Autogamy ensures reproductive success in the bromeliad Dyckia dissitiflora Schult.f., endemic to the Brazilian caatinga domain

Abstract

The genus Dyckia (Bromeliaceae) is endemic to South America, and its species show important ecological roles in xeric environments. The flowering phenology as well as floral and reproductive biology were monitored monthly in Dyckia dissitiflora at two sites (Bela Vista: 11°42′03.4″ S 39°05′21.7″ W and Barra do Vento: 11°37′58.1″ S 39°03′33.7″ W) in the municipality of Serrinha, Bahia, Brazil. Flowering occurs in the early austral summer with a peculiar time of beginning of anthesis (10:00–11:00), offering resources 18 h after the first petal movements. Pollen viability was 98%, with a high production of pollen grains. Stigma receptivity is continuous from flower opening to senescence, and nectar production initiates at 04:00 and extends until 18:00. The species is self‐compatible and autogamous, but not agamospermic. Pollen tubes developed and reached the micropyle within 24 h in all of the reproductive tests. The hummingbird Chlorostilbon lucidus was the only floral visitor and pollinator (frequency = 0.82 ± 0.02). Fruiting occurs 3 days after anthesis, and the seeds are wind‐dispersed. Self‐compatibility and autogamy are essential strategies for the reproductive success of D. dissitiflora in light of the low number and visit frequency of its pollinators, and it is favored by slow floral movements and the position of the stigmas in relation to stamens.