Reproductive ecology and pollination biology of Geum triflorum (prairie smoke)
Abstract
Understanding plant reproductive strategies is important for interpreting population dynamics and species resilience. We investigated the mating system, pollen limitation, and pollinator interactions of Geum triflorum (prairie smoke), a subalpine wildflower. Experiments took place at the Rokcky Mountain Biological Laboratory in Gothic, CO. Using a randomized block design, we applied five pollination treatments: hand outcross, open outcross, hand self, autogamy, and control. We measured seed set, floral traits, and pollinator identity and activity in 26 naturally occurring G. triflorum rosettes. However, due to severe drought stress, widespread herbivory, and issues with pollinator exclusion bags, only three flowers produced seeds across all treatments. This precluded statistical analysis of reproductive success. Despite these limitations, results suggest G. triflorum does not reproduce via autonomous self-pollination and may be capable of some amount of self-fertilization via geitonogamy. Natural pollination was observed, though seed production was minimal. These findings, coupled with low visitation rates and reduced reproductive output in dry years support the hypothesis that G. triflorum may be pollinator-dependent. Future research should explore drought effects on reproduction more directly and use improved methods to reduce herbivory and bag failure.
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