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Understanding whether increasing seeding rate in canola (Brassica napus) provides a yield‐compensatory mechanism with delayed planting due to weather or logistical issues is important. We aim to refine agronomic recommendations for canola production under short‐season growing conditions to establish an optimal planting date and identify any interaction of spring canola cultivar and seeding rate with planting date. We conducted this study in 2014, 2015, and 2016 in Creston, MT, as split–split plot with planting dates, cultivar maturities, and seeding rates as mainplot, subplot, and sub‐subplot, respectively. Except 2016, 0.06 Mg day−1 yield reduction with delayed planting was observed in 2014 and likely in 2015. In 2016, daytime temperatures rose early in May, facilitating the early cessation of node production on the mainstem and, therefore, exposure to high temperatures at flower of the mid‐April planted canola. Generally, the mid‐April planted canola showed more nodes on the mainstem at the bolting stage. The low seeding rate increased pod number (p < 0.0001) as yield‐compensatory mechanism. The late‐maturing cultivar only showed yield advantage when planted in mid‐April, seeded at low seeding rate, or planted during a hot and dry year. In this study, the optimal planting date for canola in this region or similar short‐season growing condition is mid‐April, and the probability of yield loss increases when planting is delayed. The optimal seeding rate of this study is 86 live seeds m−2 regardless of planting date. Overall, a high seeding rate as a management strategy to compensate for yield loss with delayed planting is not recommended. Core Ideas: Yield reduction with delayed planting was due to the cessation of nodes with rising temperature.The high seeding rate did not provide a yield‐compensating mechanism with delayed planting.Overall, yield compensation was achieved by increased pod number at low seeding rate.Late‐maturing canola showed a yield advantage when planted early, during hot and dry year, or at low seeding rate.Planting mid‐April at medium seeding (86 live seeds m−2) is optimal under short‐season growing region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flowering plants, also known as angiosperms, emerged approximately 150 to 200 million years ago. Since then, they have undergone rapid and extensive expansion, now encompassing around 90% of all land plant species. The remarkable diversification of this group has been a subject of in-depth investigations, and several evolutionary innovations have been proposed to account for their success. In this primer, we will specifically focus on one such innovation: the advent of seeds containing endosperm. Butel and Köhler give an overview of the process of reproduction in flowering plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among flowering plants, self‐incompatibility is considered the most efficient system for avoiding self‐fertilization. However, many self‐incompatible plants have also evolved floral mechanisms to reduce sexual conflict. In China, some studies of Bulbophyllum have been reported to be self‐incompatible and no fruit sets. However, we have observed relatively high fruit sets in Bulbophyllum funingense. Therefore, we speculated that if B. funingense is also self‐incompatible, and it might present a floral mechanism to avoid sexual conflict. Natural fruit sets, pollinia removal and deposition rates were determined and breeding system was tested in a hand‐pollination experiment. The pollination process and visiting frequency of pollinators and their behavior after escape from access were observed and recorded. Floral traits associated with pollination and pollinator size were measured. B. funingense was completely self‐incompatible, the fruit sets of cross‐pollination in 2 years were all more than 70%, and the natural fruit sets for 2 years were 1.70 ± 4.31% and 6.63 ± 5.29%, respectively. B. funingense did not produce strong odor or nectar, but produced a kind of secretions from its labellum that attracted flies. Calliphora vicina (Calliphoridae) was its only effective pollinator. When C. vicina licked the secretions, they were stuck in the access for a long time. Thus, when they escaped from access, they almost always flew quickly away from the inflorescence removing pollinia most of the times. In B. funingense, a floral mechanism improves pollinia transfer efficiency, reduces pollinia waste, promotes pollination success, reduces the incidence of self‐pollination, and avoids sexual conflict to a certain extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Orchids constitute one of the most spectacular radiations of flowering plants. However, their origin, spread across the globe, and hotspots of speciation remain uncertain due to the lack of an up‐to‐date phylogeographic analysis.We present a new Orchidaceae phylogeny based on combined high‐throughput and Sanger sequencing data, covering all five subfamilies, 17/22 tribes, 40/49 subtribes, 285/736 genera, and c. 7% (1921) of the 29 524 accepted species, and use it to infer geographic range evolution, diversity, and speciation patterns by adding curated geographical distributions from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants.The orchids' most recent common ancestor is inferred to have lived in Late Cretaceous Laurasia. The modern range of Apostasioideae, which comprises two genera with 16 species from India to northern Australia, is interpreted as relictual, similar to that of numerous other groups that went extinct at higher latitudes following the global climate cooling during the Oligocene. Despite their ancient origin, modern orchid species diversity mainly originated over the last 5 Ma, with the highest speciation rates in Panama and Costa Rica.These results alter our understanding of the geographic origin of orchids, previously proposed as Australian, and pinpoint Central America as a region of recent, explosive speciation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: More than 70% of all vascular plants lack conservation status assessments. We aimed to address this shortfall in knowledge of species extinction risk by using the World Checklist of Vascular Plants to generate the first comprehensive set of predictions for a large clade: angiosperms (flowering plants, c. 330 000 species).We used Bayesian Additive Regression Trees (BART) to predict the extinction risk of all angiosperms using predictors relating to range size, human footprint, climate, and evolutionary history and applied a novel approach to estimate uncertainty of individual species‐level predictions.From our model predictions, we estimate 45.1% of angiosperm species are potentially threatened with a lower bound of 44.5% and upper bound of 45.7%.Our species‐level predictions, with associated uncertainty estimates, do not replace full global, or regional Red List assessments, but can be used to prioritise predicted threatened species for full Red List assessment and fast‐track predicted non‐threatened species for Least Concern assessments. Our predictions and uncertainty estimates can also guide fieldwork, inform systematic conservation planning and support global plant conservation efforts and targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar activity has a significant influence on Earth's climate and may drive many biological processes. Here, we measured growth in 11 tree species distributed along an ≈600‐km latitudinal gradient in South‐Central Chile, recording the width of their growth‐rings among periods of maximum (highest number of sunspots) and minimum (lowest number of sunspots) solar activity. In one of these species, Quillaja saponaria, we experimentally assessed three ecophysiological traits (CO2 fixation through photosynthesis [Amax], growth and leaf production) as well as the expression of five genes related to cell wall elongation and expansion following exposure to high and low levels of UV‐B radiation, simulating scenarios of maximum and minimum solar activity, respectively. We found lower tree growth during the periods of maximum solar activity, with this trend being more evident at lower latitudes, where UV‐B radiation is higher. Exposure of Q. saponaria to higher levels of UV‐B affected the ecophysiological parameters, revealing a decrease