Diversity and evolution of a trait mediating ant–plant interactions: insights from extrafloral nectaries in Senna (Leguminosae) | Zendy

Brigitte Marazzi | Zendy; Elena Conti | Zendy; Michael J. Sanderson | Zendy; Michelle M. McMahon | Zendy; Judith L. Bronstein | Zendy

Open Access

Diversity and evolution of a trait mediating ant–plant interactions: insights from extrafloral nectaries in Senna (Leguminosae)

Author(s) -

Brigitte Marazzi,

Elena Conti,

Michael J. Sanderson,

Michelle M. McMahon,

Judith L. Bronstein

Publication year - 2012

Publication title -

annals of botany

Language(s) - English

Resource type - Journals

SCImago Journal Rank - 1.567

H-Index - 176

eISSN - 1095-8290

pISSN - 0305-7364

DOI - 10.1093/aob/mcs226

Subject(s) - biology , nectar , botany , synapomorphy , heterochrony , arboreal locomotion , evolutionary biology , ontogeny , phylogenetics , clade , ecology , pollen , biochemistry , genetics , habitat , gene

Plants display a wide range of traits that allow them to use animals for vital tasks. To attract and reward aggressive ants that protect developing leaves and flowers from consumers, many plants bear extrafloral nectaries (EFNs). EFNs are exceptionally diverse in morphology and locations on a plant. In this study the evolution of EFN diversity is explored by focusing on the legume genus Senna, in which EFNs underwent remarkable morphological diversification and occur in over 80 % of the approx. 350 species.

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