Article

Linaria ricardoi Cout. (Scrophulariaceae) is a Portuguese endemism considered as a prioritary species by the European Community Habitats and Species Directive (Directive 92/43/CEE), that grows in dry arable tìelds in a restricted area l'rom SE Portugal. Its actual distribution is limited lO few known arcas where anthropogenic action, namely agriculture, is less intensive. A study on pollen viability, stigma receptivity and breeding system of Linaria ricardoi was begun to improve the knowledge on this species and to contribute to ilS conservation. Results shows that L. ricardoi can reproduce by both cross- and self-pollination, although xenogamy looks to be more efficicnt.