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Plant Science Today (PST)

Research Articles

Vol. 13 No. 3 (2026)

Pseudo-vivipary in graminoids of Kerala: A reproductive adaptation

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.13833
Submitted
29 January 2026
Published
11-09-2026 — Updated on 30-09-2026
Versions

Abstract

Pseudo-vivipary is a vegetative reproductive strategy wherein the development of adventitious buds occurs from the latent meristematic tissue in the vegetative part of the inflorescence. This unusual phenomenon is ecologically significant in graminoids, where species inhabit habitats that are stressed, such as marshy environments and grasslands. During field observations in different ecological regions of Kerala, instances of pseudo-vivipary in 11 monocotyledon species were recorded, providing new insights into this phenomenon. The results show that the occurrence of pseudo-vivipary in Cyperus surinamensis Rottb., Fuirena umbellata Rottb., Schoenoplectiella mucronate (L.) J.Jung & H.K.Choi and Carex filicina Nees. reported here for the first time, constituting the first record of this proliferation phenomenon in this area to the best of our knowledge. In addition, this reproductive plasticity was observed for the first time in the genera Fuirena and Carex. The changing climatic conditions create an adverse habitat for the sedge population. The proposed reasons are the rising water levels in the lower part of the culm, resulting in decay and causing the inflorescence to bend towards the water level and activate plantlet growth. Other reasons include lower water levels, decreased oxygen and eventual stagnation stress. The observations are discussed and colour photographs are provided.

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