Dynamics of the introduced tree Litsea glutinosa (Lauraceae) in Mayotte Island:: Is it an invasive species?

Dynamics of the introduced tree Litsea glutinosa (Lauraceae) in Mayotte Island.. Is it an invasive species? - Litsea glutinosa (Lour.) C.B. Rob, the Indian laurel, is a dioecious tree from Australasia which has been introduced on Mayotte and has proliferated during the era of sugar cane plantations (1841-1880). Efficiently dispersed by the Brown Lemur (Eulemur fulvus) and by numerous birds. this Lauraceae species now spreads into the humid area and it is present in the last remaining "natural" fragmented forests of the island. This tree, ranging from 10 to 15 meters in height, is mostly found on the wetter (rainfall > 1 500 nim/year) northern part of the island. This study analyses the population dynamics of Listea glutinosa between 1996 and 2002 in the remains of the mesophilous and ornbrophilous forests, as well as the importance of vegetative reproduction in certain populations. L. glutinosa proliferates in protected forests, particularly in semi-dry forests where it can take advantage of the more open forest structure. Because of its light-demanding temperament, L. glutinosa needs an opening in the forest canopy to settle down and grow. The tree's invading nature, however, is due partially to its capability to reproduce vegetatively; over half of the stems are produced by vegetative reproduction, mostly root-suckering. This species could lead to a specific loss of biodiversity in "natural" areas, but is not considered as a pest by local inhabitants, because of its frequent utilization, especially as fodder.