We show how anisotropic, grooved features facilitate the trapping and directed transport of droplets on lubricated, liquid-shedding surfaces. Capillary action pins droplets to topographic surface ...features, enabling transport along the feature while inhibiting motion across (or detachment from) the feature. We demonstrate the robustness of this capillary-based mechanism for directed droplet transport on slippery surfaces by combining experiments on synthetic, lubricant-infused surfaces with observations on the natural trapping surface of a carnivorous pitcher plant. Controlling liquid navigation on synthetic surfaces promises to unlock significant potential in droplet-based technologies. Our observations also offer novel insight into the evolution of the Nepenthes pitcher plant, indicating that the 'pitfall' trapping mechanism is enhanced by the lubricant-infused, macroscopic grooves on the slippery peristome surface, which guide prey into the trap in a way that is more tightly controlled than previously considered.
The holoparasitic angiosperm Orobanche minor parasitizes a diverse range of flowering plants from at least 16 orders in both the monocots and eudicots. However, populations of O. minor show host ...specificity at a local level. Our previous work identified the potential for host specificity to act as a catalyst for genetic divergence among populations of O. minor. Here we have extended this investigation by sampling populations from multiple hosts, across a broad geographic range. Sequence characterised amplified region (SCAR) data identified an exotic host-generalist lineage and a native host-specialist lineage of O. minor, suggesting genetic structure in this species is defined by both host specificity and geography. In addition, host-range overlap, discordant tree topologies, and cryptic morphology indicate the presence of gene flow between alien races and endemic populations. Therefore, repeated introductions of alien races of O. minor from disparate sources leading to introgression with native populations, and cryptic race formation, seem to have contributed to the taxonomic confusion associated with this species. We speculate that radiations associated with broad host range and divergent host ecologies may have promoted the unusually wide geographic distribution and diversification of this species. Finally, evidence of multiple shifts to exotic hosts, coupled with the predicted northward shift in climatic suitability, identify the potential for range expansion in alien races of O. minor, which may threaten nationally scarce native taxa with genetic assimilation. Our phylogenetic analysis provides a framework for identifying host races in Orobanche with a view to setting conservation priorities.
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BFBNIB, DOBA, EMUNI, FIS, FZAB, GEOZS, GIS, IJS, IMTLJ, IZUM, KILJ, KISLJ, MFDPS, NLZOH, NMLJ, NUK, OILJ, PILJ, PNG, SAZU, SBCE, SBJE, SBMB, SBNM, UILJ, UKNU, UL, UM, UPUK, VKSCE, ZAGLJ
Summary
A systematic monograph is presented for
Hydnora
(Hydnoraceae), a poorly known genus of holoparasitic plants distributed across Africa, Madagascar and southern Arabia. Species of
Hydnora
are ...characterised by their underground habit, unusual fleshy flowers and complete absence of leaves or photosynthetic tissue. This is the first detailed monograph of the genus
Hydnora
since 1935 and is informed by a comprehensive survey of herbarium specimens and literature. Detailed descriptions, full synonymy, distribution maps and discussion concerning confusable taxa are provided for each species, along with notes on ethnobotany, ecology and conservation. We place particular emphasis on the taxonomic value of osmophore geometry and positioning in living and dried material, which are highly consistent within species. We also provide the first detailed assessment of host range across the genus.
Hydnora hanningtonii
Rendle and
H. solmsiana
Dinter are reinstated from synonymy, and
H. bolinii
S.Hatt is newly described here. The infrageneric classification is reviewed and a key is provided for both living and dried material. Species are accompanied by both illustrations and photographs of living and dried material where possible.
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The giant Amazonian waterlily (genus
) produces the largest floating leaves in the plant kingdom. The leaves' notable vasculature has inspired artists, engineers, and architects for centuries. ...Despite the aesthetic appeal and scale of this botanical enigma, little is known about the mechanics of these extraordinary leaves. For example, how do these leaves achieve gigantic proportions? We show that the geometric form of the leaf is structurally more efficient than those of other smaller species of waterlily. In particular, the spatially varying thickness and regular branching of the primary veins ensures the structural integrity necessary for extensive coverage of the water surface, enabling optimal light capture despite a relatively low leaf biomass. Leaf gigantism in waterlilies may have been driven by selection pressures favoring a large surface area at an economical material cost, for outcompeting other plants in fast-drying ephemeral pools.
