Long-term Persistence of Raphia taedigera Mart. Swamps in Nicaragua 1

Abstract

The palm Raphia taedigera Mart, forms vast, monodominant swamps in Central and South America, but very little is known about the ecology and natural history of these ecosystems. Debate surrounds the issue whether R. taedigera swamps are early successional stages or mature “climax” communities. This paleoecological analysis of a 1.46-m sediment core from swamps on the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua establishes the abundant presence of R. taedigera swamps for at least 2800 ± 90 years. R. taedigera swamps must be considered persistent communities, warranting further study because of their great extension into Central and South America.