Reproductive biology and intra-population genome size variations of endemic tripleurospermum heterolopis and T.ziganaense (asteraceae) species

In this study, the reproductive characteristics and within population genome size variations of the endemic Tripleurospermum heterolepis (Freyn & Sint.) Bornmüller and T.ziganaense İnceer & Hayirlioglu-Ayaz species were examined for the first time. Within the scope of reproductive biology, studies have been carried out pollen viability, stigma maturity, seed viability, achene germination and survival success. Additionally, it was investigated whether the species reproduced sexually or asexually using the flow cytometric seed screening method. Flow cytometry was also performed to determine within population genome size variation. According to the data obtained, pollen viability and seed viability in both species are over 70%, achene germination rate is over 90%, and the survival rate of embryonic plants is 100%. Stigma receptivity is negative in the pre-flowering period and well positive in the flowering period. According to the data obtained as a result of flow cytometric seed screening analyses, the endosperm:embryo ratio is below 1.5 in both species. Within population genome size variation is 12% in T. heterolepis and 18% in T. ziganaense. With these data obtained, contributions were made to studies on the conservation biology of species.