# Some Aspects of the Forest Edges of Martinique and Evaluation of the Potential of Herbaceous Rubiaceae in These Environments

Jean-Philippe Claude

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Jean-Philippe Claude. Some Aspects of the Forest Edges of Martinique and Evaluation of the Potential of Herbaceous Rubiaceae in These Environments. Natural Resources Forum, 2025, 16 (13), pp.371-399. 10.4236/nr.2025.1613019. hal-05437609

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# Some Aspects of the Forest Edges of Martinique and Evaluation of the Potential of Herbaceous Rubiaceae in These Environments

Jean-Philippe Claude*

UMR ESPACE DEV-BIORECA Laboratory, University of Antilles, Scholcher, France

Email: claudejeanphilippe1@gmail.com

**How to cite this paper:** Claude, J.-P. (2025) Some Aspects of the Forest Edges of Martinique and Evaluation of the Potential of Herbaceous Rubiaceae in These Environments. *Natural Resources, 16*, 371-399.
https://doi.org/10.4236/nr.2025.1613019

Received: January 13, 2025

Accepted: December 26, 2025

Published: December 29, 2025

Copyright © 2025 by author(s) and Scientific Research Publishing Inc. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution International License (CC BY 4.0).

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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Open Access

## Abstract

The flora of the Lesser Antilles archipelago located in the Caribbean, presents a remarkable diversity of species belonging to the Rubiaceae family, with a representation of all possible forms of life. More than twenty are herbaceous plants present in the archipelago (three of which are endemic) and about fifteen in Martinique. Although several species are rather rare, others are described as ruderal, arval or ubiquitous, colonizing different types of environments. We therefore undertook to explore the ecology of herbaceous Rubiaceae of the forest edges of the island of Martinique, following a protocol distinct from that used for woody species. The results reveal that it is possible to find Rubiaceae, whatever the type of forest edge and the type of bioclimate. However, if some herbaceous Rubiaceae thrive there, probably attracting various pollinators, ensuring their ecological success, the majority of them remain rare. Yet the study shows that these forest edges support a diverse biodiversity, playing a role as transitional habitats by offering unique conditions that neither dense forests nor other open spaces provide.

## Keywords

Rubiaceae, Forest Edges, Ecology, Martinique

## 1. Introduction

There are over 14,000 species and approximately 580 recognized genera of the Rubiaceae family worldwide, making it the fourth largest family of flowering plants with a primarily pantropical distribution [1]. In the Caribbean, the flora of the Lesser Antilles archipelago is composed of a remarkable diversity of Rubiaceae [2]-[5]. Rubiaceae form the fifth largest plant family in the archipelago with 129
species recorded, including 89 on the island of Martinique [2]-[5]. This mountainous island occupying a central position in the archipelago, hosts all forms of life in this family (trees, shrubs, bushes, lianas, herbaceous plants, epiphytes and aquatic plants) and these species occupy a very wide range of habitats [2]-[10].

Combining the censuses of the American botanist Richard Alden Howard and the French botanist Jacques Fournet, 20.2% of Rubiaceae in the Lesser Antilles are herbaceous (i.e. 26 species divided into 10 genera), and in Martinique, 15.7% are herbaceous (i.e. 14 species divided into 6 genera) (Appendix 1) [2] [3]. Their flowering can be annual, seasonal (rainy season) or regular but absent in the event of a long drought [2] [3]. Although several species are rather rare, others are described as ruderal, arval or ubiquitous, adapted to disturbed, open or cultivated environments [2] [3] [8]. They colonize forest edges, fields, ruins and even roadsides [2]-[4] [8]. Given their ability to colonize diverse and often disturbed habitats, we hypothesize that herbaceous Rubiaceae have a specific distribution and diversity influenced by variations in ecological conditions, for example, at forest edges, particularly in terms of light availability and humidity. This study aims to answer the following question: to what extent do ecological gradients present at forest edges modulate the floristic composition and spatial distribution of herbaceous Rubiaceae in Martinique? We therefore undertook to explore the ecology of herbaceous Rubiaceae in forest edges on the island of Martinique.

## 2. Materials and Methods

### 2.1. Study Area

Martinique, a mountainous and volcanic island in the Lesser Antilles archipelago (Figure 1), is the result of subduction between the North American and Caribbean plates, a phenomenon that gives rise to its unique topography marked by massifs in the north, hills in the south and a diversity of soil types [11]-[14].

