colpus extending to the poles, numerous perforations visible in the exine; (F)—perforations (double-headed arrow) arranged in rows in colpi, visible differences in the diameter of perforations. (A–F) - SEM.
Figure 2. (A–F). Pollen grains (A,C,E) and fragments of exine surface sculpture (B,D,E) in Rubus idaeus ‘Laszka’: (A,B)—polar view, (A) pori visible in colpi, striated surface sculpture and perforations, (B)—striated exine surface, different distances between muri (arrow), perforations with different diameters (double-headed arrow) in colpi between muri; (C,D)—equatorial view, visible muri arranged in parallel and along the polar axis with an undulating or semicircular curve; numerous perforations in colpi, (D) muri (arrow) arranged in parallel or in an arcuate curve, dense distribution of perforations (double-headed arrow) in colpi, different diameters of perforations; €—colpus extending to the poles, numerous perforations visible in the exine; (F)—perforations (double-headed arrow) arranged in rows in colpi, visible differences in the diameter of perforations. (A–F) - SEM.
Plants 09 01194 g002
Plants 09 01194 g003 550
Figure 3. (A–F). Pollen grains (A,C,E) and fragments of exine surface sculpture (B,D,E) in Rubus idaeus ‘Radziejowa’: (A,B)—polar view, (A) muri arranged in parallel along the colpus, with an arcuate bend in the middle part between colpi, sometimes branched near the apocolpium, (B) distinctly visible muri (arrow), different width of colpi and diameter of perforations (double-headed arrow), visible striation arranged radially at perforations and perpendicular to muri; (C,D)—equatorial view, (C) muri running towards the polar axis with varied arrangement: parallel, arcuate, and overlapping, (D)—perforations with different diameters (double-headed arrow), visible radial exine striation around perforations with different heights of protuberances and arranged perpendicular to muri (arrow); (E)—colpus reaching the poles with a visible porus, exine with numerous perforations; (F)—several rows of perforations (double-headed arrow) in the colpus, visible delicate striation around the perforation and on the surface of muri (arrow). (A–F) - SEM.
Figure 3. (A–F). Pollen grains (A,C,E) and fragments of exine surface sculpture (B,D,E) in Rubus idaeus ‘Radziejowa’: (A,B)—polar view, (A) muri arranged in parallel along the colpus, with an arcuate bend in the middle part between colpi, sometimes branched near the apocolpium, (B) distinctly visible muri (arrow), different width of colpi and diameter of perforations (double-headed arrow), visible striation arranged radially at perforations and perpendicular to muri; (C,D)—equatorial view, (C) muri running towards the polar axis with varied arrangement: parallel, arcuate, and overlapping, (D)—perforations with different diameters (double-headed arrow), visible radial exine striation around perforations with different heights of protuberances and arranged perpendicular to muri (arrow); (E)—colpus reaching the poles with a visible porus, exine with numerous perforations; (F)—several rows of perforations (double-headed arrow) in the colpus, visible delicate striation around the perforation and on the surface of muri (arrow). (A–F) - SEM.
Plants 09 01194 g003
Plants 09 01194 g004 550
Figure 4. (A–F). Pollen grains (A,C,E) and fragments of exine surface sculpture (B,D,F) in Rubus idaeus ‘Pokusa’: (A,B)—polar view, (A) semicircular muri near the apocolpium and longitudinal, often arcuate, muri between colpi, numerous perforations, (B) semicircular arrangement of adjacent muri (arrow), perforations with different diameters (double-headed arrow), visible thin striation with a radial arrangement around the perforation and lateral arrangement on the surface of muri; (C,D)—equatorial view, (C) muri arranged side by side in a parallel, sometimes arcuate or branching arrangement, perforations with different diameters, (D) overlapping or parallel muri, fine striae arranged radially around perforations (double-headed arrow) and transversely on the surface of protuberances; (E)—equatorial view, colpi reaching the poles, numerous perforations; (F)—muri (arrow) in parallel arrangement, sometimes branched, different widths of colpi, fine radially arranged striation (double arrows) around perforations (double-headed arrow), transverse arrangement on the surface of muri, and multidirectional arrangement on the surface of colpi between perforations. (A–F) - SEM.
