Abstract Detail

Tropical Biology Section

Terry, Irene [1], Roemer, Robert [2], Chockley, Christina [2], Jacobsen, Jennifer [2].

Modeling of cone thermogenesis that is associated with pollination by thrips or weevils of Australian Macrozamia cycads.

Cone traits (volatile components and thermogenesis) of three cycad species
in the Australian genus Macrozamia are noted for differences related to their specific insect pollinators, the weevil, Tranes spp., or the thrips, Cycadothrips chadwicki. Pollinator movement into and out of cones coincides with cone thermogenesis and peak odor emission: just after sunset for Tranes, and at mid-day for Cycadothrips. Also, specific volatile components are associated with pollinator specificity. Female cone traits are similar to those of their conspecific male cones in terms of timing of volatile emissions and volatile components, but their heating and volatile output is lower. We have modeled and accurately predicted (average error

1 - University of Utah, Department of Biology, 257 S. 1400 E., Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112, USA
2 - University of Utah, Mechanical Engineering, 50 Central Dr., Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112, USA

Keywords:
weevil pollination
cycads
thermogenesis
volatiles
modeling
thrips pollination.

Presentation Type: Paper
Session: 8-9
Location: Peruvian (Cliff Lodge)
Date: Monday, August 2nd, 2004
Time: 10:45 AM
Abstract ID:790