<figure><img src="image_3.png" /><figcaption>Figure 1. Location of Martinique in the Lesser Antilles archipelago, Caribbean.</figcaption></figure>

This topographic and pedological diversity, influenced by orographic precipitation and altitudinal climatic variations, generates various bioclimates ranging
from dry to hyper humid and various forests such as xerophilous forests at low altitude, mesophilous forests at medium altitude to submontane and montane rainforests [15]-[20].

Martinique, with its diversity of soils, reliefs, hydrography and vegetation, as well as a strong varied anthropization, offers a great heterogeneity of habitats favorable to herbaceous Rubiaceae, which disperse mainly by barochory and zoochory [4] [17] [21] [22]. Forest edges for example, transitional zones between forest and open environments, constitute habitats rich in biodiversity, in particular for pollinators, throughout the year [23]-[25]. These edges constitute ecological corridors that facilitate biological exchanges in a fragmented landscape, offering an ideal habitat for herbaceous Rubiaceae [23]-[25]. Despite its modest surface area (1128 km²), Martinique is home to a diversity of species from the Rubiaceae family, contributing to the biodiversity of the archipelago, a component of the Caribbean hotspot recognized worldwide [4] [5] [26]-[28]. Around 89 species of the family are present on the island, including 14 herbaceous species divided into 6 genera, but the majority of them remain rare (Appendix 1, Figure 2), [2]-[5]. The identification of these plants is possible with the help of floras and reference works containing in particular illustrations facilitating their determination [2] [3] [8].

<figure><img src="image_4.png" /><figcaption>**Figure 2.** Abundance of herbaceous Rubiaceae [2] [3].</figcaption></figure>

## 2.2. Methods

The data were collected exclusively by non-exhaustive floristic surveys, carried out in 2020 with the help of a few members of the Association of Martinican Botanists (Figure 3). This study uses an approach aimed at analyzing the main trends, as well as the interactions between plant species within largely herbaceous communities [23] [29]-[32]. Thus, walking on the hiking trails, in various bioclimates, 29 surveys were carried out targeting the Rubiaceae encountered in the forest edges of the island (Appendix 2). One of the main difficulties was then to identify as many species of the family as possible in these very dense edges, during our only passages on each of the hiking trails. Indeed, regardless of the bioclimate, these edges proved to be extremely dense, composed largely of herbaceous plants but including other physiognomic types (shrubs, lianas, liana shrubs, etc.) and therefore constituting multiple populations of very varied surfaces.
<figure><img src="image_5.png" /><figcaption>**Figure 3.** Location of surveys.</figcaption></figure>

Wanting to inventory and obtain a representative sample of this diversity of populations was almost impossible. We therefore chose to arbitrarily select a reference surface corresponding to the square meter. This standard methodology consisted of placing wooden sample squares of 1 meter on each side, on non-con niguous surfaces where Rubiaceae were identified (Figure 4 and Figure 5).

<figure><img src="image_6.png" /><figcaption>**Figure 4.** Cross-Sectional diagram illustrating the structure of the forest edges traversed.</figcaption></figure>
<figure><img src="image_7.png" /><figcaption>**Figure 5.** Some photos to illustrate the different types of forest edges traveled and sample squares made of 1 m × 1 m. (1. Cap Macré, 2. Morne Aca, 3. Fond Baron, 4. Trace des Jésuites).</figcaption></figure>

The objective of the sample squares was to provide an overview of the number of Rubiaceae, their abundances and densities per square meter, and the types of populations to which they can contribute. For each sample square, a set of ecological and floristic descriptors were systematically noted, such as the name of the species, their number of individuals, their height, their physiognomic type as well as their phenological state (flowering and fruiting periods). For lianas or seedlings (less than 10 cm), we simply noted their abundance when their identification was possible (+ very low (number 1 to 5); ++ low (number 5 to 15); +++ average (number 15 to 30); +++++ high (number 30 to 45); ++++++ very high abundance (number 45 to 100 and more)). Furthermore, based on the GPS points of the surveys and the QGIS software version 3.36, the biotopes were characterized (**Appendix 2**). The average annual minimum and maximum temperatures, the average annual precipitation were noted using climatic data from Météo-France (French meteorological organization). The slope gradient and altitude were recovered using altimetric data from the IGN (National Geographic Institute, BDALTI 25 meters) and the soil types of the surrounding forests using pedological data from the IRD (Research Institute for Development, soil map of the Antilles at 1/20,000). The
level of sunshine received on the ground was noted on site, according to two simple variables (medium (50% sunshine) or high (100% sunshine)). The data obtained were then entered into Excel software and ecological indices and indicators were used for the treatment of Rubiaceae or stations [2] [4] [15] [17] [29]-[31] [33].

