441 Mark Jefferson
Science Complex
Ypsilanti, Michigan 48197
734.487.4242
Professor
Biology; Environmental Science and Society (ENVI) Interdisciplinary Program
401H Science Complex
My research focuses primarily in the reproductive biology of plants (pollination biology, mating systems, clonal reproduction) and on the effects of reproductive biology on genetic diversity and population processes. One project has included studies of the reproductive biology and genetic diversity in the threatened species Iris lacustris (Dwarf Lake Iris) and its sister species Iris cristata (Dwarf Crested Iris). Students and I have found that I. lacustris has very little genetic diversity, whereas the widespread I. cristata is highly variable. Both species have similar reproductive systems, so explanations of low genetic diversity in I. lacustris rely on historical effects (evolutionary and biogeographic processes). Another project concerned changes in male vs female reproductive allocation in flowers of an annual poppy (Platystemon californicus) at different developmental stages of the plants in response to environmental factors. Patterns of allocation of resources to sexual vs. asexual reproduction and growth in Starflower (Trientalis borealis) is a more recent project. Previous studies have included comparative pollination biology of co-occurring taxa of Caulophyllum (Berberidaceae) and responses of Valeriana ciliata to early spring burning. I continue to provide taxonomic treatments of the genus Eriodictyon (Yerba Santa) and the poppy family (Papaveraceae) for the Flora of North America and The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California.