A contribution to the life-history of Sonerila Wallichii Benn

Abstract

An account of the life-history of Sonerila Wallichii with reference to microsporogenesis, megasporogenesis and embryogeny is presented in this paper. The chromosome number as determined in the pollen mother cells is eight. The ovules are bitegumentary with mostly a single and rarely multiple archesporium. Further developmental stages of the multiple archesporium to double tetrad stages have been noticed. A hypostase-like tissue at the chalazal region is prominently seen. The development of the embryosac conforms to the normal 8-nucleate type. Endosperm is nuclear and the type of development of the embryo is akin to the Capsella-type. The basal cell of the suspensor divides by vertical walls and forms a vertical group of six cells. Some of these might further develop into groups of cells resembling multiple embryos.