英文摘要 |
In India, Rhizophora hybrids have been recorded in Pichavaram (Tamil Nadu) and in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (ANI). Rhizophora hybrids in Pichavaram mangrove forest were identified as Rhizophora × annamalayana, a cross between R. apiculata and R. mucronata, whereas Rhizophora hybrids in the ANI were identified as Rhizophora× lamarckii, a cross between R. apiculata and R. stylosa. However taxonomical distinction between them was not much explored. A recent floristic survey revealed the occurrence both R. × annamalayana and R. × lamarckii in the ANI, India. Based on critical analysis of specimens and morphometric analysis, it was found that both R. × lamarckii and R. × annamalayana can be distinguished from R. apiculata by their smooth green bract and bracteoles and 2-4 flowered inflorescences within the leaf axils. Rhizophora × annamalayana is distinguished from R. × lamarckii by its broader leaves (length: width ratio <1.8 vs >1.8), and shorter style (<1.5 mm vs. > 1.5 mm) and stamens in two whorls vs. usually in a single whorl. Rhizophora × annamalayana is the new record from the ANI. Higher relative density of R. × annamalayana than R. × lamarckii in the ANI is attributed to the abundance of its parental species (R. apiculata and R. mucronata) in the ANI |