We distinguish:

* Species richness (number of species identified);

* Abundance (number of individuals per species);

* Frequency (presence of a Rubiaceae in a specific number of sample squares);

* Density (ratio between the number of individuals of a species and the area of the surveys), calculated according to the following equation:

$$D = n/a. \qquad (1)$$

where “D” is the density, “n” is the number of individuals of a species, “a” is the area of the sample square.

* The distribution index (distribution of Rubiaceae within the surveys, expressed by the product between the frequency and the density per species), calculated according to the following equation:

$$Id = F \times D. \qquad (2)$$

where “Id” is the distribution index, “F” is the frequency and “D” the density.

* Simpson's diversity index (floristic diversity and numerical dominance of one or more species), calculated according to the following equation:

$$\lambda = \sum_{i=1}^{S} [n_i/N]^2 \qquad (3)$$

where “λ” is the Simpson index, “S” is the total number of species, “n_i” is the number of individuals of a species and “N” is the total number of individuals. The index is close to 0 when the specific diversity is high, no species dominates numerically; and close to 1 when the diversity is low and one species dominates numerically. Finally, multivariate statistical processing was carried out using XLSTAT software in order to characterize of our surveys [29] [34] [35].

# 3. Results

## 3.1. Characteristics of the Surveys Carried Out

The surveys were carried out on various sites, covering bioclimates ranging from dry subhumid to hyperhumid (Figure 3, Appendix 2 and Appendix 3). The sample squares are distributed in habitats corresponding to the edges of xerophilous, xero-mesophilous (transition zone), meso-hygrophilous (transition zone) and hygrophilous forests (Table 1). The altitudes range from 1 to 635 meters, and the slopes are gentle to moderate (Appendix 2). The hiking trails are more or less wide and of a diverse nature, ranging from secondary roads to stone and earth paths. However, the soils of the surrounding forests are mainly composed of vertisols (rarely marine alluvium) in dry subhumid bioclimates, and of red or brown montmorillonitic soils in more humid bioclimates (Appendix 2). Most of the sur-
veys are located in semi-shaded areas, with sunlight on the ground limited by the canopy cover of the surrounding trees (Appendix 2). In total, the 29 surveys cover an area of 29 m². Approximately 2276 specimens were recorded, of very diverse physiognomic types, belonging to 96 species, divided into 79 genera and from 40 different families (Appendix 3).

Two species are invasive according to the DEAL (Directorate of the Environment, Planning and Housing in Martinique): *Clerodendron paniculatum* and *Dichrostachys cinerea* [36]. We find mostly herbaceous species but also lianas, ferns, or even seedlings or young individuals of future shrubs, trees and bushes. Among these specimens, 228 belong to 7 species, divided into 5 genera of the Rubiaceae family (Appendix 3).

<table><caption>**Table 1.** Summary table of floristic surveys carried out between August and October 2020 (Appendix 2 and Appendix 3).</caption><thead><tr><th>Bioclimate</th><th>Dry subhumid</th><th>Ecotone (transition between dry subhumid and humid subhumid)</th><th>Ecotone (transition between humid and humid subhumid)</th><th>Hyper humid</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Forest edge</td><td>Xerophilous</td><td>Xero-mesophilous</td><td>Meso-hygrophilous</td><td>Hygrophilous</td></tr><tr><td>Number of sample squares</td><td>8</td><td>6</td><td>6</td><td>9</td></tr><tr><td>Total area (square meter)</td><td>8</td><td>6</td><td>6</td><td>9</td></tr><tr><td>Minimum area (square meter)</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td></tr><tr><td>Number of families (all physiognomic types included)</td><td>21</td><td>14</td><td>16</td><td>18</td></tr><tr><td>Number of genera (all physiognomic types included)</td><td>40</td><td>18</td><td>20</td><td>27</td></tr><tr><td>Number of species (all physiognomic types included)</td><td>47</td><td>19</td><td>20</td><td>31</td></tr><tr><td>Number of individuals (all species included, excluding seedlings, lianas and ferns)</td><td>599</td><td>164</td><td>561</td><td>952</td></tr><tr><td>Physiognomic types encountered</td><td>tree, shrub, herbaceous, liana.</td><td>tree, shrub, bush, herbaceous, liana.</td><td>tree, shrub, herbaceous, fern.</td><td>shrub, herbaceous, fern.</td></tr><tr><td>Number of genera of the Rubiaceae family (all physiognomic types included)</td><td>3</td><td>3</td><td>2</td><td>2</td></tr><tr><td>Number of species of the Rubiaceae family (all physiognomic types included)</td><td>3</td><td>3</td><td>2</td><td>3</td></tr></tbody></table>
Continued

