Selective advantage of ray florets in Scalesia affinis and S. pedunculata (Asteraceae), two endemic species from the Galápagos

摘要: The presence of neuter ray florets in species within Asteraceae is generally believed to increase pollinator attraction. In the endemic Galapagos genus Scalesia (Asteraceae) a natural variation presence/absence found. To evaluate whether plays selective role on female reproductive success we chose two Scalesia, affinis that carries and S. pedunculata rayless. On Santa Cruz Island capitula were equipped with fake while others untouched. Isabela removed half affinis. rayed received more pollinators pollen, which resulted significantly higher embryo production. no effect production was disagreement between may correspond difference visitation frequency, receiving many visit than Thus, floret development proved beneficial pollinator-restricted localities.