Figure 4. (A–F). Pollen grains (A,C,E) and fragments of exine surface sculpture (B,D,F) in Rubus idaeus ‘Pokusa’: (A,B)—polar view, (A) semicircular muri near the apocolpium and longitudinal, often arcuate, muri between colpi, numerous perforations, (B) semicircular arrangement of adjacent muri (arrow), perforations with different diameters (double-headed arrow), visible thin striation with a radial arrangement around the perforation and lateral arrangement on the surface of muri; (C,D)—equatorial view, (C) muri arranged side by side in a parallel, sometimes arcuate or branching arrangement, perforations with different diameters, (D) overlapping or parallel muri, fine striae arranged radially around perforations (double-headed arrow) and transversely on the surface of protuberances; (E)—equatorial view, colpi reaching the poles, numerous perforations; (F)—muri (arrow) in parallel arrangement, sometimes branched, different widths of colpi, fine radially arranged striation (double arrows) around perforations (double-headed arrow), transverse arrangement on the surface of muri, and multidirectional arrangement on the surface of colpi between perforations. (A–F) - SEM.
Plants 09 01194 g004
Plants 09 01194 g005 550
Figure 5. (A–F). Pollen grains (A,C,E) and fragments of exine surface sculpture (B,D,F) in Rubus idaeus ‘Polana’: (A,B)—polar view, (A) parallel arrangement of muri in the apocolpium, arcuate arrangement, or branching between the colpi, (B) rows of perforations (double-headed arrow) between muri (arrow), fine striation with characteristic loose radial arrangement of striae around perforations (two arrows) perpendicular to muri; (C,D)—equatorial view, (C) parallel, undulating, and arcuate arrangement of muri along the polar axis, (D) striated-perforated exine sculpture, distinct undulating muri, branching in some areas, fine striae in radial arrangement at the perforations (double arrow); (E)—equatorial view of a grain, visible colpus with a porus and pollenkitt (arrowhead); (F)—rows of perforations (double-headed arrow) in the colpi of parallel muri (arrow) with a semicircular curve, dichotomously branched muri along the polar axis, fine striae around perforations (double arrow) and perpendicular arrangement on the surface of muri. (A–F) - SEM.
Figure 5. (A–F). Pollen grains (A,C,E) and fragments of exine surface sculpture (B,D,F) in Rubus idaeus ‘Polana’: (A,B)—polar view, (A) parallel arrangement of muri in the apocolpium, arcuate arrangement, or branching between the colpi, (B) rows of perforations (double-headed arrow) between muri (arrow), fine striation with characteristic loose radial arrangement of striae around perforations (two arrows) perpendicular to muri; (C,D)—equatorial view, (C) parallel, undulating, and arcuate arrangement of muri along the polar axis, (D) striated-perforated exine sculpture, distinct undulating muri, branching in some areas, fine striae in radial arrangement at the perforations (double arrow); (E)—equatorial view of a grain, visible colpus with a porus and pollenkitt (arrowhead); (F)—rows of perforations (double-headed arrow) in the colpi of parallel muri (arrow) with a semicircular curve, dichotomously branched muri along the polar axis, fine striae around perforations (double arrow) and perpendicular arrangement on the surface of muri. (A–F) - SEM.
Plants 09 01194 g005
Plants 09 01194 g006 550
Figure 6. (A–F). Pollen grains (A,C,E) and fragments of exine surface sculpture (B,D,F) in Rubus idaeus ‘Polka’: (A,B)—polar view, visible delicate outline of arcuate or branched muri in the apocolpium, distinct protuberances between colpi, perforations in colpi, (B) dense parallel to semicircular arrangement of muri, varied diameter of perforations arranged in rows between parallel muri; (C,D)—equatorial view, (C) colpi reaching the poles, numerous perforations, parallel arrangement of muri along the polar axis with a semicircular curve, (D) parallel arrangement of muri (arrow), varied diameter of perforations between muri; (E)—equatorial view of a grain, visible colpus reaching the poles, numerous perforations; (F)—parallel and branched muri (arrow), varied arrangement and diameter of perforations (double-headed arrow). (A–F) - SEM.
