Pollen Analysis in Brassicaceae
Why is it Important to Measure Brassicaceae Pollen Quality?
Sufficient pollen viability and pollen amount are essential for a high seed set and are indispensable for a cost-efficient seed production. Identifying high pollen quality lines as early as during the breeding process saves both time and resources not only in breeding, but also later in production research and seed production. Additionally, this valuable analysis provides breeders with an in-depth knowledge about the genotype-phenotype interaction, helps to avoid environmentally induced plant stress by suggesting the proper line placement in respect to the climate zones, and decreases the chance of unsuccessful pollination.
Our Brassicaceae chip features automated data analysis of pollen viability and quantity for Brassicaceae vegetables and oilseed rape (canola). It provides instant results in a time and resource efficient way.
Ask the experts!
We provide support & consultancy for the optimization of your pollen analyses for breeding and production processes
Characterization of pollen quality of inbred lines and hybrids in breeding
- Identify the best pollinators
- Check successful fertility restoration
Improvement of Brassicaceae seed production
- Avoid pollination deficiencies by improving seed production planning
- Preserve pollen and increase success in artificial pollination
Characterization of Pollen Quality of Inbred Lines and Hybrids in Breeding
Viable pollen is a basic requirement for successful pollination. However, the viability can differ between the lines. Our Brassicaceae chip with automated data analysis offers a fast, reliable, and cost-efficient solution for line-screening.
Identify the best pollinators - Line-screening
In a broccoli trial, pollen of different varieties was analyzed. The illustration shows the variation of pollen viability across 30 different lines, all grown under the same conditions in a greenhouse. Pollen screening enables the identification of the best-performing lines, based on pollen viability. Lines with a high pollen viability, in combination with a low amount of aberrant cells, promise high seed set and less problems in production research and seed production. Bad pollinators, characterized by low viability and a high share of aberrant pollen cells, should therefore not be further considered for seed production.
Improvement of Brassicaceae Seed Production
Seed production yield of Brassicaceae crops can be strongly influenced by environmental factors, such as heat and drought stress. The appearance and amount of aberrant cells, which are aborted cells during pollen development, is a strong indicator for abiotic stress. The measurement of pollen viability and determination of aberrant cells with our technology should therefore be a standard parameter in line characterization and considered for purposeful crop-placement.
Avoid pollination deficiencies by improving seed production planning by detection of stressed lines
The plot represents the difference between a heat-stressed and non-stressed line. The large proportion of aberrant cells in the stressed line goes in parallel with a much lower number of viable cells and indicates a much lower tolerance to the climatic conditions. Seed production of this line should therefore take place under more moderate conditions or should not be further considered for seed production.
Amphasys Pollen Analyzers
Amphasys Pollen Analyzers provide pollen quality metrics which enable you to improve your plant breeding and seed production processes:
The Ampha Z40 is a high-end laboratory device. It offers full flexibility for all research tasks and predefined templates for routine quality control.
The Ampha P20 is a mobile high-tech instrument for greenhouses and fields. With its easy handling and automated data analysis you get immediate results on site.