| Abstract Detail
Pollination Biology Chang, Shu-Mei [1]. Pollen competition in style: Is bigger always better? Pollen size varies greatly among different angiosperms species (diameter ranges from 5 ~ 250 µm). In contrast, this trait is generally found to have little variation within a species; a pattern presumably due to a strong selection for the optimal size for specific pollination conditions in each species. However, several recent studies have shown that significant genetic variation still exist within natural populations, highlighting the question of what maintains genetic variation in this important male fitness trait. To address this question, I used the artificial selection approach to generate independent lines of the common morning glory, Ipomoea purpurea, that diverged significantly in the average pollen size. I then tested the functional significance of pollen size using pollen competition studies. I found that larger pollen grains sired significantly more seeds than smaller pollen grains. Results will be discussed in the context of sexual selection in flowering plants. Log in to add this item to your schedule
1 - University Of Georgia, Department Of Plant Biology, 2502 Miller Plant Sciences Building, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
Keywords: Pollen competition floral biology artificial selection Ipomoea.
Presentation Type: Oral Paper:Papers for Topics Session: 32 Location: Firs South/Boise Centre Date: Wednesday, July 30th, 2014 Time: 9:15 AM Number: 32006 Abstract ID:701 Candidate for Awards:None |