Probable transcription factor involved in the development of floral organs. Required for normal development of lodicules and stamens (whorls 2 and 3). May function as a heterodimer with MADS4. May interact with the K-box of MADS4, MADS6 and MADS8. May form a heterodimer with MADS4. Expressed in lodicules, stamens and carpels. Inhibition of MADS16 expression by RNAi reduces expression of MADS4, and transforms lodicules and stamens into palea/lemma-like and carpel-like organs, respectively.