Selection on Seedling Emergence Timing and Size in an Annual Plant (common sunflower, Helianthus annuus (Asteraceae))

Abstract

• Premise: Variation in seedling emergence timing is considered adaptive over the long term in wild populations, but early emergence can result in a fitness advantage. To explore the adaptive significance of seedling emergence timing, it should be studied under realistic conditions and in the context of other traits that influence fitness.

• Methods: In a common garden, we monitored maternal families from seed to flowering (including over winter) with intra- and interspecific competition. We assessed the effects of emergence timing and plant size on survival to anthesis in different genetic backgrounds and under varying competition.

• Key Results: We found genetic variation for emergence (probability and timing), size, and survival to anthesis. We also found negative selection, both phenotypic and genetic, on emergence time, such that early emergers (day 8) had almost twice as great a predicted probability of surviving as later emergers (day 28). Size had strong positive effects on survival and, furthermore, the beneficial effects of early emergence may be mediated through size. Maternal family and competitive environment can also affect selection on emergence timing.

• Conclusions: Our results indicate that early emergence is related to greater survival in wild sunflower, although there may be little direct selection on this trait; rather, its importance may be mediated by its effects on highly adaptive traits associated with size. Also, the effects of early emergence may vary across genetic backgrounds and competitive conditions, facilitating the maintenance of variation for this trait across a diverse landscape.