Evaluating seed banking capacity and propagation potential of endangered Sierra Bermeja grasses: Aristida chaseae and Aristida portoricensis
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Issue Date
2018Journal title
Caribbean NaturalistVolume
Special Issue No. 2Begin page
76End page
89
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Show full item recordAbstract
Of the 2329 plant species that are native to Puerto Rico, 188 are grasses (Poaceae) and nearly 20% of those are critically imperiled. To address gaps in knowledge of US endangered Aristida chaseae (Chase’s Threeawn) and Aristida portoricensis (Pelos del Diablo) from Sierra Bermeja in southwestern Puerto Rico, we conducted experiments to determine viability of seeds produced in the wild, germination requirements, and ability to be stored under cold, dry conditions.Description
Summary note (J. Maschinski): Because tropical species rarely experience freezing temperatures in their natural habitats, it is important to test seed desiccation and freezing tolerance to determine long-term storage possibilities. We tested seeds of two endangered Puerto Rican grasses Chase’s threeawn and Pelos del Diablo, and found that few fully viable seeds are produced in wild, but seeds of both species are capable of traditional storage at freezing temperatures at least short term. Key to germinating the seeds is drying seeds and allowing ample time (months) to germinate. We recommend testing seeds after years in storage to verify their longevity over time. Once germinated, both species can grow well under nursery conditions.Type
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