<table><tr><td>Number of individuals of the Rubiaceae family (all species included)</td><td>96</td><td>20</td><td>25</td><td>87</td></tr><tr><td>Location of place name</td><td>Morne Aca and Cap Macré</td><td>Pointe Rouge to Pointe à Bibi hiking trail</td><td>Fond Baron</td><td>Plateau Boucher and Trace des Jésuites</td></tr><tr><td>Municipality</td><td>Marin</td><td>Trinité</td><td>Fort-de-France</td><td>Fonds-Saint-Denis and Morne Rouge</td></tr></table>

### 3.1.1. Forest Edges of Xerophilous Forests: Cap Macré

The species recorded in the sample squares of Cap Macré, present diversified physiognomic types. The flowering of some species, which is conducive to attracting pollinators, indicates an active reproductive capacity (Table 2). The overall low density and abundance of species suggest a relatively stable environment, favourable to ruderal plants able to adapt to water stress and high light. In at least three surveys, the Simpson index approaches 1, reflecting a marked abundance of several species. Only one shrub and two herbaceous plants of the Rubiaceae family are recorded, of which only *Diodia ocymifolia* (herbaceous) stands out for its particularly high abundance and density.

<table><caption>Table 2. Contents of the sample squares made at Cap Macré in Marin.</caption><thead><tr><th rowspan="2">No.</th><th rowspan="2">Species</th><th rowspan="2">Ph</th><th colspan="3">Square 1 (S1)</th><th colspan="3">Square 2 (S2)</th><th colspan="3">Square 3 (S3)</th><th colspan="3">Square 4 (S4)</th></tr><tr><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td></td><td>Simpson index</td><td></td><td colspan="3">0.43867036</td><td colspan="3">0.28125</td><td colspan="3">0.33742198</td><td colspan="3">0.44636678</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Abrus precatorius</td><td>L</td><td>5+</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>1+</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>1+</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Capraria biflora</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>40</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Cenchrus echinatus</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>60</td><td>3</td><td>0.0003</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Citharexylum spinosum</td><td>T</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>15</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Croton bixoides</td><td>Sh</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>20</td><td>3</td><td>0.0003</td><td></td><td>50</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Cuscuta americana</td><td>L</td><td>1+</td><td></td><td>Y</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>Desmodium incanum</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>20</td><td>50</td><td>0.005</td><td>Y</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Desmodium sp</td><td>He</td><td>10+</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>Dichrostachys cinerea</td><td>Sh</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>50</td><td>3</td><td>0.0003</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>Diodia ocymifolia</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>30</td><td>80</td><td>0.0080</td><td>Y</td><td>20</td><td>10</td><td>0.0010</td><td>Yes</td></tr><tr><td>11</td><td>Eleocharis flavescens</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>10</td><td>10</td><td>0.0010</td><td>Y</td><td>10</td><td>5</td><td>0.0005</td><td>Yes</td></tr><tr><td>12</td><td>Enicostema verticillatum</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>20</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>13</td><td>Eugenia cordata</td><td>Sh</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>20</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>14</td><td>Guettarda odorata</td><td>Sh</td><td>70</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>15</td><td>Haematoxylum campechianum</td><td>T</td><td>80</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table>
Continued

