Role of light in the life stages of mt. makiling populations of alocasia zebrina, An endangered philippine plant species1

Issue Date

12-2013

Abstract

Populations of Alocasia zebrina growing in a secondary forest on Mt. Makiling were studied to determine the influences of sunlight on its life stage development. The study site was dominated by Swietenia macrophylla in association with some members of Palm family. Large canopy gaps were present that allowed ground penetration of high light intensity. The life stages of Alocasia zebrina were identified to be, namely seed, juvenile, adult vegetative and adult sexually mature, based mainly on the number of mature leaves and reproductive capability. Statistical analyses showed a positive correlation between the number of mature leaves and the increase of total monthly minutes of sunshine. Furthermore, the field data analysis suggested that light plays a major role in determining not only where A. zebrina population will be established, but also the rate at which an individual can complete an entire life cycle.

Source or Periodical Title

Philippine Journal of Science

ISSN

0031-7683

Volume

142

Issue

Special Issue

Page

69-82

Document Type

Article

Physical Description

illustrations, tables, graphs, diagram

Language

English

Subject

Alocasia zebrina, Araceae, Endangered Philippine plant species, Life stages, Light intensity, Vegetation

Digital Copy

yes

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