| Abstrakt: |
Studies on the host-parasite relationship are intrinsically linked with the nature of parasitic plants. No such records have been recorded for Thonningia sanguinea (Balanophoraceae), a rare, cryptic, obligate holoparasitic plant endemic to tropical Africa. This study reports on its host range and preference in Southern Nigeria. Its presence and current distribution ranges were plotted from reconnaissance surveys conducted across selected forested areas in Southern Nigeria, comprising, national parks, forest reserves, and community-managed forests. To detect specific hosts, soil excavation leading from parasite to host was conducted. The results showed a broad host range with a special preference for native trees and members of the Euphorbiaceae and Urticaceae. Among the common host trees were: Guarea cedrata (Meliaceae), Lophira alata (Ochanaceae), Musanga cecropiodes (Urticaceae), Myrianthus arboreus (Urticaceae), and Ricinodendron heudelotii (Euphorbiaceae). Only Hevea brasiliensis and Theobroma cacao were of exotic origin. Lophira alata was the most susceptible infected host plant with a percentage infestation rate of 28.77, while Musanga cecropiodes had the highest percentage occurrence as host with 31.57%. This finding could have significant implications on the conservation status of the plant, which accounting for current IUCN status is Not Evaluated (NE). In situ conservation is however recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
