Cytomixis in pollen mother cells of an apomictic ornamental Ervatamia divaricata (Linn.) alston.

Cytomixis has been observed throughout the year in the pollen mother cells of an apomictic ornamental Ervatamia divaricata (Linn.) Alston (var. single). The frequency of cytomixis was found to be more (8.66-13.95%) during the months of March to June in all the plants. Direct fusion of two pollen mother cells and involvement of a series of PMC's by one or more cytoplasmic connections were also noted.The regular occurrence of this behaviour in all the individuals and in successive years suggests the possibility of genetic control of the process, manifestation being dependent on physiological state of the tissue. Cytomixis, coupled with irregular number and other genetic factors, might have contributed to the failure of sexual reproduction. The absence of seed setting does not indicate any significant role of cytomixis in generating variability in this species.