in Amax, growth and leaf production. In addition, higher levels of UV‐B led to repression in four of the five genes studied. Our results may help foresee environmental scenarios for different plant species associated with solar activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycotyly, an interesting characteristic of seed-bearing dicotyledonous plants with more than two cotyledons, represents one of the least explored plant characters for utilization, even though cotyledon number was used to classify flowering plants in 1682. Gymnosperm and angiosperm species are generally known to have one or two cotyledons, but scattered reports exist on irregular cotyledon numbers in many plant species, and little is known about the extent of polycotyly in plant taxa. Here, we attempt to update the documentation of reports on polycotyly in plant species and highlight some lines of research for a better understanding of polycotyly. This effort revealed 342 angiosperm species of 237 genera in 80 (out of 416) families and 160 gymnosperm species of 26 genera in 6 (out of 12) families with reported or cited polycotyly. The most advanced research included the molecular-based inference of the phylogeny of flowering plants, showing a significant departure from the cotyledon-based classification of angiosperm plants, and the application of genetic cotyledon mutants as tools to clone and characterize the genes regulating cotyledon development. However, there were no reports on breeding lines with a 100% frequency of polycotyly. Research is needed to discover plant species with polycotyly and to explore the nature, development, genetics, evolution, and potential use of polycotyly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the evolution and maintenance of plant sexual diversity needs to incorporate both regional processes and local climate factors across large geographic scales. Using data of woody flowering plants from a global set of large-scale forest plots and multinomial logistic regression, we quantified regional effects on the proportions of dioecious, monoecious, and hermaphroditic species and their abundance while incorporating evolutionary history and local climate factors. Our results showed that plants were more likely to be dioecious than hermaphroditic in Oceania and tropical Asia but were more likely to be monoecious than dioecious in Europe and North America compared with tropical Africa. We further found that plants were more likely to be monoecious than dioecious in island communities. Plants were more likely to be monoecious than dioecious in areas with high precipitation but were more likely to be dioecious than monoecious in areas with high precipitation of coldest quarter. Our results suggest that both regional processes and local climate factors play important roles in shaping the geographic distribution of plant sexual systems, providing a baseline for predicting future changes in forest communities in the context of global change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angiosperms and bryophytes, though distantly related plant groups, have many similar ecological and economic implications, including medicinal value. Therefore, this study aimed to analyse the phenolic and flavonoids composition and antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Helianthus annuus L. (Angiosperms-Asteraceae) and another plant, a moss (Bryophyta), Hyophila involuta (Hook.) Jaeg., aerial parts (leaves), prepared in four different extracts (methanol, chloroform, distilled water, and petroleum ether). Phytochemical screening was conducted using standard methods of precipitation and colouration reactions. The Folin-Ciocalteu method was employed to determine the total phenol content, while the Aluminium Chloride Colorimetric method was used for flavonoid content determination. The antioxidant activity was measured through two methods: DPPH and NOSA scavenging activity. The phytochemical screening detected the presence and absence of fixed oils and fats, flavonoids, saponins, terpenoids, tannins, polyphenols, carbohydrates, and glycosides in both plants. The antibacterial and antifungal activity of both plants' methanolic extracts was examined against bacterial and fungal pathogens, i.e., Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis and fungal strains, i.e., Fusarium oxysporum and Aspergillus niger. The results were compared to a regular antibiotic disc and negative control that served as a methanol solvent. The methanolic extract of H. annuus has higher total phenol and flavonoid content, as well as antioxidant and antimicrobial activity, than H. involuta. Based on these data, it can be concluded that, while H. annuus is more effective than H. involuta, both distantly related plant species have similar phytochemical profiles and should be included equally in future herbal compositions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: A new method, pixel-contrast densitometry, that is, measurement of the wood density based on photographs of wood cross-sections, was introduced recently for conifers. We tested it for woody plants with other types of wood structure using eight species of shrubs and small trees in Southern Siberia. Two steps were proposed to create black and white images from original photos, where cell walls are black, and empty spaces are white. In these images, the proportion of empty spaces, porosity, was measured. For all species, five measurements per ring appeared to be similar, but measurements between rings formed in different years were different. A comparison of decades of measurements with examples of three species showed the presence of common inter-annual variation in wood porosity, particularly its maximum, mean, and minimum values. These easily measured characteristics register environmental variability during their formation. Directions for further research were also discussed. This methodological study describes the adaptation of a new method in digital wood anatomy, pixel-contrast densitometry, for angiosperm species. The new method was tested on eight species of shrubs and small trees in Southern Siberia, whose wood structure varies from ring-porous to diffuse-porous, with different spatial organizations of vessels. A two-step transformation of wood cross-section photographs by smoothing and Otsu's classification algorithm was proposed to separate images into cell wall areas and empty spaces within (lumen) and between cells. Good synchronicity between measurements within the ring allowed us to create profiles of wood porosity (proportion of empty spaces) describing the growth ring structure and capturing inter-annual differences between rings. For longer-lived species, 14–32-year series from at least ten specimens were measured. Their analysis revealed that maximum (for all wood types), mean, and minimum porosity (for diffuse-porous wood) in the ring have common external signals, mostly independent of ring width, i.e., they can be used as ecological indicators. Further research directions include a comparison of this method with other approaches in densitometry, clarification of sample processing, and the extraction of ecologically meaningful data from wood structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Evolutionary transitions from outcrossing to selfing in flowering plants have convergent morphological and genomic signatures and can involve parallel evolution within related lineages. Adaptive evolution of morphological traits is often assumed to evolve faster than nonadaptive features of the genomic selfing syndrome.We investigated phenotypic and genomic changes associated with transitions from distyly to homostyly in the Primula oreodoxa complex. We determined whether the transition to selfing occurred more than once and investigated stages in the evolution of morphological and genomic selfing syndromes using 22 floral traits and both nuclear and plastid genomic data from 25 populations.Two independent transitions were detected representing an earlier and a more recently derived selfing lineage. The older lineage exhibited classic features of the morphological and genomic selfing syndrome. Although features of both selfing syndromes were less developed in the younger selfing lineage, they exhibited parallel development with the older selfing lineage. This finding contrasts with