which open on the tree. Each seed is surrounded by silky,
cottony fibers called kapok (hence the names Kapok and
Silk- cotton Tree). These fibers aid in wind- dispersing
the seeds. Kapok fibers are commercially valuable as
stuffing for mattresses, upholstery, and life preservers.
Since the tree lacks leaves when it flowers, wind can
more efficiently blow the seeds away from the parent.
Seeds can remain dormant for a substantial period,
germinating when exposed to high light. Large gaps are
ideal for Kapok, and the tree is considered successional,
though it may persist for many years once established in
the canopy.
Kapok leaves are extensively parasitized and grazed by
insects. Leaf drop may serve not only to advertise the
flowers and aid in wind- dispersing the seeds but may
also help periodically rid the tree of its insect burden.
Conclusion
The daily lives of plants, ranging from newly sprouted
seedlings to mature trees, are subject to many vagaries,
all of which combine to make tropical forests the
complex, indeed dynamic mosaics that they are.
Stochastic factors strongly influence whether or not
a seedling will ever reach adulthood. The luck of the
draw is nature’s way. Both biotic and abiotic hazards
influence the likely success or failure of a seedling
to endure in a site and to attain adulthood. A newly
sprouted seed faces many obstacles before reaching full
maturity as a canopy resident— but some make it. From
small gaps to large forest disturbances, the dynamics
of tropical forests continually raise new questions and
new challenges for the tropical ecologist (plate 7- 27).Plate 7- 27. Succession put to use. Look carefully, as this is actually a “living fence.” Cuttings of rapidly growing, sun- demanding
trees of various species are planted in rows, and the trees grow into pasture fences. This practice is common in many parts of the
Neotropics. Photo by John Kricher.
112 chapter 7