Pollen Evolution in the Genus Echinops (Cardueae, Asteraceae): Deciphering the Origin of Giant Pollen Grains

Premise of research. The genus Echinops is unique among the Cardueae tribe of Asteraceae for presenting two distinctive features, both related to reproductive structures: a syncephalium (=secondary capitulum) and an impressively large pollen grain with a triangular section and probably the thickest of all plant cell walls. While the syncephalium constitutes a synapomorphy for the genus, recent evidence suggests that some Echinops species have pollen similar to that of other Cardueae. This study therefore seeks to contribute insights into the spatiotemporal frame of pollen evolution within the genus. Methodology. Micromorphological characterization was provided for 35 specimens from 28 Echinops species using light and scanning electron microscopy. Pollen counts were carried out for two Echinops species and Cardopatium corymbosum. Pollen data are discussed in the context of a dated Echinops phylogeny. For comparison purposes, new and published pollen data of 622 Cardueae species and 303 taxa of Vernonieae, another tribe where syncephaly has evolved, were collated. Pivotal results. The “Perennial” Echinops pollen type of huge size and triangular section likely derived from the “Annual” Echinops pollen type, more similar in shape, size, and exine structure to that of other Cardueae. Pollen type transition took place in the genus long after syncephaly evolved. Pollen size increase did not occur at the expense of pollen quantity and could respond to warmer environmental conditions and increased male competition. Conclusions. This study of Echinops pollen evidenced the evolutionary exploration of novel phenotypic space in the genus, most certainly in response to the climatic context in which the species have diversified.