An evolutionary scenario for the origin of flowers

Nat Rev Genet. 2003 Jul;4(7):559-66. doi: 10.1038/nrg1114.

Abstract

The Mostly Male theory is the first to use evidence from gene phylogenies, genetics, modern plant morphology and fossils to explain the evolutionary origin of flowers. It proposes that flower organization derives more from the male structures of ancestral gymnosperms than from female structures. The theory arose from a hypothesis-based study. Such studies are the most likely to generate testable evolutionary scenarios, which should be the ultimate goal of evo-devo.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cycadopsida / classification
  • Cycadopsida / genetics*
  • Evolution, Molecular
  • Flowers / classification
  • Flowers / genetics*
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
  • Genome, Plant*
  • Models, Genetic
  • Phenotype
  • Phylogeny*