Microsporogenesis and anther wall development in male-sterile and fertile lines of pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.)

Summary Microsporogenesis and anther wall development of male-sterile and fertile lines in pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) was examined microscopically. Male-sterility was complete and was caused by breakdown at the young tetrad stage. Degeneration of the tapetum by vacuolation occurred during the first division of meiosis and appeared responsible for pollen mother cell breakdown. Sterile plants also differed from the fertile plants in the enlargement of the inner middle layer of the anther wall, and in the lack of development of the endothecium.