Ecology and reproductive biology of Trichilia triacantha Urb. (Meliaceae).

摘要

The endemic, endangered plant Trichilia triacantha Urb. (Meliaceae) consists of 109 individuals in 10 populations. Populations consisting of grouped individuals include from 2-35 plants (mean = 13.4). All individuals occur in the Subtropical Dry Forest Life Zone on well drained soils derived from limestone, at an altitude of 175 m or less. Basal area ranged from 0.71 cm;The principal threats to the species' survival and recovery are habitat loss and low fruit production.;A high level of synchrony in flowering and fruiting was found between individuals and populations. Fruit production was low; of 48 reproductive individuals observed, 27 did not produce fruits. Although studies of other members of the genus have shown the presence of dioecy, no morphological differences were found in the flowers of T. triacantha from the same or different plants. Flowers were more receptive to pollination at night.