Flexistyly–A Structural and Functional Contrivance for Successful Pollination in Lathyrus aphaca L.

Angiospermic plants are known to follow a wide range of breeding systems from obligate inbreeding to complete outbreeding. Legumes among these exhibit inbreeding as the predominant mode, which they achieve by self pollination. The sexual apparatus of Lathyrus aphaca L. seems to favour out-crossing both structurally and functionally. However, an interesting mechanism known as ‘Flexistyly’ facilitates and ensures fruit production through autogamy. A part of style bears trichomes known as ‘pollen brush’ which undergoes curvature, exhibits movements and deflects towards the dehisced anther to catch hold of maximum pollen for its reproductive assurance. The present communication elaborates this fascinating mechanism.