Speciation and reproductive system evolution in the antillean plant genus gesneria

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The origin and maintenance of the phenomenal floral diversity of flowering plants is a topic that has fascinated evolutionary biologists since Darwin. An important driver of floral diversity in flowering plants is the interaction between plants and animal pollinators. The research proposed addresses parallel evolution of the reproductive system in the plant genus Gesneria, a genus in the African violet family (Gesneriaceae). In Gesneria, there have been multiple evolutionary transitions from hummingbird-pollinated plants (typically characterised by red tubular flowers and diurnal nectar production) to bat-pollinated plants (with white or green flowers and nocturnal nectar production). Using quantitative genetic tools and through investigation of the ecology (habitat, climate, geographical ranges, and population sizes) that are typically associated with these transitions, we will study the genetic bases and ecological circumstances underlying these flower transitions. We will also study the impact of these transitions on speciation and extinction rates. This research will help increase understanding of the genetic bases of pollinator transitions and the ecological circumstances under which they evolve. It will also improve our understanding of the impact of such transitions on global biodiversity issues.