Figure 6. (A–F). Pollen grains (A,C,E) and fragments of exine surface sculpture (B,D,F) in Rubus idaeus ‘Polka’: (A,B)—polar view, visible delicate outline of arcuate or branched muri in the apocolpium, distinct protuberances between colpi, perforations in colpi, (B) dense parallel to semicircular arrangement of muri, varied diameter of perforations arranged in rows between parallel muri; (C,D)—equatorial view, (C) colpi reaching the poles, numerous perforations, parallel arrangement of muri along the polar axis with a semicircular curve, (D) parallel arrangement of muri (arrow), varied diameter of perforations between muri; (E)—equatorial view of a grain, visible colpus reaching the poles, numerous perforations; (F)—parallel and branched muri (arrow), varied arrangement and diameter of perforations (double-headed arrow). (A–F) - SEM.
Plants 09 01194 g006
Plants 09 01194 g007 550
Figure 7. (A–D). Fragments of pollen grains in R. idaeus ‘Glen Ample’: (A,B)—tectum (t), perforations (double-headed arrow), pollenkitt (asterisk), columellae (c), foot layer (f), endoexine (e), intine (i), numerous electron-dense structures (arrows) indicated by arrows in photo. B; (C)—protoplast with electron-dense cytoplasm, starch grains (s) in amyloplasts; (D)—characteristic concentric arrangement of electron-dense structures marked with arrows in phot. B. (A–D) - TEM.
Figure 7. (A–D). Fragments of pollen grains in R. idaeus ‘Glen Ample’: (A,B)—tectum (t), perforations (double-headed arrow), pollenkitt (asterisk), columellae (c), foot layer (f), endoexine (e), intine (i), numerous electron-dense structures (arrows) indicated by arrows in photo. B; (C)—protoplast with electron-dense cytoplasm, starch grains (s) in amyloplasts; (D)—characteristic concentric arrangement of electron-dense structures marked with arrows in phot. B. (A–D) - TEM.
Plants 09 01194 g007
Plants 09 01194 g008 550
Figure 8. (A–E). Fragments of pollen grains in R. idaeus ‘Laszka’: (A,B)—perforated tectum (t), visible perforations (double-headed arrow), columellae (c), pollenkitt (asterisk), foot layer (f), endoexine (e), numerous electron-dense structures (arrow) located at the intine (i); (C)—electron-dense cytoplasm with numerous plastoglobules (two asterisks); (D)—Golgi apparatus (G); (E)—concentric lamellar system of electron-dense structures marked with arrows in photo. B. (A—E) – TEM.
Figure 8. (A–E). Fragments of pollen grains in R. idaeus ‘Laszka’: (A,B)—perforated tectum (t), visible perforations (double-headed arrow), columellae (c), pollenkitt (asterisk), foot layer (f), endoexine (e), numerous electron-dense structures (arrow) located at the intine (i); (C)—electron-dense cytoplasm with numerous plastoglobules (two asterisks); (D)—Golgi apparatus (G); (E)—concentric lamellar system of electron-dense structures marked with arrows in photo. B. (A—E) – TEM.
Plants 09 01194 g008
Plants 09 01194 g009 550
Figure 9. (A–G). Fragments of pollen grains in R. idaeus ‘Radziejowa’: (A,B)—tectum (t) with perforations (double-headed arrow), columellae (c), foot layer (f), endoexine (e), Golgi apparatus (G) and a mitochondrion (m), e electron-dense structures (arrows) located at the intine (i); (C)—numerous mitochondria (m) and Golgi apparatus (G), dictyosomal vesicles (arrowheads); (D)—plastoglobules (two asterisks), plastids (p). (A–D) - TEM.
