Abstract Detail

Reproductive biology

Goodwillie, Carol [1], Weber, Jennifer [2].

Delayed selfing: underappreciated, overinterpreted, or both?

Self-fertilization that occurs late in anthesis, after opportunities for outcrossing, has been argued to be a best-of-both-worlds strategy that provides the genetic benefits of outcrossing but also assures seed set in the absence of pollinators. Despite the intuitive appeal of this hypothesis, empirical data on the frequency, function and fitness benefits of delayed selfing mechanisms are relatively rare. We argue that delayed selfing has likely been overlooked in many species. On the other hand, some of the putative mechanisms of delayed selfing that have been reported have not been experimentally tested and may have evolved for other functions. Here we briefly review the literature on the topic, survey the proposed floral mechanisms of delayed selfing and evaluate the strength of evidence for their adaptive value. We discuss a case study in Triodanis perfoliata. Experimental data provide some evidence for delayed selfing in Triodanis; yet the presence of other floral traits call into question whether delayed selfing represents an adaptation shaped by natural selection in this species. We suggest the need for more rigorous experimental studies of delayed selfing and its consequences.

1 - EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY, Department Of Biology, Mail Stop 551, GREENVILLE, NC, 27858, USA
2 - Southern IL University, Carbondale, Department of Plant Biology, Carbondale, IL, 62901, USA

Keywords:
mixed mating
reproductive assurance
mating system
floral traits.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 42, Reproductive Biology
Location: 205/Savannah International Trade and Convention Center
Date: Wednesday, August 3rd, 2016
Time: 11:15 AM
Number: 42005
Abstract ID:702
Candidate for Awards:None