Can we bring Madagascar's critically endangered palms back from the brink? Genetics, ecology and conservation of the critically endangered palm Beccariophoenix madagascariensis

Alison Shapcott; M Rakotoarinivo; R J Smith; G Lysakova; M F Fay; J Dransfield

doi:10.1111/j.1095-8339.2007.00676.x

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Can we bring Madagascar's critically endangered palms back from the brink? Genetics, ecology and conservation of the critically endangered palm Beccariophoenix madagascariensis

Alison Shapcott, M Rakotoarinivo, R J Smith, G Lysakova, M F Fay and J Dransfield

Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, Vol.154(4), pp.589-608

2007

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1095-8339.2007.00676.x

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Abstract

fragmentation

frugivores

fire management

gene flow

inbreeding

species recovery

sustainable harvesting

Madagascar has a highly distinctive flora and is one of the world biodiversity hot spots. There are more than 170 species of palms, the majority of which are vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered endemics. Palms are utilized for many human uses, many of which lead to plant death or seed harvesting. Combined with reduced populations resulting from extensive forest clearing, those species which are harvested from the wild are under additional threat of extinction. Species recovery programmes have the potential to save some of the most iconic species before it is too late. This study documented the current known populations of the critically endangered palm Beccariophoenix madagascariensis, a species utilized for both local and international purposes. The study specifically investigated the genetic diversity and inbreeding within populations and the potential differentiation between populations and with the newly described species B. alfredii. We found that despite critically small population sizes there was considerable genetic diversity within populations. We also found that ecologically and or geographically distinct populations were genetically distinct. Populations within 3 km of each other exhibited considerable gene flow, probably owing to seed dispersal. The populations were inbred but reproductive viability had been maintained. Conservation and recovery options are discussed.

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Title: Can we bring Madagascar's critically endangered palms back from the brink? Genetics, ecology and conservation of the critically endangered palm Beccariophoenix madagascariensis
Authors: Alison Shapcott (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Science, Health and Education
M Rakotoarinivo (Author) - Royal Botanic Gardens Kew
R J Smith (Author) - Royal Botanic Gardens Kew
G Lysakova (Author) - Royal Botanic Gardens Kew
M F Fay (Author) - Royal Botanic Gardens Kew
J Dransfield (Author) - Royal Botanic Gardens Kew
Publication details: Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, Vol.154(4), pp.589-608
Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell Publishing Ltd.
Date published: 2007
DOI: 10.1111/j.1095-8339.2007.00676.x
ISSN: 0024-4074
Organisation Unit: School of Science and Engineering - Legacy; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Science, Technology and Engineering; Centre for Bioinnovation
Language: English
Record Identifier: 99448765102621
Output Type: Journal article

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Collaboration types: International collaboration
Web Of Science research areas: Plant Sciences