01619nas a2200133 4500008004100000245011200041210006900153300001200222490000700234520115800241100001901399700001501418856005201433 1997 eng d00aStructural analysis of female and hermaphroditic flowers of a gynodioecious tree, Ocotea tenera (Lauraceae)0 aStructural analysis of female and hermaphroditic flowers of a gy a298-3070 v843 a

The evolution of gynodioecy from hermaphroditism involves modifications of floral structure such that male or female fitness is enhanced in hermaphrodites and females, respectively. We present an analysis of structural specialization of flowers of Ocotea tenera, in order to evaluate gender system evolution in this tropical tree species. Significant morphological and anatomical variation was found between high fruiting and low or nonfruiting trees. Female flowers were significantly smaller than hermaphroditic flowers, produced no viable pollen, and made relatively greater allocation to structures that increase female fitness. Hermaphroditic flowers were significantly larger than female flowers, produced copious quantities of pollen, and made relatively greater allocation to male structures. Analyses indicated that changes in allometries between whole-flower growth and growth of reproductive structures may have occurred, which enhance function of the flower and plant as a male or female. Efficiency of nutrient allocation for reproduction is argued to be a factor driving gender system evolution in Ocotea tenera.

1 aGibson, J., P.1 aDiggle, P. uhttp://www.amjbot.org/content/84/3/298.abstract00429nas a2200121 4500008004100000245008700041210006900128300001200197490000700209100001900216700002400235856004800259 1996 eng d00aMating system dynamics of Ocotea tenera (Lauraceae), a gynodioecious tropical tree0 aMating system dynamics of Ocotea tenera Lauraceae a gynodioeciou a890-8940 v831 aGibson, J., P.1 aWheelwright, N., T. uhttps://lauraceae.myspecies.info/node/20017