An experimental study of water dispersal in Polygonum spp.

The annual smartweeds Polygonum lapathifolium L., P. pensylvanicum L., and P. persicaria L. grow on alluvial river bars during the summer and autumn when their substrate is free of flood waters and physical disturbance. They are dependent upon dispersal for the annual recolonization of this habitat. Achenes are the only diaspores (dispersal units), and hydrochory (water dispersal) appears to be a major dispersal method.An experimental study of water dispersal of these species revealed several adaptive features. The coordination of fruit fall with the availability of the agent (flood water) ensures that the achenes are picked up. The duration of buoyancy is adequate for successful transport downstream. The presence and condition of the perianth, degree of water turbulence, and achene size are factors which determine the duration of buoyancy. Alteration of the degree of dormancy but no loss of viability occurs as a result of water transport. After deposition the achenes may remain dormant or germinate rapidly depending on environmental conditions. The deposition stage (and therefore, hydrochory) is unsuccessful for most achenes of P. persicaria, which rapidly lose viability in sites where deposition is likely to occur. The presence of this species on alluvial bars must be due to other means of dispersal.