GERMINATION OF AN INVADING TREE SPECIES (MYRICA-FAYA) IN HAWAII

Myrica faya (Myricaceae), is rapidly invading disturbed areas of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Germination of seeds was >80% at 10 wk declining to 30% after 78 wk of dry storage. Mesocarp removal and endocarp scarification slightly increased germination at 15 wk but not at 92 wk; more seeds per fruit and passage through birds had no effect. Leaf litter from M. faya trees and the native Metrosideros polymorpha trees reduced germination. Germination was highest at intermediate shade. Bird dispersal away from dense forest stands to disturbed areas with intermediate light levels thus increases the changes of germination for this species. -from Author