<table><tbody><tr><td>16</td><td>Heliotropium ternatum</td><td>He</td><td>90</td><td>5</td><td>0.0005</td><td>Y</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>17</td><td>Ipomoea setifera</td><td>L</td><td></td><td>5+</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>18</td><td>Leptochloa filiformis</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>60 2 0.0002</td><td>Y</td></tr><tr><td>19</td><td>Leucaena leucocephala</td><td>T</td><td>40</td><td>30</td><td>0.0030</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>20</td><td>Pithecellobium unguis-cati</td><td>T</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>160 8 0.0008</td></tr><tr><td>21</td><td>Sida rhombifolia</td><td>He</td><td>10</td><td>55</td><td>0.0055</td><td></td><td>60 1 0.0001</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>22</td><td>Sida sp</td><td>He</td><td>10</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>23</td><td>Spermacoce verticillata</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>20 1 0.0001</td><td>Y</td></tr><tr><td>24</td><td>Spigelia anthelmia</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>10 5 0.0005</td><td>Y Y</td></tr><tr><td>25</td><td>Sporobolus jacquemontii</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>80 15 0.0015</td><td>Y</td></tr><tr><td>26</td><td>Tabebuia heterophylla</td><td>T</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>20 14 0.0014</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>27</td><td>Tragia volubilis</td><td>L</td><td></td><td>2+</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>28</td><td>Vernonia cinerea</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>30 30 0.0030</td><td>Y Y</td></tr></tbody></table>

Legend. S: Survey/Ph: Physiognomic type in maximum morphogenetic development (T: Tree; Sh: Shrub; He: herbaceous; L: liana)/H: Height in cm/A: Abundance/D: Density (cm²)/Fl: Flowers (Y: yes)/F: Fruits (Y: yes).

### 3.1.2. Forest Edges of Xerophilous Forests: Morne Aca

The surveys of Morne Aca, also in a xerophilous zone, also present a diversity of physiognomic types (Table 3).

<table><caption>Table 3. Contents of the sample squares made at Morne Aca in Marin.</caption><thead><tr><th rowspan="2">No.</th><th rowspan="2">Species</th><th rowspan="2">Ph</th><th colspan="4">Square 1 (S5)</th><th colspan="4">Square 2 (S6)</th><th colspan="4">Square 3 (S7)</th><th colspan="4">Square 4 (S8)</th></tr><tr><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>1</td><td>Bidens sp</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Bursera simaruba</td><td>T</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Cenchrus echinatus</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Centrosema virginianum</td><td>L</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Chamaecrista glandulosa<br>var schwarzii</td><td>B</td><td>80</td><td>16</td><td>0.0016</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Chamaecrista nictitans</td><td>B</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>Chamaecrista obcordata</td><td>B</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Chamaesyce hirta</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>Desmodium heterocarpum</td><td>He</td><td>20</td><td>18</td><td>0.0018</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>Desmodium incanum</td><td>He</td><td>30</td><td>5</td><td>0.0005</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>11</td><td>Eriochloa polystachya</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>12</td><td>Leucaena leucocephala</td><td>T</td><td>110</td><td>30</td><td>0.0030</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>13</td><td>Lonchocarpus punctatus</td><td>T</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>14</td><td>Ocimum gratissimum</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table>
Continued

<table><tr><td>15</td><td>Oxalis barrelieri</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td>20</td><td>6</td><td>0.0006</td><td>Y</td><td>10</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td>Y</td><td>15</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td>Y</td></tr><tr><td>16</td><td>Paspalum conjugatum</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>50</td><td>3</td><td>0.0003</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>17</td><td>Sida acuta</td><td>He</td><td>30</td><td>14</td><td>0.0014</td><td>Y</td><td>Y</td><td>10</td><td>10</td><td>0.0010</td><td>Y</td><td>50</td><td>7</td><td>0.0007</td><td>Y</td><td>20</td><td>10</td><td>0.0010</td><td>Y</td><td>Y</td></tr><tr><td>18</td><td>Spermacoce verticillata</td><td>He</td><td>40</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td>Y</td><td>20</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td>20</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td>Y</td><td>10</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td>Y</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>19</td><td>Spigelia anthelmia</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>10</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>20</td><td>Sporobolus jacquemontii</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>70</td><td>5</td><td>0.0005</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>21</td><td>Stachytarpheta jamaicensis</td><td>He</td><td>40</td><td>11</td><td>0.0011</td><td>Y</td><td>20</td><td>8</td><td>0.0008</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>20</td><td>12</td><td>0.0012</td><td>Y</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>22</td><td>Stachytarpheta sp</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>20</td><td>4</td><td>0.0004</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>23</td><td>Synedrella nodiflora</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>15</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>20</td><td>5</td><td>0.0005</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>24</td><td>Urena lobata</td><td>B</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>20</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>25</td><td>Urvillea ulmacea</td><td>L</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>1+</td><td></td></tr></table>

Legend. S: Survey/Ph: Physiognomic type in maximum morphogenetic development (T: Tree; B: Bush; He: herbaceous; L: liana)/H: Height in cm/A: Abundance/D: Density (cm²)/Fl: Flowers (Y: yes)/F: Fruits (Y: yes).

