Determination of the mineral elements in the pollen of some Gymnospermae

In this work the principal elements (K, Ca, Fe, Mg, Cu, Zn, Mn, Na) constituting the mineral component of the pollen in some Gymnospermae, have been determined. This type of investigation has few matches in literature despite the importance some mineral elements have in germinating the pollen granule. The pollen samples, appropriately treated, were analysed in atomic absorption spectrophotometry and biometrically characterized under the optical microscope. Examination of the analytical data allows verification of the great influence deriving from soil characteristics and, within the families, a specific role of the type. The morphobiometric parameters show that a link exists between small and medium granules and with thin walls and minimum concentration values of Na, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn.