Coastal wetlands play an important role in the protection of biodiversity by acting as protective barriers against natural disturbances. Annona glabra (L.) commonly known as pond apple, is one of the species found in coastal wetlands in Puerto Rico. Punta Tuna Wetland Nature Reserve in Maunabo is one of the most conserved forests in the eastern part of the island. However, low germination and recruitment of A. glabra seedlings has been observed in this locality. Is unknown which abiotic or biotic factors are associated with the density, growth and survival of this specie that could be responsible for the absence of seedlings and juveniles. To investigate the factors that could be inhibiting the establishment of the seedlings, 14 quadrats were established to measure the amount of light (lux) and soil parameters such as pH, relative humidity (%), temperature (⁰C), and salinity (milliohms/cm2). We count the number of seedlings and follow the survival, growth (cm) and the number of leaves in time.
Results/Conclusions
Preliminary data shows no relation between abiotic factors and seedlings density, survival and growth (r<0.04, p>0.05). Furthermore, we found that 86% of seedling died, and the surviving ones showed a reduction on height and number of leaves of 25.2% and 19.6% respectively. It is imperative to determine what factors are limiting the density, survival and growth of A. glabra to ensure the permanence of this specie in the locality and provide recommendations for restoration projects with a better potential of establishment.