Article

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of the breeding system in the reproductive success of Narcissus cavanillesii A. Barra & G. López (Amaryllidaceae), a species listed under Annexes II and IV of European Community Habitat and Species Directive. This taxon, which occurs in only two populations in Portugal, is of conservation interest in this country due to its low area of occupancy and population size, and fragmentation. Hand-pollinations were carried out to evaluate the performance of self- and cross-pollination offspring. Results show that xenogamous pollinations produce more fruits and seeds than autogamous ones. However, no significant differences were detected neither in seed weight nor in seed germination percentage between treatments. Germination rate (T50) was significantly higher in autogamous crosses whereas radicle vigour as well as the number of days until the appearance of the first leaf were lower. A fitness coefficient was estimated for each of these parameters by comparing the results obtained from selfing and outcrossing treatments. These results are important for the formulation of effective management strategies in the conservation of this scarce geophyte in Portugal. This study was promoted by EDIA, S. A. and co-financed by EDIA, S. A. and European Regional Development Funds (ERDF).