Pollen Cryopreservation in Bird of Paradise
摘要
Pollen cryopreservation is a vital technique for the long-term storage of viable pollen, playing a key role in breeding programs and genetic conservation. This study presents an optimized cryopreservation protocol for Strelitzia reginae (bird of paradise) pollen, ensuring high viability and germination post-thaw. Freshly collected pollen was desiccated using silica gel to reduce moisture content, minimizing ice crystal formation during freezing. The dehydrated pollen was then sealed in cryovials and subjected to a gradual cooling process before immersion in liquid nitrogen at −196 °C. Post-cryopreservation viability was assessed using in vitro germination tests and tetrazolium staining, both confirming high pollen viability. The established protocol enables year-round hybridization and ensures the preservation of viable pollen for conservation and breeding applications. These findings highlight the importance of optimized cryopreservation methods in maintaining the functional integrity of S. reginae pollen, contributing to floricultural research and genetic resource management.