Flower Size Trade-Offs in Tropical Tree Species
Author Information
Author(s): Kettle Chris J., Maycock Colin R., Ghazoul Jaboury, Hollingsworth Pete M., Khoo Eyen, Sukri Rahayu Sukmaria Haji, Burslem David F. R. P.
Primary Institution: Institute of Terrestrial Ecosystems, ETH Zurich
Hypothesis
Does flower size scale negatively with mean flower production per individual across species?
Conclusion
The study found that trade-offs between flower size and pollination success can reduce variance in fecundity among tropical tree species.
Supporting Evidence
- Small-flowered species had lower mean pollination success than large-flowered species.
- Maximum flower production was significantly greater in small-flowered species.
- Average pollen dispersal distances were shorter in small-flowered species.
- Trade-offs in flower size and pollination success may contribute to species coexistence.
- Genetic relatedness was higher in progeny of small-flowered species.
Takeaway
Small flowers produce more flowers, but they are pollinated by smaller insects that don't move far, while big flowers have fewer flowers but are pollinated by larger insects that can travel longer distances.
Methodology
The study combined experimental exclusion of pollinators with estimates of pollen dispersal and flower production across 12 dipterocarp species.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the limited number of species studied and the specific ecological context of the research.
Limitations
The study is limited to a small number of species and may not generalize to all tropical trees.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on 12 species of dipterocarps from Borneo.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0005
Confidence Interval
95% CI not specified
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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