Reproductive Phenology and Seed Germination in Eight Tree Species From a Seasonally Dry Tropical Forest of Morelos, Mexico: Implications for Community-Oriented Restoration and Conservation

Abstract

With the aim of providing information for ecological restoration programs, we studied reproductive phenology and seed germination of eight species from the tropical dry forest of Morelos, Mexico. With the participation of students from the local junior high school, we monitored monthly, over one year, the production of flowers and immature and mature fruits for each species. We estimated intensity, duration, seasonality, and synchrony for each fruiting phenophase and flowering duration. Germination tests were undertaken in a germination chamber (18 C-32 C) and under the environmental conditions at the local school. We applied specific pregermination treatments for each species. Two distinct peaks of mature fruit production were identified: one at the beginning and the other in the middle of the dry season. Fructification seasonality was significant in most cases. Germination was relatively high in three legumes and particularly low in two Bursera species. Four species responded to the germination environments, and differences among pregermination treatments were significant in most cases. Knowledge on fruiting patterns and seed viability and germination will allow adequate decision-making for seed collection and plant propagation of the study species. Student participation increased their interest and knowledge on local environmental problems and solutions.

Adaptation to seasonal drought in two closely related species of Neotropical Costus (Costaceae)

“…Habitat differentiation between C. allenii and C. villosissimus is the major isolating mechanism between these species (Chen, ). There is a growing literature regarding the role of drought resistance in tropical rain forest community ecology and conservation (e.g., Engelbrecht et al., ; Feeley et al, ; Núñez‐Cruz, Meave & Bonfil, ), but its role in species divergence has rarely been studied. One exception is the comparison between drought‐avoiding Piper trigonum and drought‐tolerating P. cordulatum , with the prior species having higher hydraulic conductance (Engelbrecht, Velez, & Tyree, ).…”

Seed abundance affects seed removal of an alien and a native tree in the Brazilian savanna: Implications for biotic resistance

“…Seeds from L. leucocephala have a high and fast germination rate (Núñez‐Cruz et al . 2018) which may increase the chance of escaping seed predation, allowing early colonisation even in areas of low seed density. Once established, these individuals may start to reproduce and reinforce propagule pressure in the surrounding area.…”

How to Save Endangered Magnolias? From Population Biology to Conservation Action: The Case of Allopatric Radiation in Western Mexico

“…and Guazuma ulmifolia Lam. [54,55], a possible strategy to reduce competition among potential seed dispersers of Magnolia including birds, rodents and lizards. The intensity of fruiting is concentrated in rainy seasons [53].…”