| Abstract Detail
Recent Topics Posters Saunders, Elizabeth [1], Sipes, Sedonia D. [1]. Pollination ecology of the rare Wyoming endemic Abronia ammophila (Nyctaginaceae). Abronia ammophila Greene (Nyctaginaceae) is a Wyoming endemic known from four small populations along the shores of Lake Yellowstone, Yellowstone National Park (YNP), Wyoming, USA. The populations appear to be limited by suitable habitat. The U.S. National Park Service (USNPS) is gathering information about A. ammophila to inform conservation efforts. To this end, we conducted breeding-system experiments on and pollinator observations of A. ammophila. Pollination treatments tested for autogamy, geitonogamy, and near and far xenogamy. We hand-pollinated inflorescences that had been covered to exclude visitors. Inflorescences remained covered until fruits had matured and were collected. Abronia ammophila is self-compatible and autogamous, but capable of outcrossing when pollinators are present. We also tested timing of stigma receptivity and pollen viability. Stigmas are viable across all days the flower is open. Pollen viability is greatest on the first day after flower maturation. We documented pollinator visits by noctuid and sphingid moths, bees, and wasps. Given the flower morphology, moth pollination is suggested, but bees may also pollinate A. ammophila. Pollinators should be included in Abronia ammophila conservation efforts.
1 - Southern Illinois University, Department of Plant Biology, 1125 Lincoln Drive, Carbondale, Illinois, 62901-6509, USA
Keywords: breeding system pollination ecology pollinators moth moth pollination rare endemic.
Presentation Type: Poster Session: 32-169 Location: Special Event Center (Cliff Lodge) Date: Tuesday, August 3rd, 2004 Time: 12:30 PM Abstract ID:1142 |