Abstract
BackgroundObtaining an optimal flower temperature can be crucial for plant reproduction because temperature mediates flower growth and development, pollen and ovule viability, and influences pollinator visitation. The thermal ecology of flowers is an exciting, yet understudied field of plant biology.ScopeThis review focuses on several attributes that modify exogenous heat absorption and retention in flowers. We discuss how flower shape, orientation, heliotropic movements, pubescence, coloration, opening–closing movements and endogenous heating contribute to the thermal balance of flowers. Whenever the data are available, we provide quantitative estimates of how these floral attributes contribute to heating of the flower, and ultimately plant fitness.OutlookFuture research should establish form–function relationships between floral phenotypes and temperature, determine the fitness effects of the floral microclimate, and identify broad ecological correlates with heat capture mechanisms.
Highlights
Obtaining and maintaining an optimal flower temperature is often imperative for successful plant reproduction
Plants occur in a vast range of climatic and ecological conditions, and given their sessile nature, it is unsurprising that plants have evolved floral traits that modify the temperature of their reproductive organs
Modification of floral temperature is likely to be crucial for plant reproduction in an ever-changing thermal environment under global change
Summary
Obtaining and maintaining an optimal flower temperature is often imperative for successful plant reproduction. We discuss six key aspects of flowers that help to increase their temperature: flower shape, orientation (including heliotropism), colour, opening and closure movements, pubescence and thermogenesis.
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