DYNAMICS OF A STAND OF SCALESIA-PEDUNCULATA HOOKER FIL, SANTA-CRUZ ISLAND, GALAPAGOS

A seven‐year study of a stand of the endemic Scalesia pedunculata (Asteraceae), which is the dominant tier ill the humid forest on the island oS Santa Cruz, Galápagos, reveals a characteristic pattern of growth and survival. The Scalesia trees initially show a rapid increase in both height and girth. After approximately 34–56 years the trees may reach 7–8 m in height and start producing flowers; the relative increase in girth then becomes more pronounced. The mortality rate is very high during the first 4–5 years, decreasing thereafter as the individuals age. It is suggested that the growth and survival pattern of S. pedunculata is an expression of an adaptive strategy fitted for a pioneer or early‐successional tree. This tree is simultaneously able to persist in the community by the means of a large reproductive effort and a rapid population turnover. The method of seed‐dispersal in the genus discussed in relation to the growth pattern. Copyright © 1979, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved