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Offspring polymorphism and bet hedging: a large-scale, phylogenetic analysis
Joshua P Scholl1, Leonardo Calle2, Nick Miller3
1Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA.
Ecology Letters
|May 15, 2020
Summary
Seed heteromorphism, a strategy where plants produce varied offspring, is common in unpredictable environments. This study supports the bet-hedging hypothesis, suggesting it helps plants adapt to changing conditions.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary Biology
- Ecology
- Plant Sciences
Background:
- Offspring polymorphism, or producing varied offspring, is a widespread reproductive strategy.
- In plants, this is known as seed (diaspore) heteromorphism and is prevalent in unpredictable environments.
- It is widely assumed to function as a bet-hedging mechanism against environmental variability.
Discussion:
- The study examined 101 examples of seed heteromorphism in southwestern North America.
- Phylogenetic analysis supported the link between seed heteromorphism and environmental variability, particularly aridity.
Key Insights:
- Seed heteromorphism increases with environmental variability, especially aridity.
- Bet hedging is a significant evolutionary driver for seed heteromorphism.
Outlook:
- Further research can explore other environmental factors influencing seed heteromorphism.
- Understanding this strategy can inform conservation efforts for plant species in variable climates.
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