Create your own conference schedule! Click here for full instructions

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


Copyright © 2000-2013, Botanical Society of America. All rights reserved