An attempt to clarify the term heterocolpate

The different definitions of the terms heterocolpate and pseudocolpi used by different authors are presented to illustrate the confusing use of the term heterocolpate. The morphological nature of the heterocolpate condition is investigated with reference to the structure of the colpi and pseudocolpi of selected heterocolpate pollen grains from the Sudanese Flora. LM and SEM were used. Cracking and fracturing techniques through the equatorial plane and passing through the different apertures were examined. As a result it is suggested that the term heterocolpate is restricted to:“pollen grains which possess two (or more) types of colpi, of which one type differs in length and/or the presence or absence of endoapertures, exine thinnings, invaginations or microstructures”. © 1989 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.