New record and potential distribution of an exotic ornamental palm (Roystonea oleracea) in Ecuador

Abstract

The Roystonea oleracea palm, a native of the Caribbean, has been introduced in some tropical countries as an ornamental plant and it invades the wetlands of Brazil, Guyana and Panama. In this study we report the presence of R. oleracea in the coastal region of Ecuador where it is widely cultivated as an ornamental. Using a satellite image, we estimated the abundance and coverage of this species at Isla Santay, a Ramsar wetland. We also made a potential distribution model of R. oleracea in Ecuador, using BIOCLIM. At Isla Santay, this species has been naturalized and covers about 43 hectares. The potential distribution model shows that, in addition to Isla Santay, there are five other Ramsar wetlands on the coast of Ecuador that are susceptible climatically to establishment of R. oleracea. Due to the invasive potential of this species in wetlands we recommend that its use as an ornamental plant be prohibited in areas near wetlands in Ecuador. Studies must be carried out to monitor naturalization and ecological impacts of R. oleracea in Ecuadorian wetlands in order to establish management priorities and contribute to the conservation of these important ecosystems.

Key words: Arecaceae; potential distribution; introduced species; Ramsar wetlands; plant invasion