Reproductive biology of Lasiurus sindicus: a vital perennial fodder grass for arid ecosystem

In the arid conditions of Thar desert, only the plants which are adapted to the extreme conditions can grow and reproduce. Rangelands are important fodder resources which are needed to be improved for their long-term productivity and sustainability through conservation and utilization of indigenous plant species (Lasiurus sindicus, Cenchrus ciliaris, Cenchrus setigerus, etc.). In this first ever study; we investigated the reproductive features of L. sindicus, which will assist in breeding related improvement programs of L. sindicus. The findings will also enhance our understanding about the survival strategies of L. sindicus in the extreme arid conditions.

Flowers of L. sindicus are of both types, staminate and bisexual with off- white colored corolla. Results of outcrossing index (OCI), pollen-to-ovule (P/O) ratio, pollen count and different pollination treatments, indicated for cross- pollination mechanism in L. sindicus. Absence of nectar secreting tissues for nectar production and fragrance, suggested for wind-mediated pollination system. Lower grain germination rate of self-pollination than that of geitonogamous pollination and open pollination, further supported the prevalence of outcrossing in the breeding system.

Different aspects of reproductive biology of L. sindicus, were examined which provided insight into conservation and management of this unique plant species for rangeland management programs. Floral traits, such as large pollen count, high grain setting in open pollination treatment and absence of pollinators in L. sindicus indicated towards wind-mediated out-crossing. Our findings have laid a solid foundation for various genetic studies and improvement programs of L. sindicus.