Geographical differentiation in floral traits across the distribution range of the Patagonian oil-secreting Calceolaria polyrhiza: do pollinators matter?

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

The underlying evolutionary processes of pollinator-driven floral diversification are still poorly understood. According to the Grant-Stebbins model speciation begins with adaptive local differentiation in the response to spatial heterogeneity in pollinators. Although this crucial process links the micro- and macroevolution of floral adaptation, it has received little attention. In this study geographical phenotypic variation was investigated in Patagonian Calceolaria polyrhiza and its pollinators, two oil-collecting bee species that differ in body size and geographical distribution.

Methods

Patterns of phenotypic variation were examined together with their relationships with pollinators and abiotic factors. Six floral and seven vegetative traits were mea

SUBMITTER: Cosacov A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3890392 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature