ABSTRACT
A majority of the citrus varieties are parthenocarpic (seedless) and require very little pollination largely due to gametic sterility; however, it does not mean that cross-pollination is not beneficial for them. The seeded cultivars, on the other hand, depend upon self- or cross-pollination and fertilization for fruit development. The dependence on pollinators varies within varieties. In this chapter, we have discussed how cross-pollination in citrus varieties can increase the production of fruits and the number of seeds. The floral phenology of citrus and its potential as a pollen and nectar source for pollinators is also discussed. Due to abundant pollen and nectar, an array of pollinator groups visit citrus flowers. A list of citrus pollinators is also provided in the light of published literature which largely includes wild and managed honeybees, stingless bees, true flies, and butterflies. The placement of honeybee colonies in citrus orchards is a common practice; however, it is difficult to establish sharp recommendations about the number of colonies as each citrus variety has its own characteristics and pollination requirements. The need to use an appropriate pollinizer in order to improve the quality and yield of self-incompatible varieties -in an environmental-friendly way- is also discussed. Citrus fruits have a short shelf life and deteriorate quickly during storage due to decay, softening, and weight loss. Cross-pollination by insects significantly improves the shelf life of fruits and vegetables; however, direct studies on citrus are still lacking.
