Abstract

Emphasis of this work is on reproductive biology and biochemical changes in Bamboos. Bamboos are woody perennial plants belonging to the family Poaceae. Due to its versatility it has been a raw material for numerous applications and a viable replacement for wood. The demand for bamboos is growing more than its production and hence seeds/propagules are required in abundance for large scale cultivation of desired species. Based on post flowering behaviour bamboos are divided into two groups viz., Profuse/sparse flowering followed by reversion to vegetative phase and profuse flowering and seed formation followed by death. Reproductive biology and biochemical changes associated with flowering of two bamboo species showing different post flowering behaviour viz., Dendrocalamus stocksii and Ochlandra travancorica were observed. D. stocksii flowering was observed during 2003-2006 in northern Kerala, and O. travancorica during 2004-2006 in southern Kerala. From the observations, the sterility in D. stocksii could be attributed to the less quantity of pollen produced, viability of pollen, percentage of anthesis, short receptivity of stigma etc.

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