Cauliflory in the Canopy

 Cauliflory in the Canopy

Cullenia exarillata is an evergreen tree, the fruit of which forms a major part of the Lion-tailed macaque's diet in these forests. The tree displays cauliflory, which means they flower and fruit on the main trunk or woody branches. This characteristic is prevalent in evergreen species, helping the trees attract mammalian pollinators and seed dispersers. Animals including Lion-tailed macaques, Travancore flying squirrels, Asian palm civets and various species of fruit bats act as seed dispersers and pollinators. Even though the tree suffers a loss of reproductive material (flowers, fruits) through consumption by these animals, the reproductive benefits far outweigh the costs. As we were examining various things on the forest floor, one of us picked up a fallen culenia fruit for a closer look and on it something very strange was present. Some whitish finger like projections that almost looked like the burnt wicks of a candle. We were told they are fungus called the dead man’s finger and what an apt name that was!