the prediction that some genomic changes should lag behind adaptive changes to morphological traits.Our findings highlight the value of comparative studies on the timing and extent of transitions from outcrossing to selfing between related lineages for investigating the tempo of morphological and molecular evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cryptovivipary is a condition in which the zygote develops inside fruit without protruding for dispersal. • High moisture levels within and outside the syconium can induce this phenomenon in three monoecious Ficus species. • Occurrence can be a non-adaptive approach of plants and the influence of the microenvironment surrounding the seeds. • The phenomenon can advance understanding of evolutionary factors and vivipary's impact on seed production and survival. Vivipary in Angiosperms refers to the precocious germination of offspring while they persist on the mother plant. True vivipary and pseudovivipary represent distinctive and adaptive strategies in plants. This phenomenon has never been documented in the genus Ficus (Moraceae family) before. The family Moraceae showcases a remarkable variety of floral structures, methods of pollination, and reproductive mechanisms. The present study is the first to document cryptovivipary in three monoecious fig species. The occurrence of this rare phenomenon could be plants' non-adaptive approach, as well as the influence of the microenvironment surrounding the seed of the species. Based on the observations made in this study, cryptovivipary in these three species appeared to be promoted by high levels of moisture, along with the microenvironment within the syconium that is encountered after seed maturation. Vivipary was documented predominantly during the heavy rainfall period in the monsoon season, spanning from late May to early August 2022, with July being the peak period. Nonetheless, it is important to acknowledge the limitations of this study in that it was not possible to investigate the survival and outcomes of viviparous offspring in comparison to non-viviparous seedlings, primarily due to resource limitations during the experimental period. Subsequent studies on reproductive biology, followed by seed setting and the effect of microenvironment inside syconia could advance our understanding of evolutionary factors and the influence of vivipary on seed production and survival in natural settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this experiment was to assess how the interaction of two treatments influenced the growth and flowering of two varieties of Panicle hydrangea shrubs. The first treatment was plant pruning. Simultaneously, the plants received one of the three following treatments: root application of Trichoderma atroviride, root application of BlackJak biostimulant, or foliar application of a multi-component fertilizer. Simultaneous pruning and inoculation of the plants with the Trichoderma atroviride mycelium improved the length of hydrangea shoots the most, as compared with the control plants (18%). These two treatments also increased the number of flowers (16–47%, depending on the variety) and the fresh weight of plants (10–28%) compared with the control plants. T. atroviride alone improved the number of flowers in both varieties (19–24%) and the diameter of inflorescences in the 'Silver Dollar' one (17%). The foliar nutrition increased the fresh weight of plants by 7–57%, depending on the cultivar and pruning. It also increased the diameter and number of inflorescences in one of the varieties. Together with pruning, it intensified the growth of shoots in both cultivars (5–10%). The BlackJak biostimulant treatment gave ambiguous results. In combination with pruning, it improved the length of shoots (15%) in one cultivar and the fresh weight in the other (18%). Without pruning, the treatment increased the number of flowers (16%) and the diameter of inflorescences (9%) in one cultivar. It increased the fresh weight of plants in both cultivars (19–21%). Regardless of the other treatments, pruning increased the length of the shoots and the fresh weight of the plants. On the other hand, it reduced the number of flowers and their diameter. In most cases, the biostimulant treatment and foliar fertilization improved the growth and flowering of the plants. In combination with pruning, they improved the growth of the hydrangea shrubs but reduced the number and diameter of flowers. The simultaneous Ta treatment and pruning were the most beneficial for the growth and flowering of the panicled hydrangea plants grown in containers in a nursery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Common duckweeds are flowering plants of the family Araceae, comprising the smallest angiosperms of the plant kingdom, a species of aquatic algae of universal distribution, found on the surface of freshwater bodies, mainly in puddles, swamps, lakes, and calm rivers. Recently, different research has been carried out on its potential and usefulness. Due to its nutritional composition, protein contribution, high fiber content and low fat and carbohydrate content, it would be an adequate input to generate products of high nutritional value, characteristics that make it interesting compared to other species. It is used as a complement to commercial diets in a wide variety of animals such as birds, ruminants, non-ruminants, crustaceans, and fish, reducing feed costs by up to 50 %. Likewise, used in remediation processes of a wide range of chemical contaminants with a high elimination rate, they can absorb some dissolved substances and provide oxygen through photosynthesis. It has been indicated that they are low cost of construction, maintenance, easy to operate, have a wide tolerance to growing conditions, are generally easy to harvest, and do not compete with farmland. In the environmental field, it is important to find alternative and innovative raw materials, even without the need to use growth media or fertilizers, however, their acceptance as a food source needs extensive research regarding their nutritional value, large-scale yield, economic market supply and analysis of antinutritive components for human food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incidence of Hop latent viroid (HLVd) affecting cannabis plants in licenced production facilities in Canada during 2020–2023 was determined by RT-PCR analyses of 15 947 samples from nine provinces. Positive detection ranged from 5.3% to 92% of samples submitted, depending on province and year of sampling. The average country-wide HLVd infection incidence was 25.6%. Symptoms on affected plants varied with plant growth stage, and ranged from asymptomatic to mild leaf curl and mottling on stock (mother) plants and on vegetative plants, to extreme stunting and reduced inflorescence development on flowering plants. All symptomatic and some asymptomatic plants contained a 256 nucleotide RNA fragment with 100% sequence homology to HLVd from GenBank. The viroid was detected in various tissues of stock, vegetative, and flowering plants, including the uppermost leaves, at middle and lower positions in the canopy, and in the roots. The incidence of infection varied with the cannabis genotype. Flowering plants displayed yellowing or darkening of inflorescence leaves surrounding the pistillate flowers. Reductions of 12–42% in inflorescence stem lengths, fresh weights, and plant heights were observed in infected plants compared to noninfected plants, depending on the genotype. Levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and terpenes in diseased inflorescences were also significantly lower. The development of glandular trichomes which produce and store cannabinoids and terpenes was greatly reduced by HLVd infection. The affected trichomes had shorter stalk lengths and smaller glandular head sizes, and appeared shrivelled upon drying of the inflorescences. Hop latent viroid poses a significant economic threat to the cannabis industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthocyanins play crucial roles in pollen protection and pollinator attraction in flowering plants. However, the mechanisms underlying flower color determination and whether floral anthocyanin regulators participate in other processes remain largely unresolved in soybeans (Glycine max). In this study, we investigated the