Phenology of Australian acacias in the S.W. Gape, South Africa, and its implications for management |
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Authors: | SUZANNE J MILTON EUGENE J MOLL |
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Institution: | Bolus Herbarium, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7700, South Africa;Department of Botany, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7700, South Africa |
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Abstract: | Australian acacias introduced to the Cape about 145 years ago are replacing indigenous vegetation over extensive lowland areas. This paper describes their growth, litter-fall, reproductive and nectar secretion phenology. Results indicate that growth and litter-fall are seasonal events, but timing varies with species and site. However, reproductive phenology is characteristic of a species, and varies little with time and place. Nectar secretion appears to be associated with both growth and flowering. Comments are made on the use of these phenological data in distribution mapping, control and utilization. |
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Keywords: | Acacia extra floral nectary growth phenology reproduction woody weed |
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