A guide to collecting samples for flower and fruit developmental studies

Ecological Solutions and Evidence, vol. 6

Abstract

Abstract Developmental studies of flowers and fruits provide important data for evolutionary studies of flowering plants. Collecting the right samples is therefore crucial. For appropriate sampling, we distinguish between early, mid and late developmental stages, followed by anthesis, fruit developmental stages and fruit maturity. Sampling is preferably carried out in the field, but botanical gardens are also very important for sampling, always taking into account local regulations and legislation. Herbaria and alcohol collections in natural history institutions can also be consulted for material or stages that are difficult to obtain. Practical implications. We provide a list of equipment and materials required for collecting and storing, including details of fixatives. Finally, we also include some useful tips on how to collect the relevant samples for developmental and comparative morphological studies.

Authors 2

1. Julius Jeiter corresponding

   Technische Universität Dresden

   Affiliation as printed

   Chair of Botany, Faculty of Biology TUD Dresden University of Technology Dresden Germany

2. ERIK F. SMETS corresponding Aachen Institute of Biology Leiden Leiden University Leiden the Netherlands Naturalis Biodiversity Center Leiden The Netherlands

   Leiden University · Naturalis Biodiversity Center

   Affiliation as printed

   Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity Conservation Heverlee Belgium

   Institute of Biology Leiden Leiden University Leiden The Netherlands

   Naturalis Biodiversity Center Leiden The Netherlands