The abundance of flowering plants indicates an environment favorable to eco-logical interactions, such as pollination, despite the water stress conditions. The abundance of these species is low but the low values of the Simpson index confirm the presence of a diversity of species in the sample squares.

None of them dominate numerically and the densities are therefore very low, which also characterizes these environments as relatively stable for ruderal plants. We also note the presence of a single Rubiaceae, *Spermacoce verticillata*, with a single individual and therefore a low density in all the sample squares.

### 3.1.3. Xero-Mesophilic Forest Edges (Ecotone): Pointe Rouge to Pointe À Bibi Hiking Trail

In these surveys of xero-mesophilic edges, we observe a transition towards a slightly more humid environment, with a very marked presence of trees such as *Cassipourea guianensis*, *Garcinia humilis* and *Pisonia fragans* (Table 4 and Table 5).

<table><caption>**Table 4.** Contents of the first three sample squares made on the trail from Pointe Rouge to Pointe à Bibi, in Trinité.</caption><thead><tr><th rowspan="2">No.</th><th rowspan="2">Species</th><th rowspan="2">Ph</th><th colspan="5">Square 1 (S9)</th><th colspan="5">Square 2 (S10)</th><th colspan="5">Square 3 (S11)</th></tr><tr><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>1</td><td>Cassipourea guianensis</td><td>T</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Cordia collococca</td><td>T</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Erythroxylum havanense</td><td>Sh</td><td>20</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td></td><td></td><td>40</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Eugenia monticola</td><td>B</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>15</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Garcinia humilis</td><td>T</td><td>20</td><td>11</td><td>0.0011</td><td></td><td></td><td>50</td><td>8</td><td>0.0008</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Geophila repens</td><td>He</td><td></td><td>3+</td><td></td><td></td><td>Y</td><td>Y</td><td>3+</td><td></td><td></td><td>Y</td><td></td><td>3+</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table>
Continued

<table><tr><td>7</td><td>Macfadyena unguis-cati</td><td>L</td><td>1+</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Paullinia cururu</td><td>L</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>1+</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>Pisonia fragans</td><td>T</td><td>15</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td></td><td>30</td><td>15</td><td>0.0015</td><td></td><td>20</td><td>20</td><td>0.0020</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>Securidaca diversifolia</td><td>L</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>1+</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>11</td><td>Spondias mombin</td><td>T</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>10</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td></td><td>10</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td></td></tr></table>

Legend. S: Survey/Ph: Physiognomic type in maximum morphogenetic development (T: Tree; Sh: Shrub; B: Bush; He: herbaceous; L: liana)/H: Height in cm/A: Abundance/D: Density (cm²)/Fl: Flowers (Y: yes)/F: Fruits (Y: yes).

We note the presence of numerous lianas, shrubs and small trees. The few herbaceous plants present are mainly Rubiaceae, often in flower, indicating a good adaptation to the conditions of the ecotone. The diversity of physiognomic types shows an ecological complexity favorable to pollination and seed dispersal. These plant compositions are however characterized by a low diversity of species as shown by the high values of the Simpson index in the majority of sample squares. Floristic diversity is often low and species also have low abundances and densities, probably linked to a response to the very moderate humidity and light conditions of these sites.

