Status of Miconia calvescens (Melastomataceae), a Dominant Invasive Tree in the Society Islands (French Polynesia)

Abstract

Since its introduction to Tahiti in 1937 as an ornamental, Miconia calvescens DC. (Melastomataceae) has become the most important plant pest in the Society Islands. Its ecological characteristics allow it to thrive and spread in a wide range of habitats, including native forest, where it forms dense monotypic stands. Miconia calvescens now dominates over two-thirds of Tahiti and has spread to the surrounding islands of Moorea and Raiatea. This species represents an immediate threat to the native flora of all the high islands of French Polynesia and a potential danger to many tropical oceanic islands.