AEROBIOLOGY OF SYMPLOCARPUS FOETIDUS: INTERACTIONS BETWEEN THE SPATHE AND SPADIX |
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| Authors: | Scott Camazine Karl J Niklas |
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| Institution: | Section of Neurobiology and Behavior and Sections of Plant Biology, and Ecology and Systematics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, 14853 |
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| Abstract: | The aerobiology of the skunk cabbage, Symplocarpus foetidus (l .) Nutt., is examined as a factor contributing to efficient pollination and temperature regulation around the spadix. Field measurements show that the compass orientation of the asymmetrical opening of the spathe is random, while wind tunnel studies reveal that similar patterns of airflow are generated around the spadix regardless of the orientation of the spathe opening to the direction of airflow. Temperature measurements within a model of the inflorescence reveal that airflow around the spathe effectively maintains heat generated by the spadix, even at airflow speeds of 1.5 m/s. These results are discussed as exaptations of the spathe for pollination and for temperature regulation in sub-freezing weather. |
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