Figure 9. (A–G). Fragments of pollen grains in R. idaeus ‘Radziejowa’: (A,B)—tectum (t) with perforations (double-headed arrow), columellae (c), foot layer (f), endoexine (e), Golgi apparatus (G) and a mitochondrion (m), e electron-dense structures (arrows) located at the intine (i); (C)—numerous mitochondria (m) and Golgi apparatus (G), dictyosomal vesicles (arrowheads); (D)—plastoglobules (two asterisks), plastids (p). (A–D) - TEM.
Plants 09 01194 g009
Plants 09 01194 g010 550
Figure 10. (A–D). Fragments of pollen grains in R. idaeus ‘Pokusa’: (A,B)—tectum (t), perforation (double-headed arrow), pollenkitt (asterisk), columellae (c) and a foot layer (f), endoexine (e), intine (i) adjacent to numerous electron-dense structures (arrows) in the protoplast; (C)—protoplast, visible plastoglobules (two asterisks), mitochondrion (m), starch grain (s) in the amyloplast, Golgi apparatus (G); (D)—dense protoplast with plastoglobules (two asterisks), (A–D) - TEM.
Figure 10. (A–D). Fragments of pollen grains in R. idaeus ‘Pokusa’: (A,B)—tectum (t), perforation (double-headed arrow), pollenkitt (asterisk), columellae (c) and a foot layer (f), endoexine (e), intine (i) adjacent to numerous electron-dense structures (arrows) in the protoplast; (C)—protoplast, visible plastoglobules (two asterisks), mitochondrion (m), starch grain (s) in the amyloplast, Golgi apparatus (G); (D)—dense protoplast with plastoglobules (two asterisks), (A–D) - TEM.
Plants 09 01194 g010
Plants 09 01194 g011 550
Figure 11. (A–D). Fragments of pollen grains in R. idaeus ‘Polana’: (A)—tectum (t), pollenkitt (asterisk), columellae (c), foot layer (f), electron-dense structures in the protoplast (arrows) located at the intine (i); (B)—intine (i), numerous electron-dense structures (arrows), plastoglobules (two arrows), mitochondrion (m), elongated plastid (p) with a visible thylakoid system; (C)—starch grain (s) in the amyloplast, plastoglobules (two asteriks), plastid (p); (D)—Golgi apparatus (G), dictyosomal vesicles (arrowheads), mitochondrion (m), endoplasmic reticulum (ER). (A–D) - TEM.
Figure 11. (A–D). Fragments of pollen grains in R. idaeus ‘Polana’: (A)—tectum (t), pollenkitt (asterisk), columellae (c), foot layer (f), electron-dense structures in the protoplast (arrows) located at the intine (i); (B)—intine (i), numerous electron-dense structures (arrows), plastoglobules (two arrows), mitochondrion (m), elongated plastid (p) with a visible thylakoid system; (C)—starch grain (s) in the amyloplast, plastoglobules (two asteriks), plastid (p); (D)—Golgi apparatus (G), dictyosomal vesicles (arrowheads), mitochondrion (m), endoplasmic reticulum (ER). (A–D) - TEM.
Plants 09 01194 g011
Plants 09 01194 g012 550
Figure 12. (A–D). Fragments of pollen grains in R. idaeus ‘Polka’: (A,B)—tectum (t), pollenkitt (asteriks) (phot. A), columellae (c), foot layer (f), endoexine (e), electron-dense structures (arrow) near the intine (i); (C)—electron-dense protoplast, plastoglobules (two asterisks); (D)—electron-dense structures with a regular concentric arrangement. (A–D) - TEM.
Figure 12. (A–D). Fragments of pollen grains in R. idaeus ‘Polka’: (A,B)—tectum (t), pollenkitt (asteriks) (phot. A), columellae (c), foot layer (f), endoexine (e), electron-dense structures (arrow) near the intine (i); (C)—electron-dense protoplast, plastoglobules (two asterisks); (D)—electron-dense structures with a regular concentric arrangement. (A–D) - TEM.
Plants 09 01194 g012
Table
Table 1. Length of polar and equatorial axes and the shape index of pollen grains of R. idaeus cultivars.
