Developmental patterns of the invasive bramble (Rubus alceifolius Poiret, Rosaceae) in Reunion island: an architectural and morphometric analysis.

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to identify the developmental stages of Rubus alceifolius and to determine one or more characteristic morphological markers for each stage. The developmental reconstitution method used involved a detailed description of many individuals throughout the different stages of growth, from germination to the development of an adult shoot capable of fruiting. Results revealed that R. alceifolius passes through five developmental stages that can be distinguished by changes in several morphological markers such as internode length and diameter, pith diameter and plant shape. This analysis indicated that R. alceifolius has a heteroblastic developmental pattern, midway between that of a bush and a liana. Moreover, results showed that this species taps environmental resources

SUBMITTER: Baret S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4240351 | biostudies-literature | 2003 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature