Ecological correlates and genetic consequences of evolutionary transitions from distyly to homostyly.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

The outbreeding floral polymorphism heterostyly frequently breaks down, resulting in the evolution of self-fertilization as a result of homostyle formation. Here, the loss of floral polymorphism in distylous Primula oreodoxa, a sub-alpine species restricted to western Sichuan, China, was examined by investigating the ecological correlates and genetic consequences of mating system transitions. Several key questions were addressed. (1) What are the frequencies, geographical distribution and reproductive characteristics of floral morphs in distylous and homostylous populations? (2) Does increased elevation influence pollinator service and the likelihood of inbreeding in populations? (3) How often has homostyly originated and what are the consequences of the breakdo

SUBMITTER: Yuan S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5691548 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature