Comparative flower structure of three species of sundew (Drosera anglica,Drosera linearis, andDrosera rotundifolia) in relation to breeding system

Abstract

Whereas much attention has been given to the fascinating prey-trapping leaves of carnivorous plants, less research has been conducted on their flower structure and breeding systems. Accordingly, a comparative study of the floral morphology and anatomy of the three species of sundews (Droseraceae: Drosera anglica Huds., Drosera linearis Goldie, and Drosera rotundifolia L.) in Saskatchewan was performed to ascertain the presence of floral rewards for potential pollinators and to obtain pollen to ovule ratios, an indicator of breeding system. Utilizing light and scanning electron microscopy, differences between the three species were apparent in length of styles, number of placentas, anther and pollen colour, and structure of glandular trichomes on sepals. The occurrence of features unique to each species does not support the concept of D. anglica as a hybrid of the other two species. Flowers of all three species lack nectaries, although clusters of papillate cells that were reminiscent of secretory tissue were observed at the apices of anthers and at the summits of ovaries. Pollen to ovule ratios were low for all species, ranging from 9.0 to 18.7 in D. rotundifolia and D. linearis, respectively, suggesting an autogamous breeding system for each species.Key words: Drosera anglica, Drosera linearis, Drosera rotundifolia, Droseraceae, comparative flower structure, pollen to ovule ratios, breeding system.