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.