Rapid plant evolution driven by the interaction of pollination and herbivory

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Evolutionary Biology
• Plant Science

Background:

• Pollination and herbivory are critical factors influencing plant diversity.
• These ecological interactions are often studied independently, potentially overlooking their combined evolutionary impact.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate real-time evolutionary shifts in plant traits under simultaneous selection from pollinators and herbivores.
• To understand the interactive effects of pollination and herbivory on plant evolution.

Main Methods:

• Utilized fast-cycling Brassica rapa (a model organism) over six generations.
• Manipulated the presence and absence of bumble bee pollinators and leaf herbivores to simulate different selection pressures.

Main Results:

• Plants selected by bee pollinators alone evolved greater floral attractiveness.
• The presence of herbivores diminished the evolution of floral attractiveness.
• Combined selection from pollinators and herbivores led to increased self-compatibility, autonomous selfing, and reduced herkogamy (spatial separation of sexual organs).

Conclusions:

• The evolutionary trajectory of most plant traits is significantly influenced by the interplay between pollination and herbivory.
• Cross-talk between these interactions is crucial for understanding plant evolution and adaptation.