Convergent evolution of flowers following independent mating system shifts

Abstract

If we could 'replay the tape of evolution', would the world look the same as it does today? In plants, the transition to self-fertilization has occurred repeatedly throughout evolutionary history, often accompanied by similar changes in flower morphology and function. Collectively known as the "selfing syndrome," these changes provide a unique opportunity to explore the deterministic factors shaping flower evolution. In recent years, we have investigated the similarities between parallel changes in flower morphology and physiology within the Capsella genus. This presentation summarizes our findings, highlighting that a combination of genetic and ecological factors guides the evolutionary outcomes after the transition to self-fertilization in plants.