Re: What is a Species (was Re: Iris setosa)
- To: Multiple recipients of list <i*@rt66.com>
- Subject: Re: What is a Species (was Re: Iris setosa)
- From: E* <E*@aol.com>
- Date: Thu, 18 Dec 1997 20:34:07 -0700 (MST)
In a message dated 97-12-18 17:56:53 EST, you write:
<< What are the criteria that plant taxonomists use to determine what is a
species? There seems to be a major grey area in certain wild populations in
determining what are species and what are naturally occuring hybrids. I
guess that's what makes taxonomy fun.
Kay Cangemi
cangemi@ulster.net
New York, USDA zon >>
I don't know beans about taxonomy but I think a species is determined by
measuring the pollen. Then there is some further theory that a plant with
plentiful viable pollen can sustain itself as opposed to a plant that cannot
produce seed easily.
Someone may comment further here. I recall reading an article on this subject
and there are definite measurements of pollen in relation to the establishing
of what is a hybrid.
Claire Peplowski
East Nassau, NY
zone 4 - Berkshire area (where there is no pollen around now)
