Insect pollination and self-planting seed dispersal strategy in the true viviparous mangrove tree species Ceriops tagal (Perr.) C.B. Robinson (Rhizophoraceae)

Abstract

Ceriops tagal is a seaward and high salt-tolerant specialist mangrove species. It flowers during the winter season. The flowers have an explosive pollen release mechanism and are adapted for tripping by flies and honey bees. The tripped flowers achieve self or cross-pollination. High winds can also trip flowers, but this only contributes to autogamy. The plant is viviparous; most propagules fall off and settle near the mother plant. We have observed that such propagules do not show healthy growth, hence the establishment of successive offspring in the same habitat is doubtful. These results suggest that C. tagal requires introduction of propagules from other mangrove forests to promote gene flow and maintain sufficient genetic diversity for the successful establishment and expansion of populations.