| Abstract: | The development and structure of the floral nectaries of Capsella bursa-pastoris (L.) Medic. were examined. The nectaries consisted of four separated parts which were semiorbicular and were morphologically and anatomically similar to one another. They were located at the receptacle between stamens, and each part was composed of secretory epidermis, nectariferous tissue and vascular bundles, belonging to structural nectary. When the various floral organs were developed, 2--3 superficial layer cells of the receptacle between stamens became meristemoid and contributed to primordia the formation of nectary. By intercalary meristematic activity, the four nectaries formed synchronously. During the different stages of nectary differentiation, the content of starch gra ins and vacuolation in the cells of epidermis and nectariferous tissue changed regularly. According to the structural and histochemical changes the pre-nectar might be supplied by phloem. The nectar formed in nectariferous tissue was then secreted to the sub-stomatal chamber and where it was finally excreted from the stoma. |
