DISSERTATION RESEARCH: Evolution of floral symmetry in Lamiales

University Of Missouri-Saint Louis, Saint Louis MO

Investigators

Abstract

Flowers exhibit remarkable variation in form, affecting how pollinating insects recognize them, but the evolution of that form is not well understood. The mints and their relatives are a good group in which to study the evolution of floral shape, because there have been many changes from radial symmetry to bilateral symmetry and back. This project will test the hypothesis that (a) a major shift from radial symmetry to bilateral symmetry within the mint relatives correlates with extra copies of floral symmetry patterning genes, and changes in gene expression; (b) a return to radial symmetry occurred by diversification of the same genes. Mints and their relatives are commonly used as ornamental plants for their spectacular flowers; they will thus provide an excellent backyard example for the education of the general public on evolution and development, and plant-insect interactions. Additionally, the project will involve the training of two undergraduate students.