Studies on Pollination Behavior of Neem

Neem or the Margosa tree, Azadirachta indica (Meliaceae), is a versatile tree species common in arid zones. An experiment was conducted to assess the pollination ecology of Neem, floral biology, and the breeding system, at Forest College and Research Institute, Mettupalayam. The study was conducted with four tree species and the pollination study observed for six months. Among the selected tree species, the pollination study was revealed the Azadirachta indica. Phenological observations established that trees within a population flowered synchronously, but populations varied in the time of onset of flowering; a few trees flowered twice a year. An inflorescence bears bisexual, white and sweet-scented flowers. The stigma consists of a non-receptive apical region and a subjacent rim of receptive surface; papillae on the two regions differ in their morphology and function. The occurrence of natural pollination both by wind and insects indicates ambophily. Insect pollinators were predominantly represented by Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera; Apis spp. were the most effective pollinators.