Table 1. Length of polar and equatorial axes and the shape index of pollen grains of R. idaeus cultivars.
CultivarYearLength of Axis (μm)P/E
Polar Axis (P)Equatorial Axis (E)
Min.–Max.Mean ± SDMin.–Max.Mean ± SDMin.–Max.Mean ± SD
Biennial Fruiting Cultivars
‘Glen Ample’201624.40–29.8827.38 ± 1.31a24.58-29.5426.92 ± 1.51a0.95–1.221.02 ± 0.06a
201721.05–27.6824.57 ± 1.38a20.60–25.5323.01 ± 1.40b1.01–1.131.07 ± 0.04a
201824.57–29.7126.73 ± 1.22a22.09–26.6924.77 ± 1.08ab1.01–1.211.08 ± 0.06a
Mean-26.23 ± 1.77A-24.90 ± 2.08A-1.06 ± 0.06A
‘Laszka’201624.68–30.0227.55 ± 1.39ab22.06–25.3323.49 ± 0.92b1.02–1.301.17 ± 0.08a
201721.30–28.7724.49 ± 1.99b19.82–24.8422.20 ± 1.34b1.03–1.251.10 ± 0.05a
201825.99–28.9928.29 ± 0.78a24.15–27.3025.40 ± 0.87a1.06–1.201.11 ± 0.04a
Mean-26.78 ± 2.20A 23.70 ± 1.69A 1.13 ± 0.07A
‘Radziejowa’201623.00–33.0726.80 ± 2.40a23.06–29.9526.98 ± 1.69a0.84–1.141.01 ± 0.07a
201722.73–26.4325.13 ± 1.17a20.96–26.3123.87 ± 1.61ab1.00–1.251.06 ± 0.06a
201821.29–25.7223.83 ± 1.23a18.93–23.9721.35 ± 1.85b1.02–1.251.12 ± 0.08a
Mean-25.31 ± 1.88A-24.01 ± 2.97A-1.06 ± 0.08A
Cultivars With Repeated Fruiting
‘Pokusa’201625.20–29.0427.56 ± 1.06a25.01–29.4626.91 ± 1.19a0.93–1.151.03 ± 0.06a
201725.21–31.2927.98 ± 1.69a22.92–27.0225.25 ± 1.46ab1.00–1.221.11 ± 0.07a
201824.43–28.9025.86 ± 1.39a22.19–25.8724.16 ± 1.05b0.98–1.171.07 ± 0.06a
Mean-27.13 ± 1.66A-25.44 ± 1.67A-1.07 ± 0.07A
‘Polana’201625.07–30.6327.73 ± 1.74a19.60–28.8823.92 ± 2.25a0.92–1.371.17 ± 0.12a
201722.00–27.0025.39 ± 1.52a20.67–25.8422.75 ± 1.68a1.01–1.281.12 ± 0.10a
201824.04–29.2926.46 ± 1.58a22.20–27.9725.66 ± 1.44a0.92–1.141.03 ± 0.07a
Mean-26.53 ± 1.86A-24.11 ± 2.16A-1.11 ± 0.11A
‘Polka’201625.07–30.6327.73 ± 1.74a19.60–28.8823.92 ± 2.25b0.92–1.371.17 ± 0.12a
201723.36–29.0026.91 ± 1.42a25.37–28.6826.68 ± 0.97ab0.87–1.091.01 ± 0.05a
201826.65–32.1429.45 ± 1.59a25.46–32.2028.55 ± 1.39a0.83–1.191.03 ± 0.08a
Mean-28.03 ± 1.89A-26.38 ± 2.50A-1.07 ± 0.11A
Means followed by the same small letter are not significantly different within the cultivar for the years and means followed by the same capital letter do not differ between the cultivars at a significance level α = 0.05; SD standard deviation.
Table
Table 2. Width of muri, distance between muri, and number of muri per unit area of exine in pollen grains of the examined R. idaeus cultivars.
