Re: [aroid-l] self pollination of aroids

From: Marc Gibernau gibernau at cict.fr> on 2003.05.21 at 07:38:53(10277) Dear Julius, Jason & Friends, Apomixis do not produce more and different genetic material as all the seeds are identitical as their mother, they are all clone but instead of being bulbils,... they are seeds. So if the mother was genetically variable (heterozygosite) its offspring will also be... This way of reproduction is like a clonal reproduction that leads to the formation of seeds (with the advantage/disadvantage of been dispersed: new habitat colonization suitable or not!!!). Apomixis in general does not prevent from been cross-pollinated, as Julius mentioned this "breeding system" can operate when sexual partners are lacking later if the population grows apomixis can co-exist or be replaced by cross-pollination. +More Jason is right when he says that self-pollination can create new genetic information by recombination whereas apomixis no (except mutations). The problem with self-pollination is that inbreeding depression can occur: lethal combinations and part of the offspring will die (but it's a form a selection!!!). I hope I have clarified some of the questions. All the best, Marc

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