Abstract
Mimosa naguirei (Leguminosae) is parasitized by Pilostyles ingae (Rafflesiaceae) in the Serra do Cipó, in southeastern Brazil. The study examined the influence of this parasite on various parameters of M. naguirei in an attempt to establish general patterns for future research. It was found that the percentage of parasitized plants varied along an altitudinal gradient of 500 m. The parasitic plant influenced the architecture of the host plant. The number of branches on parasitized plants was significantly greater than the number of branches on non-parasitized plants. Branches of parasitized plants were significantly shorter than branches on non-parasitized plants. The density of P. ingae flowers decreased from the stem base to apex. The number of fruits produced by parasitized plants was not greater than the number of fruits produced by non-parasitized plants, although parasitized plants produced smaller fruits and lighter seeds. Seed germination did not differ significantly between parasitized and healthy plants.
Paper version not known (
Free)
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call