Document Type
Article
Disciplines
Botany | Evolution
Abstract
• Competing evolutionary forces shape plant breeding systems (e.g. inbreeding depression, reproductive assurance). Which of these forces prevails in a given population or species is predicted to depend upon such factors as life history, eco- logical conditions, and geographical context. Here, we examined two such predictions: that self-compatibility should be associated with the annual life history or extreme climatic conditions.
• We analyzed data from a clade of plants remarkable for variation in breeding system, life history and climatic conditions (Oenothera, sections Anogra and Kleinia, Onagraceae). We used a phylogenetic comparative approach and Bayesian or hybrid Bayesian tests to account for phylogenetic uncertainty. Geographic information system (GIS)-based climate data and ecological niche modeling allowed us to quantify climatic conditions.
• Breeding system and reproductive life span are not correlated in Anogra and Kleinia. Instead, self-compatibility is associated with the extremes of temperature in the coldest part of the year and precipitation in the driest part of the year.
• In the 60 yr since this pattern was anticipated, this is the first demonstration of a relationship between the evolution of self-compatibility and climatic extremes. We discuss possible explanations for this pattern and possible implications with respect to anthropogenic climate change.
Recommended Citation
Evans, Margaret E.K.; Hearn, David J.; Theiss, Kathryn E.; Cranston, Karen; Holsinger, Kent E.; and Donoghue, Michael J., "Extreme environments select for reproductive assurance: evidence from evening primroses (Oenothera)" (2011). EEB Articles. 24.
https://digitalcommons.lib.uconn.edu/eeb_articles/24