Loss of viability during storage is associated with changes in membrane phospholipid

Viability (in terms of in vitro germination), membrane integrity [as revealed by the fluorochromatic reaction (FCR) test] and changes in total and individual phospholipids were monitored in pollen grains of Crotalaria retusa stored under different conditions for up to 60 days. Irrespective of the storage conditions, there was a positive and significant correlation between the loss of viability and the loss of membrane integrity as well as the reduction in total phospholipid and individual phospholipids. The results indicate that membrane phospholipid deterioration, and consequent loss of membrane integrity represent an important physiological event associated with the loss of pollen viability