genetic components and mechanisms governing anthocyanin biosynthesis in soybean flowers. Molecular and genetic studies have characterized two antagonistic regulators, the positive activator GmMYBA3 and the negative repressor GmMYBR1, that modulate the gene expression of anthocyanin biosynthesis in soybean flowers. Further findings revealed a regulatory interplay between GmMYBA3 and GmMYBR1 bridged by GmTT8a, highlighting the complexity of anthocyanin regulation in different soybean organs. Exploration of additional soybean cultivars demonstrated the universality of GmMYBA3 and GmMYBR1 in regulating floral anthocyanin biosynthesis-related genes, with GmF3050H identified as a crucial determinant of white flower color. This study provides a molecular mechanism underlying soybean flower color determination, paving the way for the molecular modification of soybean flowers to probably enhance their resistance to abiotic stresses and attractiveness to pollinators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth and productivity, rhythm of development, and ontogenetic and spatial structure of cenopopulations of the Sosnowsky's hogweed (Heracleum sosnowskyi Manden.) on the territory of the Komi Republic were studied. The duration of the growing season of the H. sosnowskyi was 180–190 days due to the early spring germination of seeds and the long autumn growing season of pregenerative individual plants. The studied H. sosnowskyi CPs were characterized by left-sided ontogenetic spectra and high recovery indices. These properties characterized them as young and self-renewing plants. The greatest and the lowest numbers per the unit area had the juvenile and the generative plants (710–1700 and 1–3 individuals/m2, respectively). The average density of the immature and virginile individuals was 4–7 pcs/m2 and 12–16 pcs/m2, respectively. The absence of seedlings during the flowering period of the plants was discovered, resulting from of the synchronous germination of mericarps and the rapid passage of the post-emergence development stage. Plants began to flower at the age of 2–6 full years, and the maximum lifespan of the individuals was 7 years. H. sosnowskyi plants were characterized by high productivity. They formed up to 15 kg/m2 of wet phytomass, half of which was produced by generative individuals. The main part of the leaf area of the generative individuals was located in the upper layers (similarly to an "inverted pyramid") and absorbed about 70% of the incoming PAR. The identified mechanisms of the CP self-maintenance mediate the spread and retention of territories which are occupied by H. sosnowskyi plants on the northern border of the invaded range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vertebrate‐mediated seed dispersal is a common attribute of many living plants, and variation in the size and abundance of fleshy diaspores is influenced by regional climate and by the nature of vertebrate seed dispersers among present‐day floras. However, potential drivers of large‐scale variation in the abundance and size distributions of fleshy diaspores through geological time, and the importance of geographic variation, are incompletely known. This knowledge gap is important because fleshy diaspores are a key mechanism of energy transfer from photosynthesis to animals and may in part explain the diversification of major groups within birds and mammals. Various hypotheses have been proposed to explain variation in the abundance and size distribution of fleshy diaspores through time, including plant–frugivore co‐evolution, angiosperm diversification, and changes in vegetational structure and climate. We present a new data set of more than 800 georeferenced fossil diaspore occurrences spanning the Triassic–Oligocene, across low to mid‐ to high palaeolatitudes. We use this to quantify patterns of long‐term change in fleshy diaspores, examining the timing and geographical context of important shifts as a test of the potential evolutionary and climatic explanations. We find that the fleshy fruit sizes of angiosperms increased for much of the Cretaceous, during the early diversification of angiosperms from herbaceous ancestors with small fruits. Nevertheless, this did not cause a substantial net change in the fleshy diaspore size distributions across seed plants, because gymnosperms had achieved a similar size distribution by at least the Late Triassic. Furthermore, gymnosperm‐dominated Mesozoic ecosystems were mostly open, and harboured low proportions of specialised frugivores until the latest Cretaceous, suggesting that changes in vegetation structure and plant–frugivore co‐evolution were probably not important drivers of fleshy diaspore size distributions over long timescales. Instead, fleshy diaspore size distributions may be largely constrained by physical or life‐history limits that are shared among groups and diversify as a plant group expands into different growth forms/sizes, habitats, and climate regimes. Mesozoic gymnosperm floras had a low abundance of fleshy diaspores (<50% fleshy diaspore taxa), that was surpassed by some low‐latitude angiosperm floras in the Cretaceous. Eocene angiosperm floras show a mid‐ to high latitude peak in fleshy fruit abundance, with very high proportions of fleshy fruits that even exceed those seen at low latitudes both in the Eocene and today. Mid‐ to high latitude proportions of fleshy fruits declined substantially over the Eocene–Oligocene transition, resulting in a shift to more modern‐like geographic distributions with the highest proportion of fleshy fruits occurring in low‐latitude tropical assemblages. This shift was coincident with global cooling and the onset of Southern Hemisphere glaciation, suggesting that rapid cooling at mid‐ and high latitudes caused a decrease in availability of the climate conditions most favourable for fleshy fruits in angiosperms. Future research could be focused on examining the environmental niches of modern fleshy fruits, and the potential effects of climate change on fleshy fruit and frugivore diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastids are essential organelles in angiosperms and show non-Mendelian inheritance due to their evolution as endosymbionts. In approximately 80% of angiosperms, plastids are thought to be inherited from the maternal parent, whereas other species transmit plastids biparentally. Maternal inheritance can be generally explained by the stochastic segregation of maternal plastids after fertilization because the zygote is overwhelmed by the maternal cytoplasm. In contrast, biparental inheritance shows the transmission of organelles from both parents. In some species, maternal inheritance is not absolute and paternal leakage occurs at a very low frequency (∼10−5). A key process controlling the inheritance mode lies in the behavior of plastids during male gametophyte (pollen) development, with accumulating evidence indicating that the plastids themselves or their DNAs are eliminated during pollen maturation or at fertilization. Cytological observations in numerous angiosperm species have revealed several critical steps that mutually influence the degree of plastid transmission quantitatively among different species. This review revisits plastid inheritance from a mechanistic viewpoint. Particularly, we focus on a recent finding demonstrating that both low temperature and plastid DNA degradation mediated by the organelle exonuclease DEFECTIVE IN POLLEN ORGANELLE DNA DEGRADATION1 (DPD1) influence the degree of paternal leakage significantly in tobacco. Given these findings, we also highlight the emerging role of DPD1 in organelle DNA degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present experiment was conducted on essential oil constituents of (save) Salvia nemorosa L. plants at two different growth stages viz.