Prof. Dr. Florian P. Schiestl ist Leiter des Departments of Systematic and Evolutionary Botany an der Universität Zürich.
Abstract:
Interacting organisms drive plant evolution in various ways, however, we know little about the speed of this process and the traits that are primarily affected. In my group, in the past years, we have used experimental evolution with fast cycling Brassica rapa plants to investigate the effects of different specific pollinators, combinations of pollinators (simulated generalized pollination) as well as combined pollinators and herbivores on plant trait and mating system evolution. In my talk I will present data showing that selection mediated by pollinators drives rapid trait evolution and switches in mating systems from outcrossing to mixed mating. When combinations of pollinators are used, evolutionary changes are not determined by the most effective pollinator, but plants evolve unique trait combinations. Herbivores impact plant evolution mostly through indirect effects on pollinator behavior and lead to rapid increase of selfing. I will further elaborate on how different biotic interactions shape phenotypic selection, and how the context of these interactions determines their fitness outcomes.

After the seminar (ca. 16:00h), everybody is welcome to join us for drinks and munchies in the „coffee corner on the second floor“!