Seed reproduction of Anemonoides altaica (Ranunculaceae) in the forest-steppe of West Siberia

The article reports the seasonal development, seed productivity and the state of embryos in the seeds of Anemonoides altaica (C. A. Mey.) Holub. The studies were conducted for three years (2021–2023). In forest-steppe of West Siberia A. altaica successfully goes through all phenological phases. One generative shoot forms 31–37 seeds. The seed set coefficient (ratio of the number of seeds to the number of ovules) is very high (80.9–89.8%), realization of the seed yield potential is close to the maximum value. During seed dispersal, the embryos in the seeds are not differentiated and go through the initial stages of development: globular and triangular. The majority of seeds are well filled and contain embryos and endosperms. The proportion of defective seeds (with disturbance in embryo or endosperm development) is insignificant (reaching 3%). Based on the following reproductive indicators: seasonal development, seed productivity and development of embryos in seeds, A. altaica is considered as a promising species for cultivation in the forest-steppes of Western Siberia.