Experimental tests of sex-allocation theory in plants
Trends in Ecology & EvolutionPublished 1 June 2000
Diane R. Campbell, Diane R. Campbell
Citations171
SJR quartileQ1
SJR score4.88
SNIP4.51
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TL;DR
Experimental studies provide tests of sex-allocation theory by measuring male and female fitness gains, and examining the trade-off assumption, to show how fitness responds to shifts in allocation.
Abstract
A general explanation for diversity in plant breeding systems is offered by sex-allocation theory. This theory assumes a trade-off between allocation of resources to the two sexual functions. It explains the high frequency of hermaphroditism in angiosperms by diminishing fitness returns on investment of more resources in a single function. Recent experimental studies provide tests of this theory by measuring male and female fitness gains, and examining the trade-off assumption. These studies show how fitness responds to shifts in allocation. Allocation traits often show heritable variation, but support for a trade-off remains weak.
Keywords
Agricultural and Biological SciencesEnvironmental Science
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