Intraspecific variation and ecology of a highly restricted paleoendemic (Witsenia maura) in the south-western Cape

Witsenia is a monospecific genus of the putatively basal group, the woody Iridaceae. This upright iris has extremely long black and yellow flowers ( see fig. 1) that are thought to have been pollinated by an extinct Sunbird. The role of the unusual black floral colouration is investigated as this colour is seldom associated with bird pollination. This plant typically exists in discreet and restricted populations in wet habitats in the South Western Cape (South Africa). The restricted nature of the plant is peculiar as it occurs in either low or high altitudes, yet appears to be extremely sensitive to altitude. Popular belief suggests that Witsenia maura occurs in the Peninsula only, and results from this study show the Peninsula population to be genetically separate from other populations, reflecting a long term separation. Samples from nine populations are sequenced to investigate haplotypic variation within the species, and dispersal of ancestral populations. This thesis investigates the current knowledge of Witsenia, its ecology, history and distribution. An examination of flowers under UV light reveals the first evidence of UV nectar guides in an ornithophilous flower. Conservation issues are also addressed, and it is established that although small and apparently shrinking due to global warming, populations are nonetheless viable if managed properly. A molecular study of the species and examinination of its variation revealed exceptional haplotype diversity. This diversity can best be explained by swamps acting as refugia during interglacial periods.

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

Department of Biological Sciences

Year dc:date.issued

2003

Author dc:creator

• Gwynne-Evans, David

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Hedderson, Terry A

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/11427/23935

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:open.uct.ac.za:11427/23935