- vegetative and flowering- at two regions of Ahar and Urmia. Aerial parts of Salvia were collected and dried to extract their essential oils by hydro–distillation method. The essential oils constituents were analyzed and identified based on GC/MS and GC analysis and calculating Kovats retention index. The results showed that the percentage of essential oils in sage flowers in each two regions was higher than vegetative leaves stage. The highest percentage and number of essential oils compounds were seen in flowers and in vegetative stage leaves of Ahar region and the lowest essential oils percentage was seen in flowers and vegetative stage leaves of Urmia region. Caryophyllen oxide was the main composition in the essential oils of flowers and vegetative stage leaves in plants of both regions. The percentage of caryophyllen oxide in essential oils of sage flowers (26.41) was higher than vegetative stage leaves (18.19) in Urmia region but the percentage of caryophyllen oxide was higher in vegetative stage leaves of Ahar region (28.37) than in its flowers (12.79). In addition to caryophyllen oxide, there were compositions such as spathulenol, trans–betacaryophyllen, para–cymene, 1–octen–3-ol and terpinen-4-ol with different percentages in the essential oil of sage flower of plants of both regions and there were trans-beta-caryophyllen, beta-ionone, and camphor in the essential oil of vegetative stage leaves of plants of Ahar region. Oxygenated sesquiterpenes had the highest amount in sage flowers and vegetative stage leaves in both regions compared to other chemical groups of essential oils. Amount of oxygenated sesquiterpenes in essential oil of flowers of the plants of Urmia region and essential oil of vegetative stage leaves of plants of Ahar region were 46/31% and 34/3%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Convention on Biological Diversity seeks to conserve at least 30% of global land and water areas by 2030, which is a challenge but also an opportunity to better preserve biodiversity, including flowering plants (angiosperms). Herein, we compiled a large database on distributions of over 300,000 angiosperm species and the key functional traits of 67,024 species. Using this database, we constructed biodiversity-environment models to predict global patterns of taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional diversity in terrestrial angiosperms and provide a comprehensive mapping of the three diversity facets. We further evaluated the current protection status of the biodiversity centers of these diversity facets. Our results showed that geographical patterns of the three facets of plant diversity exhibited substantial spatial mismatches and nonoverlapping conservation priorities. Idiosyncratic centers of functional diversity, particularly of herbaceous species, were primarily distributed in temperate regions and under weaker protection compared with other biodiversity centers of taxonomic and phylogenetic facets. Our global assessment of multifaceted biodiversity patterns and centers highlights the insufficiency and unbalanced conservation among the three diversity facets and the two growth forms (woody vs. herbaceous), thus providing directions for guiding the future conservation of global plant diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) is an important factor for integrating flowering signals through the photoperiod pathway, which significantly promotes flowering. Most chrysanthemum varieties are short-day plants, sensitive to the photoperiod, which limits their ornamental and annual production supply. In this study, we aim to analyze the nutrients and flowering-related genes of chrysanthemums with different photoperiod types and to clone and verify the function of the flowering-related gene CmFT. We found that the formation of floral buds requires the accumulation of starch while consuming soluble sugars and the expression patterns of flowering-related genes GIGANTEA (GI), CONSTANS (CO), and FT in C.morifolium ‘Zilian’ and C. morifolium ‘Zihongtuogui’ had a certain synchronization during floral buds differentiation according to our quantitative validation, and the expression levels of CmGI, CmCO and CmFT in C. morifolium ‘Zihongtuogui’ were higher than those in C. morifolium. ‘Zilian’ in the later stage of differentiation. CmFT was cloned from photosensitive chrysanthemums-C. morifolium ‘Zihongtuogui’ and polypeptide alignment and phylogenetic analysis showed that CmFT was clustered in FT-like subfamily. In further functional verification, we obtained two Arabidopsis transgenic lines. Our results showed that CmFT transgenic ft mutant lines can significantly accelerate flowering in Arabidopsis. Thus, we can initially confirm that CmFT plays an important role in promoting flowering, which may be the key reason for the photosensitivity of C. morifolium ‘Zihongtuogui’. Overall, the results of this study are of great importance in revealing the flowering mechanism of different photoperiod types of chrysanthemums. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SINA (Seven in absentia) E3 ligases are critical components of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). They are responsible for ubiquitination and are involved in numerous cellular processes. The functional mechanisms of SINAs have been extensively studied in a few angiosperms. However, our understanding of the origin and evolution of plant SINA genes remain limited. Here we performed a large-scale comprehensive analysis of SINA proteins from various plant lineages. The plant SINA family genes likely originated from a common ancestral gene prior to the divergence of bryophyte and gave rise to two clades. Within clade I, subsequent parallel innovations in lycophytes and ferns resulted in the formation of two branches. All SINA proteins contain an N-terminal cysteine-rich really interesting new gene (RING) domain for ubiquitination, two zinc-finger motifs, and a C-terminal domain required for substrate-binding and dimerization. The SINA genes gains and losses occurred in angiosperms, resulting in an increase in the number of gene copies in eudicots and monocots. The Gossypium genus SINAs showed a tendency for expansion via whole-genome duplication and polyploidy. Finally, global expression patterns revealed the functional diversification of SINA genes in developmental stage and response to hormones and abiotic stresses in Arabidopsis and rice. These findings provide an insight into the evolution and diversification of SINA E3 ligases in plants and enhance our understanding of the role they play in determining substrate specificity and environment stress adaptations in angiosperms.

Abstract Floral temperature is a flower characteristic that has the potential to impact the fitness of flowering plants and their pollinators. Likewise, the presence of floral temperature patterns, areas of contrasting temperature across the flower, can have similar impacts on the fitness of both mutualists. It is currently poorly understood how floral temperature changes under the influence of different weather conditions, and how floral traits may moderate these changes. The way that floral temperature changes with weather conditions will impact how stable floral temperatures are over time and their utility to plants and pollinators. The stability of floral temperature cues is likely to facilitate effective plant–pollinator interactions and play a role in the plant's reproductive success. We use thermal imaging to monitor how floral temperatures and temperature patterns of four plant species (Cistus ‘snow fire’ and ‘snow white’, Coreopsis verticillata and Geranium psilostemon) change with several weather variables (illumination, temperature; windspeed; cloud cover; humidity and pressure) during times that pollinators are active. All weather variables influenced floral temperature in one or more species. The directionality of these relationships was similar across species. In all species, light conditions (illumination) had the greatest influence on floral temperatures overall. Floral temperature and the extent to which flowers showed contrasting temperature patterns were influenced predominantly by light conditions. However, several weather variables had additional, lesser, influences. Furthermore, differences in floral traits, pigmentation and structure, likely resulted in differences in temperature responses to given conditions between species and different parts of the same flower. However, floral temperatures and contrasting temperature patterns that are sufficiently elevated for detection by pollinators were maintained across most conditions if flowers received moderate illumination. This suggests the presence of elevated floral temperature and contrasting temperature patterns are fairly constant and may have potential to influence plant–pollinator interactions across weather conditions.

