Pollination of endangered Cuban cycad Microcycas calocoma (Miq.) A.DC.

Abstract

Observations indicate that natural regeneration in the field of the cycad Minogcas calocoma (Miq.) A.DC. is extremely low, and has been so since early this century. It appears that populations of its insect pollinator are practically extinct, but some pollinator activity appears to be present in the largest population of Micmgcas. Recommendations for identification and captive breeding of the pollinator are suggested as a complementary 'conservation strategy to a MinOcycm propagation programme already established at the Cuban National Botanical Garden.