Facteurs biologiques et structuraux de l’invasion de la liane Merremia peltata dans les habitats forestiers de Mayotte

Abstract

Biological and structural factors of the invading vine Merremia peltata in forested habitats in Mayotte. — Lianas are hyperdynamic elements of tropical vegetation that strongly react to changes in forest structure. In Mayotte (Western Indian Ocean), the indigenous vine Merremia peltata (Convolvulaceae) greatly expanded its range in recent decades and sometimes causes the collapse of the forest canopy. Surveys were conducted in 52 4 m-radius plots arranged in Voundzé forest and Bénara Monts Departmental Forest, along an ecological gradient of invasion of M. peltata from free to very strongly invaded areas. The propagation modes of the liana, the vertical structure of forest stands, but also topographic parameters, were identified and quantified. No plantlet resulting from germination was observed. The creeping stems, present in high density (1.9 stems / m) were systematically layered in the ground. A set of 37 native plant species have been recorded as supports, the most common one being Grisollea myrianthea. From the primary host, which has an average diameter of 6.0 ± 4.9 cm at 1.30 m above ground, the creeper joins another support remote of a mean distance of 97 cm. The index of colonization and the index of forest structure which were used, which sum the rate of vegetation cover at different heights, were negatively correlated (n = 52, Pearson coefficient r = -0.319, P < 0.05). Natural forests, which show a complex vertical structure, were actually less colonized than secondary forests, which have a poorer vertical structure. The negative correlation between the same index of colonization and altitude (n = 35, Pearson coefficient r = -0.439, P < 0.05) is interpreted as a relationship confused with the previous, as natural forests are located at altitude unlike secondary forests. The colonization of forest ecosystems by M. peltata is facilitated by a high aptitude for vegetative propagation, coupled with higher propensity of secondary forests to be colonized by lianas. Uncertainty remains about the future of the sites where this vine has led to the collapse of forest stands. However, only new ecosystems mixing indigenous and alien species, are expected to emerge.