Abstract The Japanese subalpine zone is dominated by an ecologically important forest biome, subalpine coniferous forest, constituting a distinct assemblage of cold‐tolerant angiosperm and conifer species. While being relatively intact compared to other forest biomes in Japan, subalpine coniferous forests are under significant threat from deer browsing, global warming and small population size effects. However, there is a severe lack of genetic resources available for this biome's major constituent plant species. This study aimed to develop chloroplast genome‐based genetic resources for 12 widespread subalpine tree and shrub species (7 angiosperms and 5 conifers) via genome skimming of whole‐genomic DNA using short reads (100–150 bp in length). For 10 species, whole chloroplast genomes were assembled via de novo‐based methods from 4 to 10 individuals per species sampled from across their ranges in Japan and, for non‐Japanese endemic species, elsewhere in northeast Asia. A total of 566 single nucleotide polymorphisms for Japanese samples and 768 for all samples (varying from 2 to 202 per species) were identified which were distributed in geographically restricted lineages in most species. In addition, between 9 and 58 polymorphic simple sequence repeat regions were identified per species. For two Ericaceae species (Rhododendron brachycarpum and Vaccinium vitis‐idaea) characterised by large chloroplast genomes, de novo assembly failed, but single nucleotide polymorphisms could be identified using reference mapping. These data will be useful for genetic studies of species taxonomic relationships, investigating phylogeographic patterns within species, developing chloroplast‐based markers for conservation genetic studies and has potential application for studies of environmental and ancient DNA.

Plants and insects are two of the more diverse and abundant organisms in terrestrial ecosystems. The fossil record of plant-insect interactions offers crucial insights into the coevolutionary dynamics between these groups, shedding light on the intricate relationships that have shaped terrestrial ecosystems. The study of fossil interactions is especially relevant in mid-Cretaceous ecosystems, a time of dramatic changes in the composition of floras and, consequently, in plant-insect relationships. Here, we describe the first suite of plant-insect interactions from the mid-Cretaceous of Mexico. We studied 554 plant fossils from the El Chango Lagerstätte (Cintalapa Formation, Chiapas, Mexico), including vegetative (leaves) and reproductive structures (fruits and seeds). The flora was dominated by gymnosperms (89.3%) followed by angiosperms (10.7%); other groups, such as pteridophytes and bryophytes, were absent. In total, 5.4% of the plant specimens hosted some damage. Angiosperms (all broad-leafed forms), despite being much less common than gymnosperms, expressed more evidence of damage by herbivores (35.6% of specimens damaged). In contrast, the narrow-leafed gymnosperms, the dominant group in the flora, hosted a much lower proportion of herbivory damage (1.8% of specimens damaged). The diversity of damage types (DTs) was relatively low: 14 DTs were identified, corresponding to seven FFGs, including margin feeding, hole feeding, surface feeding, piercing and sucking, oviposition, galling, and mining. Comparison with the other mid-Cretaceous plant-insect assemblages reveals a similar richness of DTs for angiosperms but a lower richness and diversity of DTs on gymnosperms from El Chango. These results indicate preferential herbivory on angiosperms (rather than on the available gymnosperms in the assemblage) by terrestrial arthropods during a period of major changes in the structure of terrestrial ecosystems. However, it is challenging to resolve whether this apparent preference is because insects particularly targeted angiosperms or if the herbivores simply targeted broad leaves in general, since most of the available gymnosperms from El Chango are scale-leafed forms.

Within the northern Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Nashik district stands out as the most ecologically diverse region. It is situated within the latitudes of 19° 59' 50.8344" N and 73° 47' 23.2908" E. Locally, several plant taxa remain unexplored. This study aims to investigate the floristic diversity and various taxonomic groups of angiosperms present in unreported taxonomic groups within the examined region. During the botanical study in the northern Western Ghats of Nashik locations, we examined the critically endangered morning glory (A rgyreia pilosa Wight & Arn.) flowering plant species, which was found in the concentrated region. This botanical investigation involved the collection of plant taxa from diverse regions and ecosystems, marking the first instance of similar collection. The scientific study conducted by the author uncovers novel data about A rgyreia pilosa Wight & Arn. in the Nashik district of the northern Western Ghats of Maharashtra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article is a response to criticisms of a previous study on avian species trees. The authors argue that the criticisms are unfounded and stem from subjective opinions and misconceptions of phylogenetic analysis. They defend the accuracy of their method, NJst, and highlight its alignment with other reliable methods. They also address concerns about data misalignments and the presence of paralogs, asserting that these factors have minimal impact on phylogenetic analysis. The authors conclude that their analysis demonstrates the robustness of NJst and refute the claims made by the critics. [Extracted from the article]

Addition to the angiosperm flora provides essential insights into the biodiversity of a region, contributing to ecological understanding and conservation planning. Gafargaon subdistrict under Mymensingh district in Bangladesh represents a diverse population of angiosperms with a multifaceted ecosystem that demands re-evaluation of the existing angiosperm diversity of Gafargaon to update the status of angiosperm taxa and facilitate their conservation efforts. With this endeavor, a total of 100 angiosperm taxa belonging to 90 genera and 46 families were uncovered as additional occurrence in Gafargaon. The species in the area showcased a variety of life forms, including 63 herbs, 14 shrubs, 14 trees, and 9 climbers. Among the recorded taxa, Chamaecostus cuspidatus (Nees & Mart.) C.D. Specht & D.W. Stev. was selected for antidiabetic drug design endeavor based on citation frequency and ethnomedicinal evidence. A total of 41 phytochemicals of C. cuspidatus were screened virtually, targeting the Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 protein through structure-based drug design approach, which unveiled two lead compounds, such as Tigogenin (-9.0 kcal/mol) and Diosgenin (-8.5 kcal/mol). The lead candidates demonstrated favorable pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties with no major side effects. Molecular dynamics simulation revealed notable stability and structural compactness of the lead compounds. Principal component analysis and Gibbs free energy landscape further supported the results of molecular dynamics simulation. Molecular mechanics-based MM/GBSA approach unraveled higher free binding energies of Diosgenin (-47.36 kcal/mol) and Tigogenin (-46.70 kcal/mol) over Alogliptin (-46.32 kcal/mol). The outcome of the present investigation would enrich angiosperm flora of Gafargaon and shed light on the role of C. cuspidatus to develop novel antidiabetic therapeutics to combat diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With ~ 14,000 extant species, ants are ubiquitous and of tremendous ecological importance. They have undergone remarkable diversification throughout their evolutionary history. However, the drivers of their diversity dynamics are not well quantified or understood. Previous phylogenetic analyses have suggested patterns of diversity dynamics associated with the Angiosperm Terrestrial Revolution (ATR), but these studies have overlooked valuable information from the fossil record. To address this gap, we conducted a comprehensive