THE POLLINATION ECOLOGY OF SOLANUM ROSTRATUM (SOLANACEAE)

The vector or vectors of pollen transfer, the mechanism of reproduction, and the roles in reproduction, if any, of the large anther and of the projection of the style from the side of the blossom (enantiostyly) are determined.

Abstract

The pollination mechanisms and pollen vectors of Solarium rostratum have been examined by greenhouse experiments and field studies. Although the capacity for autogamy exists in this weedy annual, it rarely occurs because of two factors: (1) the morphology of the flower and (2) the foraging behavior of the various species of Bombus , the primary pollen vector in the regions studied. The percentages of geitonogamy and xenogamy are dependent on the flight pattern of the bees and the number of open flowers on a plant.