Advance in research on reproduction biology in Castanea mollissimma

Abstract：Reproductive biology of fruit tree is a crucial part of cultivation physiology and genetic research. Understanding the characteristics of fruit tree reproductive biology provides a window for genetic research and cultivar improvement. Castanea mollissimma, as one of China＇s important dried fruits, so far, has done a lot on its reproductive characteristics. The studies interpret the nature of pollination, flower bud differentiation and endogenous hormone action during flower organ development. And these also perceive the relationship between abnormal embryo development and the empty shell of chestnut at different case of pollination and fertilization, nutrient, abnormal embryo development and sexual reproduction. An initial progress has also been made in male sterility. The paper features from flowers, flower bud differentiation, flowering and pollination biology characteristics of chestnut and other aspects of the phenomenon of empty shell, also gives an overview summary of the flower bud differentiation and focus on sex differentiation and its mechanism, chestnut empty shell and principle, and research advance about male sterility. Based on the current research status, future trends in this field were discussed.