Mendoza determined the effects of light, heavy or severe simulated herbivory on understory palms (Astrocaryum mexicanum) at different growth stages. Plant response to defoliation varied by plant age, defoliation intensity, and age of plant material removed. Completely defoliated juvenile and immature plants produced significantly fewer leaves than control plants. In mature plams, the removal of the oldest portions of the crown increased leaf production by 30%. Complete defoliation and the removal of two-thirds of the oldest leaves had the effect of reducing leaf abscission in all stages, except for seedlings. Completely defoliated plants had a lower probability of reproduction and produced no fruits for three years. Defoliations greater than 33% of the total number of leaves reduced the reproductive capacity of palms, except when the oldest tissue was removed. These results suggest that herbivory can alter the age distribution and reproductive ability of A. mexicanum stands in the Mexican rainforest.
Citations and enhanced abstracts for journals articles and documents focused on rangeland ecology and management. RSIS is a collaboration between Montana State University, University of Idaho, and University of Wyoming.