Morphological studies of the Nymphaeaceae. VII. The floral biology of Nuphar Lutea subsp. macrophylla

Abstract

The floral biology of Nuphar lutea subsp. macrophylla, native to Central Texas, has been investigated. The flowers are protogynous with anthesis occurring over a period of several days. Flowers are visited by a number of insects but are effectively pollinated by the beetle Donacia piscatrix Lac., which spends its entire life history in association with Nuphar. Evidence is assembled which suggests that the overall floral structure together with the sequence of floral development and the timing of sepal movements (i.e., the opening and closure of the flower) are primary adaptations to assure beetle pollination. © 1977 The New York Botanical Garden.