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<p>Contrary to stabilising coexisting mechanisms, which predict an advantage for locally rare species, we found conflicting evidence in an endangered tropical tree species. <i>Hydnocarpus longipedunculatus</i> is a Western Ghats endemic with only two populations and fewer than 100 adults. To assess whether the reproductive performance is linked to small population size, we studied the species’ phenology and reproductive biology in its natural habitat. The study covered phenology, flower onset, pollen viability, longevity, germination, pollen-ovule ratio, pollination, fruit development, and biotic interactions. We found irregular flowering, pest-induced flower damage, low fruit set, premature fruit fall, seed predation, and poor natural regeneration due to fleshy seed coat. These factors likely contribute to the species’ low population size and restricted distribution. The insights from this study will help to develop conservation strategies to enhance survival and regeneration of the species.</p>

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The extent of biotic interactions in the reproductive biology of a threatened endemic tree of Southern Western Ghats, India

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2025年12月11日

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  • Subin Kunnath,
  • Jose Antony Panikulangara

摘要

Contrary to stabilising coexisting mechanisms, which predict an advantage for locally rare species, we found conflicting evidence in an endangered tropical tree species. Hydnocarpus longipedunculatus is a Western Ghats endemic with only two populations and fewer than 100 adults. To assess whether the reproductive performance is linked to small population size, we studied the species’ phenology and reproductive biology in its natural habitat. The study covered phenology, flower onset, pollen viability, longevity, germination, pollen-ovule ratio, pollination, fruit development, and biotic interactions. We found irregular flowering, pest-induced flower damage, low fruit set, premature fruit fall, seed predation, and poor natural regeneration due to fleshy seed coat. These factors likely contribute to the species’ low population size and restricted distribution. The insights from this study will help to develop conservation strategies to enhance survival and regeneration of the species.