Table 2. Width of muri, distance between muri, and number of muri per unit area of exine in pollen grains of the examined R. idaeus cultivars.
Cultivars Width of MuriDistance Between MuriNumber of Muri
Per 10 µm2
Min.–Max.Mean ± SDMin.–Max.Mean ± SDMin.–Max.Mean ± SD
nmMuri/10 µm2
Biennial Fruiting Cultivars
‘Glen Ample’320–490417. 50 ± 51.32a560–870786.25 ± 91.86a5.48–9.048.15 ± 1.01b
‘Laszka’240–360298.13 ± 30.16b490–640574.38 ± 54.28bc8.92–12.4211.22 ± 1.01a
‘Radziejowa’190–330247.75 ± 35.87bc660–890781.88 ± 70.26a7.42–13.6710.77 ± 1.88ab
Cultivars with Repeated Fruiting
‘Pokusa’130–210161.88 ± 23.73d480–780685.63 ± 90.04ab7.67–13.5611.55 ± 1.71a
‘Polana’180–250203.13 ± 24.69c420–710521.88 ± 69.50cd8.03–12.6710.98 ± 1.53a
‘Polka’120–210156.25 ± 29.18d360–620439.83 ± 68.65d9.92–14.9713.03 ± 1.69a
Means followed by the same small letter are not significantly different between cultivars differ at significance level α = 0.05. SD – standard deviation.
Table
Table 3. Diameter of perforations and number of perforations on a fragment of colpus length and per exine unit area in pollen grains of the examined R. idaeus cultivars.
Table 3. Diameter of perforations and number of perforations on a fragment of colpus length and per exine unit area in pollen grains of the examined R. idaeus cultivars.
Cultivars Diameter of PerforationsNumber of Perforations on the Surface of
Min.Max.2-µm Long Colpus10 µm2 of Exine
Min.–Max.Mean ± SDMin.–Max.Mean±SDMin.–Max.Mean ± SDMin.–Max.Mean ± SD
nmPerforations/2 µmPerforations/10 µm2
Biennial Fruiting Cultivars
‘Glen Ample’90–150117.50 ± 17.70e100–220151.88 ± 28.10d3.70–7.025.40 ± 0.95ab41.14–74.2959.06 ± 10.63b
‘Laszka’210–290248.75 ± 22.77ab250–450323.75 ± 54.39a2.08–5.184.24 ± 0.79b56.66–71.0265.01 ± 4.46b
‘Radziejowa’200–330258.13 ± 44,46a210–390306.25 ± 59.09a4.53–8.036.40 ± 1.19a70.65–130.4391.97 ± 18.87a
Cultivars with Repeated Fruiting
‘Pokusa’120–220167.50 ± 24.36cd160–260208.75 ± 31.60bc2.01–3.972.68 ± 0.53c32.84–47.0638.47 ± 4.11c
‘Polana’130–240193.75 ± 38.62bc210–310268.75 ± 32.84ab5.03–8.136.29 ± 1.01a60.91–89.5575.35 ± 6.71ab
‘Polka’110–170131.25 ± 21.25de120–220173.13 ± 29.38cd5.05–8.796.82 ± 1.15a49.51–88.6171.68 ± 9.64ab
Designations as in Table 2.
Table
Table 4. Characteristics of selected traits of the ectoexine in the pollen grains of the examined R. idaeus cultivars (nm).
Table 4. Characteristics of selected traits of the ectoexine in the pollen grains of the examined R. idaeus cultivars (nm).
