A preliminary synthesis of pollination biology in the Cape flora

Abstract

This preliminary synthesis was designed to promote an understanding of pollination as a process in the Cape flora by summarizing the literature, outlining patterns and processes, and identifying gaps in knowledge. Various aspects of pollination biology are covered. Chapters reviewing plant breeding systems, insect, bird, mammal and wind pollination, and gene flow are introduced by a perspective on the role of the fossil record in pollination biology. A speculative chapter on the constraints affecting pollination syndromes is followed by the implications which pollination biology may have on management. A key worded bibliography presents the local literature. Research themes considered by the various authors as critical to our understanding of pollination biology in the Cape flora are also outlined. A short synopsis of research currently underway completes the synthesis.