analysis using a large dataset that includes both the ant fossil record (~24,000 individual occurrences) and neontological data (~14,000 occurrences), and tested four hypotheses proposed for ant diversification: co-diversification, competitive extinction, hyper-specialization, and buffered extinction. Taking into account biases in the fossil record, we found three distinct diversification periods (the latest Cretaceous, Eocene, and Oligo-Miocene) and one extinction period (Late Cretaceous). The competitive extinction hypothesis between stem and crown ants is not supported. Instead, we found support for the co-diversification, buffered extinction, and hyper-specialization hypotheses. The environmental changes of the ATR, mediated by the angiosperm radiation, likely played a critical role in buffering ants against extinction and favoring their diversification by providing new ecological niches, such as forest litter and arboreal nesting sites, and additional resources. We also hypothesize that the decline and extinction of stem ants during the Late Cretaceous was due to their hyper-specialized morphology, which limited their ability to expand their dietary niche in changing environments. This study highlights the importance of a holistic approach when studying the interplay between past environments and the evolutionary trajectories of organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ratnagiri is a coastal district and a part of Konkan region of Maharashtra. During our floristic studies on ephemeral and herbaceous plants of lateritic plateaus of Ratnagiri district from year 2020 to 2022, we have collected 49 herbaceous and ephemeral flowering plant species new addition to the Ratnagiri district. Newly added above said plant species belonging to 19 families and among them 16 species are endemic to India. This paper provides detailed checklist with herbarium specimen numbers for all the collected species and photographs of 16 endemic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The occurrence of conducting vascular tissue in the pith (CVTP) of tracheophytes is noteworthy. Medullary bundles, one of the remarkable examples of CVTP, evolved multiple times across angiosperms, notably in the Caryophyllales. Yet, information on the occurrence of medullary bundles is fragmented, hampering our understanding of their structure–function relationships, and evolutionary implications.Using three plastid molecular markers (matK, rbcL, and rps16 intron), a phylogeny is constructed for 561 species of Caryophyllales, and anatomical data are assembled for 856 species across 40 families to investigate the diversity of medullary bundles, their function, evolution, and diversification dynamics. Additionally, correlated evolution between medullary bundles and successive cambia was tested.Medullary bundles are ancestrally absent in Caryophyllales and evolved in core and noncore families. They are structurally diverse (e.g. number, arrangement, and types of bundles) and functionally active throughout the plant's lifespan, providing increased hydraulic conductivity, especially in herbaceous plants. Acquisition of medullary bundles does not explain diversification rate heterogeneity but is correlated to a higher diversification rate.Disparate developmental pathways were found leading to rampant convergent evolution of CVTP in Caryophyllales. These findings indicate the diversification of medullary bundles and vascular tissues as another central theme for functional and comparative molecular studies in Caryophyllales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monodominant tree communities can have phenotypic trait variation (intraspecific variation) as extreme as the trait variation across a forest with higher species diversity. An example of such forests is those composed of Quercus, an important genus of woody angiosperms in the montane neotropical forest. The Andean oak, or Quercus humboldtii Bonpl., is the sole member of this genus in South America and a characteristic component of montane ecosystems. Although there are several studies on the ecology and genetic structure of this species, there are few studies on the functional trait diversity among populations. Understanding functional traits can improve our comprehension of how organisms respond to various environmental conditions. In this study, we aimed to evaluate differences in six functional traits in individuals of the Andean oak, in two ontogenetic stages (juveniles and adults) from three populations with contrasting environmental conditions. Additionally, using T-statistics, we assessed the impact of external filters (e.g., climate, resource availability, large-scale biotic interactions) on population assembly. We found a remarkable level of functional differentiation among Andean oak forests, with all traits differing between populations and five traits differing between ontogenetic stages. External filters had a stronger influence in populations with more extreme environmental conditions. These findings emphasize the dynamic and context-dependent nature of functional traits in this species. However, given the limited exploration of functional diversity in Andean oak populations, further studies are needed to inform conservation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transcription factor is an essential factor for regulating the responses of plants to external stimuli. The WRKY protein is a superfamily of plant transcription factors involved in response to various stresses (e.g., cold, heat, salt, drought, ions, pathogens, and insects). During angiosperm evolution, the number and function of WRKY transcription factors constantly change. After suffering from long-term environmental battering, plants of different evolutionary statuses ultimately retained different numbers of WRKY family members. The WRKY family of proteins is generally divided into three large categories of angiosperms, owing to their conserved domain and three-dimensional structures. The WRKY transcription factors mediate plant adaptation to various environments via participating in various biological pathways, such as ROS (reactive oxygen species) and hormone signaling pathways, further regulating plant enzyme systems, stomatal closure, and leaf shrinkage physiological responses. This article analyzed the evolution of the WRKY family in angiosperms and its functions in responding to various external environments, especially the function and evolution in Magnoliaceae plants. It helps to gain a deeper understanding of the evolution and functional diversity of the WRKY family and provides theoretical and experimental references for studying the molecular mechanisms of environmental stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT), belonging to the FT/TFL1 gene family, is an important gene regulating the flowering transition and inflorescence architecture during plant development. Given its importance to plant adaptation and crop improvement, FT has been extensively studied in related plant research; however, the specific role and underlying molecular mechanisms of FT in the continuous flowering of perennial plants remains elusive. Here, we isolated and characterized homologous FT genes from two Camellia species with different flowering-period phenotypes: CaFT was isolated from Camellia azalea, a precious species blooming in summer and flowering throughout the year, and CjFT was isolated from C. japonica, which blooms in winter and spring. The major difference in the genes between the two species was an additional five-amino acid repeat sequence in C. japonica. FT showed high expression levels in the leaves in both species from January to August, especially in April for C. japonica and in May for C. azalea. CaFT was expressed throughout the year in C. azalea, whereas CjFT was not expressed from September to December in C. japonica. The expression levels of FT in the floral buds were generally higher than those in the leaves. Overexpression of CaFT and CjFT in Arabidopsis indicated that both genes can activate downstream genes to promote flowering. Transgenic callus tissue was obtained by introducing the two genes