A model for the role of surfactants in the assembly of exine sculpture

The surface coatings of spores and pollen often show complex species or genus specific patterning and for which there is no obvious explanation in terms of evolutionary advantage. It has previously been suggested that these patterns are the product of a self-assembly process used by plants in spore and pollen wall development and are a consequence of the physical and chemical behaviour of the components and their interactions. Experiments have shown that comparable patterning and structure can be achieved by self-assembly of analogous components but the range of patterning obtainable was restricted. The introduction of specific surfactants into the reaction has now broadened the range of patterns that can be derived by this method and supports the view that surfactants must be important in the development of the naturally occurring patterns.