Summary

In this first one year phase the project will conduct studies on flower biology to better understand fruit set and the nature of seediness.

There is little understanding of the mechanisms of fruit set in indigenous Syzygium species. The published data for Asian and African species indicates a mix of pollination mechaisms are possible within this genus. Successful pollination may be necessary for fruit set and hence an understanding of the requirements for pollination are critical. The effects of nil pollination, self pollination and cross pollination will be studied.

Program

New and Emerging Plant Industries

Research Organisation

OLD ABN-The State Of Queensland Acting Through The Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation

Objective Summary

Investigate the flower biology of Riberry to better understand the influence of pollination on fruit set, fruit retention and seed development and to investigate the phenology and flowering response to better understand cropping behaviour.

A phenological cycle including vegetative, flower, fruit and root development patterns will be developed and used in conjunction with environmental data and controlled experiments on the effect of water deficeit and temperature to better understand growth and flowering behaviour in both Riberry and Rainberry (S. fibrosum).

Currently, flowering and fruit set in Riberry and, to a lesser extent, Rainberry, is unreliable. In some years crops are heavy and in other years very light. An study of the phenology of the plant growth cycle in combination with climatic data will help understand why flowering is strong in some years and light in others. The specific effects of water deficeit and temperature on flowering will be studied.

The influence of pollination on fruit set and seed development is also critical to understanding cropping and propagation strategies.

More reliable cropping will improve profitability and hence improve confidence in the industry and help attract further investment and new growers.

This project represents the first attempt to develop an understanding of cropping behaviour in Riberry and assist the early development of this fledgling industry. The results of the project will assist industry leaders and stakeholders including RIRDC, in decisions regarding further development priorities.