Anther cones increase pollen release in buzz-pollinated Solanum flowers.

ABSTRACT: The widespread evolution of tube-like anthers releasing pollen from apical pores is associated with buzz pollination, in which bees vibrate flowers to remove pollen. The mechanical connection among anthers in buzz-pollinated species varies from loosely held conformations, to anthers tightly held together with trichomes or bioadhesives forming a functionally joined conical structure (anther cone). Joined anther cones in buzz-pollinated species have evolved independently across plant families and via different genetic mechanisms, yet their functional significance remains mostly untested. We used experimental manipulations to compare vibrational and functional (pollen release) consequences of joined anther cones in three buzz-pollinated species of Solanum (Solanaceae). We applied bee-like vib

SUBMITTER: Vallejo-Marin M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9313847 | biostudies-literature | 2022 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature