Reproductive systems of Hohenbergia Schult. & Schult.f. (Bromelioideae: Bromeliaceae) endemic to the Atlantic Forest

The intense fragmentation and anthropogenic pressure affecting the
Atlantic Forest highlight the need for species conservation,
particularly those in the genus Hohenbergia. The H. stellata complex
includes endemic species that rely on diverse reproductive
strategies, which are essential for their maintenance
and diversification. Research on the reproductive systems of
these species is crucial for understanding their adaptability and
ensuring their preservation. This study aimed to investigate the
reproductive systems of species within the Hohenbergia stellata
complex, analyzing the potential occurrence of reproductive
barriers and their reliance on cross-pollination. The
pollen-to-ovule ratio was assessed, along with various
methods for evaluating reproductive systems in H. amargosensis,
H. belemii, H. capitata, H. ituberaensis, H. nidularioides, H. rosea, and
H. stellata. Hohenbergia capitata and H. nidularioides are partially
self-compatible species, while the others are self-incompatible. All of
them reproduce through cross-pollination, with a greater number of seeds
produced by natural pollination. The data obtained on the reproductive
aspects of Hohenbergia species are important to support studies aimed at
the improvement and conservation of these species.