CultivarsThickness of TectumHeight of ColumellaeThickness of ColumellaeDistance Between ColumellaeThickness of Foot Layer
Min.–Max.Mean ± SDMin.–Max.Mean ± SDMin.–Max.Mean ±SDMin.–Max.Mean ± SDMin.–Max.Mean ±SD
Biennial Fruiting Cultivars
‘Glen Ample’360–540430.75 ± 48.51a260–510402.50 ± 73.89a180–310241.88 ± 40.53a270 ± 490406.67 ± 69.73a110–190148.63 ± 23.34a
‘Laszka’170–250209.06 ± 23.11c240–390299.06 ± 49.61a200–290238.69 ± 25.35a230 ± 360296.69 ± 37.85b70–9077.75 ± 9.43d
‘Radziejowa’170–280210.88 ± 36.02bc280–470348.13 ± 61.03a190–260228.13 ± 18.34a250 ± 380331.88 ± 37.10b90–120103.13 ± 11.96bc
Cultivars with Repeated Fruiting
‘Pokusa’200–270227.50 ± 24.90bc270–390335.00 ± 40.33a170–260208.13 ± 28.57a260–370321.25–37.75b90–130109.38 ± 9.98bc
‘Polana’210–360307.50 ± 43.13b300–430369.38 ± 54.59a210–320261.25 ± 35.94a250 ± 390339.38–39.58ab80–130110.04 ± 16.73c
‘Polka’190–310250.00 ± 43.67bc290–440365.01 ± 38.64a200–320251.88 ± 34.10a220 ± 430330.63–58.71b110–150132.50 ± 16.13a
Designations as in Table 2.
Table
Table 5. Thickness of the ectoexine, endoexine, intine, and cell wall of pollen grains of R. idaeus cultivars (nm).
Table 5. Thickness of the ectoexine, endoexine, intine, and cell wall of pollen grains of R. idaeus cultivars (nm).
CultivarsEctoexineEndoexineExineIntineCell Wall
Min.–Max.Mean ± SDMin.–Max.Mean ± SDMin.–Max.Mean ± SDMin.–Max.Mean ± SDMin.–Max.Mean ± SD
Biennial Fruiting Cultivars
‘Glen Ample’810–1090981.88 ± 82.64a70–11090.42 ± 13.44ab920–11801072.26 ± 82.22a380–630498.00 ± 74.01a1410–17401570.26 ± 104.13a
‘Laszka’500–690585.87 ± 62.02c50–9076.38 ± 15.04b580–780662.25 ± 67.52d250–450316.88 ± 54.46bc850–1177979.13 ± 100.47b
‘Radziejowa’550–740662.14 ± 54.63c60–9082.09 ± 9.10b620–820744.21 ± 55.30d320–480393.75 ± 53.77b880–11201137.96 ± 67.42b
Cultivars with Repeated Fruiting
‘Pokusa’600–740671.88 ± 44.46bc70–10085.63 ± 8.92ab690–830757.50 ± 44.35cd210–350272.50 ± 37.15cd900–11301030.00 ± 64.81b
‘Polana’640–890786.92 ± 67.50b70–10091.88 ± 9.11ab740–980878.75 ± 67.61bc410–640540.63 ± 66.28a1170–15901419.38 ± 111.56a
‘Polka’680–840747.51 ± 46.98b90–130107.50 ± 13.42a800–940855.00 ± 47.61b160–260228.75 ± 30.30d990–12001083.75 ± 55.12b
Designations as in Table 2.

Share and Cite

MDPI and ACS Style

Kostryco, M.; Chwil, M.; Matraszek-Gawron, R. Comparison of the Micromorphology and Ultrastructure of Pollen Grains of Selected Rubus idaeus L. Cultivars Grown in Commercial Plantation. Plants 2020, 9, 1194. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9091194

AMA Style

Kostryco M, Chwil M, Matraszek-Gawron R. Comparison of the Micromorphology and Ultrastructure of Pollen Grains of Selected Rubus idaeus L. Cultivars Grown in Commercial Plantation. Plants. 2020; 9(9):1194. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9091194

Chicago/Turabian Style

Kostryco, Mikołaj, Mirosława Chwil, and Renata Matraszek-Gawron. 2020. "Comparison of the Micromorphology and Ultrastructure of Pollen Grains of Selected Rubus idaeus L. Cultivars Grown in Commercial Plantation" Plants 9, no. 9: 1194. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9091194

Note that from the first issue of 2016, this journal uses article numbers instead of page numbers. See further details here.

Article Metrics

Back to TopTop