What is pollen kit? Write a short note on pollen viability.

Explanation

Pollen kit is a yellow, oily, viscous, sticky layer present on the surface of pollen grains of entomophilous plants. It is made up of lipids and carotenoids and protects the pollen from atmospheric harmful radiations. Pollen viability is the period for which pollen grains retain the ability to germinate and produce pollen tubes. It varies from a few minutes (rice, wheat) to several months (Rosaceae, Leguminoseae). It depends upon temperature and humidity. Pollen can be stored for years in liquid nitrogen at a temperature of (`-196^(@)C`) in pollen banks for future plant breeding programmes.