Vivipary, a rare phenomenon in Afrotropical Melastomataceae: first report in Amphiblemma ciliatum (Sonerileae)

Abstract

Background and aims – Within angiosperms, vivipary has been reported in less than 0.1% of all species. We herein report the first occurrence of vivipary in an Afrotropical Melastomataceae and discuss its phylogenetic position, habit, habitat, and fruit attributes. Material and methods – Observational data were gathered from a field expedition to Gabon, and from herbarium specimens from BR, BRLU, P, and WAG. A phylogeny was generated to map all the eight species exhibiting vivipary in Melastomataceae. Key results – Amphiblemma ciliatum is currently the only known melastome species in the Afrotropics exhibiting vivipary. It is likely that its angular capsules depend on rainwater for seed dispersal. Conclusion – The combination of a herbaceous habit and angular fruits with the occurrence on shaded humid tropical rainforest floor during periods of incessant rainfall and high humidity might be responsible for vivipary in most Melastomataceae.