Journal article
Comparative pappus micromorphology of edelweiss (Leontopodium, Gnaphalieae, Asteraceae) with implications for taxonomy, ecology and evolution
Publication Details
Authors: | Stille, J.; Stuessy, T.; Dickore, W.; Jaeger, M.; Gemeinholzer, B.; Wissemann, V. |
Publisher: | WILEY |
Publication year: | 2016 |
Journal: | Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society |
Pages range : | 612-636 |
Volume number: | 182 |
Issue number: | 3 |
Start page: | 612 |
End page: | 636 |
Number of pages: | 25 |
ISSN: | 0024-4074 |
eISSN: | 1095-8339 |
DOI-Link der Erstveröffentlichung: |
Abstract
We analysed pappus characters in 31 of the c. 34 accepted Leontopodium spp. (edelweiss). Micromorphological pappus character states were useful for discriminating between individual species and intrageneric groups. The pappus differs in number, length, breadth, surface structure, colour and the tips of the bristles. Several features characterize single species, for example a unique fan-like tip that is only found in L.franchetii. Leontopodium section Nobilia is supported by unusual pappus characters. Experimental evidence shows that the pappus of Leontopodium, previously thought to be caducous, is well suited for wind dispersal of the fruit. One clear trend is that species growing in sparsely vegetated, high-altitude regions often have more numerous and longer pappus bristles, particularly on the female flowers.
We analysed pappus characters in 31 of the c. 34 accepted Leontopodium spp. (edelweiss). Micromorphological pappus character states were useful for discriminating between individual species and intrageneric groups. The pappus differs in number, length, breadth, surface structure, colour and the tips of the bristles. Several features characterize single species, for example a unique fan-like tip that is only found in L.franchetii. Leontopodium section Nobilia is supported by unusual pappus characters. Experimental evidence shows that the pappus of Leontopodium, previously thought to be caducous, is well suited for wind dispersal of the fruit. One clear trend is that species growing in sparsely vegetated, high-altitude regions often have more numerous and longer pappus bristles, particularly on the female flowers.
Keywords
Compositae, Cypselae, microscopy, wind dispersal
