Distribution, population status, associations, and biotic challenges of Sanjappa cynometroides, an endemic legume tree (Leguminosae: Caesalpinioideae) in the southern Western Ghats, Kerala, India
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.9819.18.8.29483-29492Keywords:
Cauliflory, epicormic branching, fabaceae, new populations, phenology, plant-animal interactions, restricted seedling establishment, riparian, threats, vegetative propagationAbstract
Sanjappa cynometroides (Bedd.) E.R.Souza & Krishnaraj, an unique species indigenous to the lush environs of the southern Western Ghats, India, epitomises the intricate interplay between flora, fauna, and conservation challenges. This tree was earlier categorized as Critically Endangered; however, no updated status is available. Extensive field surveys resulted in locating two new populations in Kathipara and Kambimood parts of the southern Western Ghats, Kerala and these population consist of about 20 and 70 mature trees respectively. The Kambimood population is distinct with epicormic branching, cauliflory, and stem galls. This study also offers a meticulous examination of its associations with other taxa, like epiphyllous lichens, such as Racoplaca subtilissima Fée, Byssoloma chlorinum (Vain) Zahlbr, Tricharia vainioi R. Sant; Corticolous lichens, Hemithecium sp., and Trichothelium sp.; leafy liverwort, Cololejeunea lanciloba Steph.; Corticolous bryophytes including Meteoriopsis squarrosa (Hook. ex Harv.) M.Fleisch and Actinodontium rhaphidostegum (Müll.Hal.) Bosch & Sande Lac.; a snail belonging to the Beddomea genus; and a preying mantis Indomenella indica Ghate & Mukherjee. In addition to restricted seedling regeneration in their natural habitat, they also suffer from leaf infestations caused by whiteflies, flower bud infestations by mealybugs & aphids, and fruit & seed predation by Bonnet Macaques. Moreover, the downward-growing branches of the tree touch the soil and subsequently form roots, facilitating vegetative propagation; even fallen trees do the same. This natural vegetative propagation is observed in the wild as a survival strategy in their natural habitat.
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