Practical Pollination Biology

This book aims to provide practitioners of pollination biology with a broadly based source of methodologies as well as the basic conceptual background to aid in understanding. The first 3 chapters are mostly botanical. Chapter 1 deals with floral form, function and phenology. Chapter 2 explains the components of plant breeding systems as well as the reproductive and genetic consequences of interactions with pollinators. Chapter 3 focuses on the biology of pollen and stigmata and their interactions. The next 2 chapters bring the zoological aspects of pollination and concern floral advertisements. Floral shape, size, colour, colouration and scent are described in chapter 4 in relation to flower visitors' sensory capacities. Chapter 5 focuses on floral rewards, pollen, nectar and oils, gums, and resins, which are discussed in relation to flower visitors' use of floral resources. Chapter 6 and 7 take on the plant-pollinator interface. Chapter 6 addresses pollinator behaviour, effectiveness and efficiency, pollen transport, and issues of pollinator constancy. Chapter 7 tackles the problems of conservation in pollination, introducing collecting, surveying and monitoring methods and their application. Pollination by wind and water are presented in chapter 8, which also includes approaches to the problem of mixed abiotic and biotic pollination (ambophily). Finally, in chapter 9, the finer points and importance of micrometeorology for pollination are explored. This book is intended for students and researchers who are actively involved in pollination research. It provides a single, comprehensive compendium of methods (protocols) and background information that will be useful as a first line of reference in the laboratory and in the field.