into C. azalea through Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. Transcriptome and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analyses indicated that both florigen FT genes promoted the expression of downstream genes such as AP1, FUL, and SEP3, and slightly up-regulated the expression of upstream genes such as CO and GI. The above results indicated that CaFT and CjFT played a role in promoting flowering in both camellia species. The expression pattern of CaFT in leaves suggested that, compared to CjFT, CaFT may be related to the annual flowering of C. azalea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ALOG (Arabidopsis LIGHT-DEPENDENT SHORT HYPOCOTYLS 1 (LSH1) and Oryza G1) proteins are conserved plant-specific Transcription Factors (TFs). They play critical roles in the development ofvarious plant organs (meristems, inflorescences, floral organs, and nodules) from bryophytes to higher flowering plants. Despite the fact that the first members of this family were originally discovered in Arabidopsis, their role in this model plant has remained poorly characterized. Moreover, how these transcriptional regulators work at the molecular level is unknown. Here, we study the redundant function of the ALOG proteins LSH1,3,4 from Arabidopsis. We uncover their role in the repression of bract development and position them within a gene regulatory network controlling this process and involving the floral regulators LEAFY, BLADE-ON-PETIOLE, and PUCHI. Next, using in vitro genome-wide studies, we identified the conserved DNA motif bound by ALOG proteins from evolutionarily distant species (the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha and the flowering plants Arabidopsis, tomato, and rice). Resolution of the crystallographic structure of the ALOG DNA-binding domain in complex with DNA revealed the domain is a four-helix bundle with a disordered NLS and a zinc ribbon insertion between helices 2 and 3. The majority of DNA interactions are mediated by specific contacts made by the third alpha helix and the NLS. Taken together, this work provides the biochemical and structural basis for DNA-binding specificity of an evolutionarily conserved TF family and reveals its role as a key player in Arabidopsis flower development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

YABBY gene family is a plant-specific transcription factor with DNA binding domain involved in various functions i.e. regulation of style, length of flowers, and polarity development of lateral organs in flowering plants. Computational methods were utilized to identify members of the YABBY gene family, with Carrot (Daucus carota) 's genome as a foundational reference. The structure of genes, location of the chromosomes, protein motifs and phylogenetic investigation, syntony and transcriptomic analysis, and miRNA targets were analyzed to unmask the hidden structural and functional characteristics YABBY gene family in Carrots. In the following research, it has been concluded that 11 specific YABBY genes irregularly dispersed on all 9 chromosomes and proteins assembled into five subgroups i.e. AtINO, AtCRC, AtYAB5, AtAFO, and AtYAB2, which were created on the well-known classification of Arabidopsis. The wide ranges of YABBY genes in carrots were dispersed due to segmental duplication, which was detected as prevalent when equated to tandem duplication. Transcriptomic analysis showed that one of the DcYABBY genes was highly expressed during anthocyanin pigmentation in carrot taproots. The cis-regulatory elements (CREs) analysis unveiled elements that particularly respond to light, cell cycle regulation, drought induce ability, ABA hormone, seed, and meristem expression. Furthermore, a relative study among Carrot and Arabidopsis genes of the YABBY family indicated 5 sub-families sharing common characteristics. The comprehensive evaluation of YABBY genes in the genome provides a direction for the cloning and understanding of their functional properties in carrots. Our investigations revealed genome-wide distribution and role of YABBY genes in the carrots with best-fit comparison to Arabidopsis thaliana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orchids are notable for the variety of rewards produced for their pollinators. Nevertheless, many species are rewardless and pollinated by food‐deceptive strategies. This is the case for Cattleya, a Neotropical genus of more than 100 species supposedly pollinated by food‐deception.Here, I studied a member of the clade Sophronitis (Cattleya cernua) in forest areas of southeastern Brazil. The study included analyses of floral morphology, light microscopy of secretory tissues, histochemistry of flower resources, and measurements of nectar volume and concentration. Data on pollinators and mechanisms of pollination were collected in the field by means of film records, while breeding systems were studied using experimental treatments applied to cultivated specimens.The flower traits of Cattleya cernua show strong adaptation to avian pollination. Flowers produce 1–7 μl of a moderately concentrated nectar (17–50%). A secretory tissue at the distal portion of the cuniculus is responsible for nectar secretion. Secreted nectar is stored in the nectar chamber. Pollinaria deposition on the apex of bird beaks allows both short‐ and long‐billed birds to pollinate the flowers. Plants from the studied population were fully self‐compatible but pollinator‐dependent. Pollinator frequency was higher than in food‐deceptive Cattleya.As far as is known, this is the first record of nectar production in Cattleya. The discovery of a reward‐producing species (C. cernua) within a genus entirely pollinated by food‐deception strategies (Cattleya) provides clues and new insights into understanding the diversification of Laeliinae across the Neotropics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We conducted analyses on 253 protein sequences (Pfam00257) derived from 25 woody plant species, including trees, shrubs, and vines. Our goal was to gain insights into their architectural types, biochemical characteristics, and potential involvement in mitigating abiotic stresses, such as drought, cold, or salinity. The investigated protein sequences (253) comprised 221 angiosperms (85 trees/shrubs and 36 vines) and 32 gymnosperms. Our sequence analyses revealed the presence of seven architectural types: Kn, KnS, SKn, YnKn, YnSKn, FSKn, and FnKn. The FSKn type predominated in tree and shrub dehydrins of both gymnosperms and angiosperms, while the YnSKn type was more prevalent in vine dehydrins. The YnSKn and YnKn types were absent in gymnosperms. Gymnosperm dehydrins exhibited a shift towards more negative GRAVY scores and Fold Indexes. Additionally, they demonstrated a higher Lys content and lower His content. By analyzing promoter sequences in the angiosperm species, including trees, shrubs, and vines, we found that these dehydrins are induced by the ABA-dependent and light-responsive pathways. The presence of stress- and hormone-related cis-elements suggests a protective effect against dehydration, cold, or salinity. These findings could serve as a foundation for future studies on woody dehydrins, especially in the context of biotechnological applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study presents the information about the ethnomedicinal plant used by Konda Reddis of Eastern Ghats in Alluri Sitarama Raju district, Andhra Pradesh, explored during 2020-2022. The ethnomedicinal information was gathered through semi-structured interviews and interactive sessions with Konda Reddi ethnic community. The data gathered pertain to 19 ailments, afflicting the local people. The medicinal plants collected were documented with vernacular and scientific name of species arranged under families, orders and clades as per APG IV system. Each species was provided with ethnic uses, plant part/s used, mode of administration and ailment. The taxa enumerated belong to 99 Angiosperm species and one fern from 88 genera and 50 families of vascular plants. They were analyzed for growth-forms and plant-part-wise usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]