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Dryad

Data from: Efficiency of using electric toothbrush as an alternative to tuning fork for artificial buzz pollination is independent of instrument buzzing frequency

Data files

Jan 10, 2020 version files 16.34 KB

Abstract

Background: Breeding programs and research activities where artificial buzz pollinations are required have primarily relied upon using tuning forks, and bumble bees. However, these methods can be expensive, unreliable, and inefficient. To find an alternative, we tested the efficiency of pollen collection using electric toothbrushes and compared it with tuning forks at three vibration frequencies- low, medium, and high and two extraction times at 3 seconds and 16 seconds- from two buzz pollinated species (Solanum lycopersicum and Solanum elaeagnifolium). Results: Our results show that species, and extraction time significantly influenced pollen extraction, while there were no significant differences for the different vibration frequencies and more importantly, the use of a toothbrush over tuning fork. More pollen was extracted from Solanum elaeagnifolium when compared to Solanum lycopersicum, and at longer buzzing time of regardless of the instrument used. Conclusions: Our results suggest that electric toothbrush can be a viable and inexpensive alternative to tuning forks, and regardless of the instrument used and buzzing frequency, time of buzzing is also critical in pollen extraction