Abstract

Eight fungicides namely Sumi-eight, Cupravit, Karatane, Topsin-M, Vitavax thiram, Beam, Benlate and Tecto at commercially recommended concentrations and at double concentrations were evaluated for their effects on pollen germination, tube growth and morphology of almond cultivar (Ferragness) in basic medium or control (100 mg L^-1 boric acid, 15% sucrose and 1% agar) at 24°C in dark condition. Results showed that different treatments had significant effects on the germination, tube growth and morphology of pollen. All fungicides reduced the percentage of pollen germination, length of germ-tube elongation and morphological features of almond pollens. The negative effects of fungicides on pollen germination percentage and germ-tube elongation and view of pollen morphology were variable and dependent on type and material concentrations. The highest pollen germination (100%) for almond cultivar (Ferragness) was recorded in 100 mg L^-1 boric acid, 15% sucrose and 1% agar medium (control). The lowest pollen germination percentage (0.0%) was found in 100 mg L^-1 boric acid, 15% sucrose and 1% agar medium contain 2 g L^-1Karatane.

Key words: Almond, culture pollen, fungicide, germination.