Multiple factors contribute to reproductive isolation between two co-existing Habenaria species (Orchidaceae).

ABSTRACT: Reproductive isolation is a key feature that forms barriers to gene flow between distinct plants. In orchids, prezygotic reproductive isolation has been considered to be strong, because their associations with highly specific pollinators. In this study, the reproductive ecology and reproductive isolation of two sympatric Habenaria species, H. davidii and H. fordii, was investigated by floral phenology and morphology, hand-pollination experiments and visitor observation in southwest China. The two species were dependent on insects for pollination and completely self-compatible. A number of factors have been identified to limit gene flow between the two species and achieved full reproductive isolation. Ecogeographic isolation was a weak barrier. H. fordii and H. davidii had completely overla

SUBMITTER: Zhang W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5703478 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature