Regeneration of the Mauna Kea silversword Argyroxiphium sandwicense (Asteraceae) in Hawaii

Author:

Walker, Lawrence R., Powell, Elizabeth Ann

Title:

Regeneration of the Mauna Kea silversword Argyroxiphium sandwicense (Asteraceae) in Hawaii

Periodical:

Biological Conservation

Year:

1999

Volume:

89

Pages:

61-70

Subject:

Silverswords Mauna Kea Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp.sandwicense Ahinahina Germination Microhabitats Restoration ecology Silverswords

Summary:

The Mauna Kea silversword, (Argyroxiphium sandwicense), is a federally-listed endangered plant that is endemic to the high elevation cinder deserts of Mauna Kea on the Island of Hawaii. Since it is rare, monocarpic, and primarily self-incompatible, this plant is of particular interest to conservation biologists, evolutionists, and ecologists. As a result, restoration efforts have increased the total naturally-occurring population of 50 adult plants within a square meter to 500 individuals within a square meter. This was done primarily by the outplanting of silverswords that would be grown, initially, under controlled conditions. During this experiment, the direct sowing of seeds into field sites was evaluated as an alternative to outplanting during which time the gravel-covered surfaces enhanced germination and growth of seedlings and increased soil moisture. While the presence of shrubs and trees was associated with the increased silversword germination it, was also associated with a decreased silversword growth and reproduction. Therefore, it was found that the best environment for silverswords varied throughout the life cycle of the plant, but the critical stages are pollination, seed production, germination, and seedling survival. However, it was also found that sowing and outplanting each have unique advantages. It was also found that moist and gravel surfaces in high elevation areas that can be protected from ungulate browsing, should be the focus of future sowing and outplanting efforts as a way in which to maximize restoration success.

Label:

Silverswords

URL:

http://cletus.uhh.hawaii.edu:2074/10.1016/S0006-3207(98)00132-3

Date:

July 1999

Collection:

Periodicals