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Ecological implications of the reproductive phenology of Salix martiana Leyb. (Salicaceae) in várzea areas of Central Amazonia

Salix martiana Leyb. is a plant that occupies margins of Whitewater rivers, at levels higher than 23 m above sea level (a.s.l.). In order to verify the influence of precipitation and annual inundation duration on the phenology of the species, three sites between 23 and 27 m a.s.l. were established. At each site, 25 individuals were labeled and observed weekly during 14 months. In order to establish the medium time for fruit formation, three individuals per site had 25 inflorescences labeled, of which 79% showed fruit formation, with 48 fruits formed per inflorescence. Neither inundation nor precipitation influenced phenology, and the production of seeds was continuous throughout the year. Considering the unstable environment the species inhabits, the pattern of seed production may be an important adaptation to increase reproductive success.

floodplain forest; pioneer species; flowering; fruit production


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