There goes the neighborhood: Reproductive success of Bletia patula when Spathoglottis plicata moves in

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Date
2009-11Author
Recart, Wilnelia
Cuevas, Ana A.
Ackerman, James D.
Flores-Saldaña, Nadia P.
Zambrana-Torrelio, Carlos M.
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Show full item recordAbstract
Naturalized exotic species are homogenizing the earth’s biota and are
increasing densities of pests in newly colonized areas. When exotics
change ecosystems and affect native species, then they are invasive. Do
high density populations of Spathoglottis plicata (a naturalized orchid)
affect populations of Bletia patula (a native orchid) through a common
florivorous, orchid specialist weevil, Stethobaris polita. We will determine
the effect of S. plicata on the reproductive success of B. patula when S.
plicata is present at variable densities. In addition, we will determine the
florivory preference of weevils between S. plicata and B. patula. Finally,
we will create a distribution model map for both orchid species, to predict
the localities where both species may be interacting.