Allelopathic effect of leaves and pseudofruits of Hovenia dulcis Thunb. on seed germination and seedling development of Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi

Abstract

Studies evaluating the allelopathic effect of invasive tree species on native species are scarce. The tree species Hovenia dulcis Thunb. (Rhamnaceae) is native to East Asia and invasive in forest ecosystems in South America. The allelopathic potential of Hovenia dulcis was verified using aqueous extracts prepared from leaves and pseudofruits in concentrations of 2.5%, 5% and 10% in comparison with a control solution (distilled water) on seed germination and seedling development of the native tree Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi (Anacardiaceae). The results revealed that the aqueous extracts had no effect on seed germination or seedling survival. However, there was a reduction in stem diameter and dry weight of the aerial part, as well as in length and dry weight of the underground part of S. terebinthifolius seedlings, suggesting that allelopathy may represent an important mechanism in the process of invasion by H. dulcis.