Cryostorage of Aechmea fasciata pollen

Aechmea fasciata anthers were collected at different greenhouse humidity le vels. Anthers dried for different periods of time (0-24 hours) were directl y submersed in liquid nitrogen. Based on the anther water content and in vi tro pollen germination, 2 different protocols were developed to store polle n. Additional drying is negative when anthers are collected at 55% R.H. At 65%, 75% and 85% R.H, pollen storability improves when anthers are dried fo r 4 hours. Liquid nitrogen stored anthers have to be rehydrated before usin g them. Pollen treated in this way have a viability between 80 and 90%.