The taxonomic classification of the southern hemisphere plant family Proteaceae, distributed in Australia, South Africa, and South America, is based largely upon morphological features of the flowers and fruits. About 67 genera and 1450 species are currently recognized. To test the classification of these plants with new data, Dr. Sylvia Feuer of DePaul University is investigating the pollen structure and sculpturing of representative samples using light- and electron-microscopy. Fine details of the pollen wall surface and wall layering are being analyzed with cryosections and with transmission electron microscopy, to obtain information useful in determining equivalent features for comparison among pollen from different genera. Patterns of pollen wall structure and sculpture are expected to be similar among closely related groups of taxa, and to exhibit recognizable trends of evolutionary change. Differences among pollen grains of this family that are being described by Dr. Feuer will also allow determination of the correct taxonomic association of dispersed fossil pollens. Grains thought to be from Proteaceae occur in deposits in the northern hemisphere, far outside the current geographic range of the family. Accurate determination of their taxonomic status is prerequisite to resolution of the historical biogeography of these plants and to further analysis of climatic and other controls on plant distribution.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Environmental Biology (DEB)
Type
Standard Grant (Standard)
Application #
9006877
Program Officer
James E. Rodman
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1990-08-01
Budget End
1992-07-31
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1990
Total Cost
$60,000
Indirect Cost
Name
Depaul University
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Chicago
State
IL
Country
United States
Zip Code
60604