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Inbreeding depression in Solanum carolinense (Solanaceae) under field conditions and implications for mating system evolution.

Researchers found that the weed Solanum carolinense can adjust the strength of its self-incompatibility (SI) system. Inbred plants produced fewer ramets than outbred plants, and suffered more herbivore damage. In year one, inbred plants showed 0.63% inbreeding depression (δ), which rose to 0.79% in year two. Outbred plants produced 2.5 times more ramets than inbred ones in year two. Overall, the weed has a total δ of 0.85, meaning it's not fully self-compatible, and its plasticity in the SI system is part of a mixed-mating system that allows self-fertilization when cross-pollination is lacking. This shows the importance of genetic diversity for successful reproduction and survival.

Kariyat RR et al (2011).
PLoS One.
PubMed:
22174810