The Floral Biology of Nymphaea Odorata Aiton
Date
1979-10
Authors
Chaney, Timothy Paul
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Abstract
The floral biology of Nymphaea odorata Aiton native to central Texas has been studied. Anthesis occurs over a three day period with flowers opening each morning. First day flowers are protogynous and the pollen-receptive stigmas secrete a fluid which fills the perigynous cup. Pollen covered insects, especially Hymenoptera (Lasioglossum versatum Robertson), are attracted to first day flowers by odor. As insects enter first day flowers, foraging for pollen, they land on the vertical but flexible stamens which bend and the insects fall into the stigmatic fluid. The stigmatic fluid washes pollen from the insects and crosspollination is achieved. Most insects escape from the stigmatic fluid. During the second day of anthesis the stigmatic fluid disappears, the stigmas become non-receptive to pollen and anther dehiscence begins. Self-pollination (direct or facilitated autogamy) cannot occur. Following the third day of anthesis, the flower submerges. The staminal and perianth parts abscise as the fruit matures underwater.
Description
Keywords
water lilies, flowers, insects, plant fertilization
Citation
Chaney, T.P. (1979). The floral biology of Nymphaea odorata Aiton (Unpublished thesis). Southwest Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas.