Floral biology and pollination of Merremia dissecta var. edentada (Meisn.) O’Donnell (Convolvulaceae) in an urban fragment of Atlantic Forest, Bahia

Abstract

Since they occur in disturbed habitats, weeds and invasive plant species should have interesting reproductive strategies and, therefore, studies of their reproductive biology are important for their management and control. Here, aspects of the floral biology and reproductive system of Merremia dissecta var. edentada are analyzed in an Atlantic Forest urban fragment in the Brazilian state of Bahia. Merremia dissecta var. edentada is an herbaceous vine with mellitophilous flowers, with continuous flowering and fructification. Its white flowers are ephemeral, presenting diurnal anthesis and offering pollen and nectar as floral resources. The species is self-compatible and was mainly visited by bees, with Trigona spp. being their potential pollinators. The species presents reproductive traits similar to plant species that commonly occur in disturbed habitats with altered faunas of flower visitors.