Abstract Detail

Development and Structure

Zenchyzen, Brandi [1], Martin, Jaymie [1], Weissner, Stacie [1], Lopushinsky, Ainsley [1], John, Ida [1], Nahal, Ishnoor [1], Hall, Jocelyn [1].

Exploring nectary diversity in Cleomaceae.

Plant-animal interactions played an essential role in the rapid diversification of flowering plants. Most flowering plants have evolved a mutualistic relationship with animals in which floral resources are exchanged for pollen transfer. One such floral resource consumed by animals is nectar, a sugar solution produced by nectaries. Flowering plants display a vast array of nectary structures, locations, and secretory mechanisms. Nectaries are associated with a variety of floral organs and are often basally located to ensure animals contact the reproductive organs while accessing nectar. In addition, nectaries may or may not be connected to vascular tissue and nectar can be excreted through modified stomata (nectarostomata) or the cuticle. Although Cleomaceae flowers exhibit a diversity in floral form and are associated with a range of pollinators, no comparative studies of their nectaries have been conducted. Using visual observations, scanning electron microscopy, and histological methods, we explored the morphological and anatomical diversity of nectaries across the Cleomaceae phylogeny. In Cleomaceae, nectaries are located on the receptacle, between the petals and stamens or petals and androgynophore. The nectaries range from unstructured and inconspicuous to prominent and diverse in shape including convex and concave forms. Despite the diversity in nectary structure, Cleomaceae nectaries share nectarostomata as the mechanism of nectar secretion.

1 - University of Alberta, Biological Sciences, 116 St & 85 Ave, Edmonton, AB, T6G2R3, Canada

Keywords:
Cleomaceae
Nectaries
Floral morphology
Floral anatomy.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Number: DS4001
Abstract ID:190
Candidate for Awards:None