Pollen viability, stigma receptivity and reproduction mode of spineless cactus (Nopalea cochenillifera Salm-Dyck) accessions

Forage cactus (Opuntia spp. and Nopalea spp.) have great potential for animal feed and human consumption due to their adaptability to semi-arid conditions. This study evaluated six accessions of N. cochenillifera, analyzing pollen viability, stigma receptivity and reproduction mode. Four types of pollination were tested: spontaneous self-pollination, manual self-pollination, natural pollination and cross-pollination. The results indicated high pollen viability and stigma receptivity in some accessions during flower bud development, allowing for self-pollination and controlled hybridization. After 24 hours of anthesis, pollen viability decreased, but stigma receptivity reached 100%. Fruiting occurred via natural pollination in all accessions, and by self-pollination and cross-pollination in accessions ac-02 and ac-03, which showed a mixed reproductive system. These results are essential for breeding programs, contributing to sustainable agriculture in semi-arid regions.