We conducted the first detailed investigation of the floral architecture and reproductive biology of two species from the genus Dorstenia, which are poorly known relatives of Ficus (Moraceae). Our ...aims were to extend and refine knowledge of the understudied genus Dorstenia and to explore possible insights into the evolution of the fig syconium. We characterised four key stages of floral development using light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and histological staining. Reproductive biology was found to be complex and species‐specific. Both study species are monoecious and produce an inflorescence of minute male and female flowers. Protogyny, associated with a spatial separation of male and female flowers and asynchronous stamen development, was species‐specific, as was seed set. Our results reveal novel insights into the complex reproductive biology of an under‐studied genus in the family Moraceae. We propose that exploring the reproductive biology of Dorstenia and other poorly known Ficus relatives will provide insights into the evolution of the fig syconium – the unique reproductive structure of this economically and ecologically important genus.
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Societal Impact Statement
Rafflesia
is the genus that contains the world's largest flowers. Despite their global appeal, most of the 42 known species are now at risk of extinction. Urgent action is ...needed to protect these remarkable flowers. A combined approach to conservation is recommended, including a greater level of habitat protection and support for local community action groups.
Rafflesia
is a suitable new icon for conservation in the Asian tropics.
Summary
The genus
Rafflesia
, which includes the world's largest flowers, has aroused curiosity among scientists for centuries and features prominently in local culture across Southeast Asia. The plant has long been used in ethnobotanical medicine and, more recently, as a source of revenue from ecotourism. But despite its acclaim,
Rafflesia
remains poorly understood in many respects. Taxonomy is disputed, new species are described each year, and the plant has proven recalcitrant to cultivation. This has hindered conservation, and most of the 42 known species are now severely threatened, yet only one is listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). We estimate that 60% of
Rafflesia
species face a severe risk of extinction (equivalent to Critically Endangered CR). Moreover, we predict that at least 67% of known habitats fall outside protected areas, exacerbating their vulnerability. Alarmingly, recent observations suggest taxa are still being eradicated before they are even known to science. We present recent scientific discoveries and probable extinctions and highlight case studies of conservation success, with a focus on the role of local people. We propose a multi‐pronged conservation approach combining strengthened taxonomy, ex situ propagation, ecotourism, and an extension of protected areas. We suggest action devolved to local communities and awareness campaigns linked to social media networks will be crucial outside of protected jurisdictions. Finally, we propose to establish
Rafflesia
as a new icon for plant conservation in the Asian tropics. A combined approach might just save some of the world's most remarkable flowers, most of which are now on the brink of being lost.
Ang
Rafflesia
ay isang urihay ng halaman na kilalang namumukadkad ng pinakamalalaking bulaklak sa buong mundo. Bagama't nakabibighani at kahalihalina, karamihan sa apatnapu't dalawang sarihay ay nanganganib pa ring malipol sa kanilang likas na pinamumugaran. Dahil rito, kailangan ng agarang pagkilos upang maproteksyunan ang kahanga‐hanga at kakaibang mga bulaklak na ito. Matitiyak ang pangangalaga ng mga ito sa pamamagitan ng kolektibong pamamaraan tulad ng masidhing pangangalaga sa kagubatan, at pagpapaigting ng suporta sa lokal na komunidad. Ang
Rafflesia
ay simbolo ng konserbasyon sa tropikal na kagubatan sa Asya.
Rafflesia
adalah genus kepada bunga terbesar di dunia. Walaupun menjadi tarikan diperingkat global, dengan kebanyakan spesies daripada sejumlah 42 spesies telah kenalpasti, namun masih mempunyai risiko untuk mengalami kepupusan. Oleh itu, tindakan bagi melindungi bunga yang istimewa ini perlu dilaksanakan dengan kadar segera. Gabungan pendekatan untuk pemuliharaan adalah disyorkan, iaitu merangkumi usaha yang lebih tinggi bagi meningkatkan tahap perlindungan habitat, dan memberi pelbagai jenis sokongan dan dokongan untuk kumpulan tindakan dikalangan masyarakat setempat. Ini dapat menjadikan
Rafflesia
sebagai ikon baharu yang sesuai untuk usaha pemuliharaan di kawasan tropika Asia.
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