Nectary structure and nectar secretion in Maxillaria coccinea (Jacq.) L.O. Williams ex Hodge (Orchidaceae).

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

It had previously been assumed that Maxillaria spp. produce no nectar. However, nectar has recently been observed in Maxillaria coccinea (Jacq.) L.O. Williams ex Hodge amongst other species. Furthermore, it is speculated that M. coccinea may be pollinated by hummingbirds. The aim of this paper is to investigate these claims further.

Methods

Light microscopy, histochemistry, scanning and transmission electron microscopy.

Key results

This is the first detailed account of nectar secretion in Maxillaria Ruiz & Pav. A 'faucet and sink' arrangement occurs in M. coccinea. Here, the nectary is represented by a small protuberance upon the ventral surface of the column and nectar collects in a semi-saccate reservoir formed by the fusion of the labellum and t

SUBMITTER: Stpiczynska M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4242262 | biostudies-literature | 2004 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature