Underground bulbils in Sonerila (Melastomataceae): innovative
reproductive strategies in three paleotropical species
- Resmi S
, - Karthigeyan Kaliyamurthy,
- Nico Cellinese,
- SANTHOSH NAMPY
![](https://d197for5662m48.cloudfront.net/assets/icons/omniauth/orcid-ca37582cd91a671ed5cec57770e0e96c01b4b79b8b5b75d8598fc1ddac18c974.svg)
Abstract
This study elucidates the poorly known phenomenon of bulbil formation
observed in three species of Sonerila viz., Sonerila tenella, S.
ponmudiana and S. nairii. These bulbils represent clusters of 5 to 20
fleshy scales, developing adventitiously from roots or lower stem nodes,
connected by a common stalk or premature stem, and predominantly
occurring during early winter when plants are in fruiting or late
flowering stages. Initially, these scales are white or vinaceous, but
later turn into green, ciliate structures resembling leaves. The bulbils
undergo rapid growth into independent plantlets, typically within a few
weeks, with clusters up to 10 cm from the parent individual. While
commonly associated with vivipary, Sonerila bulbils differ by their
developmental origin and lack of connection to reproductive structures.
Instead, their occurrence may contribute significantly to short-distance
dispersal and population persistence in fragmented habitats. This study
generates hypotheses on the ecological significance of dispersal
mechanisms in response to environmental heterogeneity, highlighting the
unique adaptive features of Sonerila bulbil formation within the broader
context of plant reproductive strategies.Submitted to Nordic Journal of Botany Submission Checks Completed
Assigned to Editor
Reviewer(s) Assigned
04 Jul 2024Reviewer(s) Assigned