Effect of Defoliation on Reproduction of Cordia macrostachya

Abstract

The importance of finding the effect of defoliation on the reproductive capacity of Cordia macrostachya is explained in view of the proposed introduction of two species of leaf-eating beetles from Trinidad into Mauritius for the control of this weed.An account is given of experiments in which the production of inflorescences and fruits was compared in defoliated and control plants.The results show that defoliation has a significant effect in reducing the reproductive capacity of the plant.