Abstract

The objective of the present study was to investigate pollinating cultivars of the main Algerian cultivars, particularly the most productive of the region and to know the floral biology of these cultivars. Eight autochthonous native olive cultivars studied were: Lokchiri, Lohmiri, Kharfi, Braouki, Derdouri, Chetoui, Blilti and Kerdoussi. From a phenological point of view, the development time of the floral pieces was less spread for the so-called late cultivars. Regarding flowering, it has been abundant for the majority of varieties. The duration of flowering was 23 days (spread over a period of 11 to 14 days on average) depending on the variety. The flowering periods of the eight cultivars coincided for a duration of 13 days. Cross-pollination between these cultivars was therefore possible. The study of the average number of flowers per inflorescence revealed a greater number in Lohmiri and Lokchiri cultivars and the lowest number in Blilti. The rate of abortion of the ovary was very high in Chetoui and Blilti varieties (63%). The rate of imperfect flowers seemed a rather varietal factor. The laboratory study showed that olive pollen had a low germination rate. However, Lohmiri pollen with 51.7% germination can be considered as having a good germinative capacity. For fruit set and maturation, it is generally noted that the rates resulting from open pollination are higher than those given by self-pollination and inter-pollination. However cross-pollination improved the fruiting rate of the different cultivars. The Lokchiri cultivar proved to be rather inconsistent, it therefore needed a pollinator. However, Blilté, Kerdoussi and Chetoui are partially self-incompatible and Lohmiri, Kharfi, Braouki and Derdouri auto compatible. Lohmiri was compatible with all other cultivars, its pollen improved the cross-pollination fructification rate of all cultivars relative to the control. In addition, the high germination rate of its pollen, the high growth rate of its pollen tubes and the concordance of its flowering time with that of other cultivars, make it an effective pollinator of the studied cultivars and particularly of Lokchiri and Kerdoussi.