A prelude to in vitro fertilization in pearl millet- Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br.

This research is part of an attempt to establish In vitro fertilization in pearl millet which aids an understanding the mechanisms of fertilization. We demonstrate here co-culture of isolated embryo sacs with pollen grains and/or male gametes of pearl millet in two culture media. The pollen grains in the first medium pseudo germinated, while in the second medium germinated as in planta. The pollen tubes of some pollen grains were guided to the egg apparatus, while those of others were not. Precise guidance of pollen tubes to the eggs is crucial for successful fertilization. The probable reasons for the variation in the guidance of pollen tube growth to the egg apparatus are discussed.