Patterns of resource allocation in a dioecious species

Patterns of resource allocation in a dioecious species

Resource allocation between vegetative and reproductive growth will vary over time, and dioecious species may also adopt different strategies for allocation between male and female plants. Sanchez Vilas and Pannell show that males and females of the annual Mercurialis annua differ in temporal patterns of resource allocation to roots, shoots and reproduction. These differences are likely to be the consequence of the different demands for resources required for producing pollen versus seeds at different times.