<table><caption>**Table 5.** Contents of the last three sample squares made on the trail from Pointe Rouge to Pointe à Bibi, in Trinité.</caption><thead><tr><th rowspan="2">No.</th><th rowspan="2">Species</th><th rowspan="2">Ph</th><th colspan="4">Square 4 (S12)</th><th colspan="4">Square 5 (S13)</th><th colspan="4">Square 6 (S14)</th></tr><tr><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>1</td><td>Cassipourea guianensis</td><td>T</td><td>10</td><td>20</td><td>0.0020</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>10</td><td>10</td><td>0.0010</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Erythroxylum havanense</td><td>Sh</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>20</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Eugenia ligustrina</td><td>Sh</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>10</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td></td><td></td><td>20</td><td>20</td><td>0.0020</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Garcinia humilis</td><td>T</td><td>10</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Geophila repens</td><td>He</td><td></td><td>4+</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>3+</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Guettarda odorata</td><td>Sh</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>10</td><td>10</td><td>0.0010</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>Inga laurina</td><td>T</td><td>10</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Myrcia citrifolia</td><td>Sh</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>50</td><td>3</td><td>0.0003</td><td></td><td></td><td>10</td><td>5</td><td>0.0005</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>Ocotea coriacea</td><td>T</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>20</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>Oxalis frutescens</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>20</td><td>3</td><td>0.0003</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>11</td><td>Pisonia fragans</td><td>T</td><td>15</td><td>3</td><td>0.0003</td><td></td><td></td><td>10</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>12</td><td>Spermacoce assurgens</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>30</td><td>10</td><td>0.0010</td><td>Y</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>13</td><td>Tabebuia heterophylla</td><td>T</td><td>5</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>14</td><td>Cassipourea guianensis</td><td>T</td><td>10</td><td>20</td><td>0.0020</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>10</td><td>10</td><td>0.0010</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>15</td><td>Erythroxylum havanense</td><td>Sh</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>20</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>16</td><td>Eugenia ligustrina</td><td>Sh</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>10</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td></td><td></td><td>20</td><td>20</td><td>0.0020</td><td></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table>
Continued

<table><tr><td>17</td><td>Garcinia humilis</td><td>T 10 2 0.0002</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>18</td><td>Geophila repens</td><td>He 4+</td><td></td><td>3+</td></tr><tr><td>19</td><td>Guettarda odorata</td><td>Sh</td><td></td><td></td></tr></table>

Legend. S: Survey/Ph: Physiognomic type in maximum morphogenetic development (T: Tree; Sh: Shrub; He: herbaceous)/H: Height in cm/A: Abundance/D: Density (cm²)/Fl: Flowers (Y: yes)/F: Fruits (Y: yes).

Furthermore, we note the presence of three Rubiaceae including *Geophila repens*, an herbaceous plant very widespread in the sample squares, forming fairly dense carpets whose individuals were difficult to differentiate and count. The species nevertheless seems very adapted to this ecotone, with an average to high abundance of individuals depending on the squares. *Spermacoce assurgens* is another herbaceous Rubiaceae present in a single square but with a relatively notable abundance and density. Its individuals were in flower when we visited. Finally, the shrub *Guettarda odorata* is also present in a single square with a relatively notable abundance and density.

### 3.1.4. Meso-Hygrophilous Forest Edges (Ecotone): Fond Baron

In the first surveys of this meso-hygrophilous ecotone, herbaceous plants predominate, with species such as *Diodia ocyrnifolia* and *Hyptis atrorubens*, often in flower. Plant diversity, both in terms of species and heights, is notable, even if the Simpson index values reveal high population abundances of the species *Hyptis atrorubens* or *Wedelia trilobata*. Many species were in flower during our visit, ensuring a strong attraction for pollinators and good seed dispersal. These transition zones with a moderate water supply allow species to adapt to humidity variations. The low density of plants seems to promote a balance between competition and survival in this partially shaded habitat (Table 6).

<table><caption>**Table 6.** Contents of the first three sample squares made at Fond Baron, in Fort-de-France.</caption><thead><tr><th rowspan="2">No.</th><th rowspan="2">Species</th><th rowspan="2">Ph</th><th colspan="4">Square 1 (S15)</th><th colspan="4">Square 2 (S16)</th><th colspan="4">Square 3 (S17)</th></tr><tr><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>1</td><td>Centella asiatica</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>2+</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Commelina diffusa</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>30</td><td>40</td><td>0.0040</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Desmodium incanum</td><td>He</td><td></td><td>3+</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>2+</td><td></td><td>Y</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Diodia ocyrnifolia</td><td>He</td><td>70</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td>70</td><td>6</td><td>0.0006</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td>30</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td>Y</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Hyptis atrorubens</td><td>He</td><td>40</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td>30</td><td>70</td><td>0.0070</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td>70</td><td>100</td><td>0.0100</td><td>Y</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Leptochloa filiformis</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>20</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td>20</td><td>3</td><td>0.0003</td><td>Y</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>Nautilocalyx melittifolius</td><td>He</td><td>30</td><td>3</td><td>0.0003</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Nephrolepis multiflora</td><td>F</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>4+</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>Piper dilatatum</td><td>Sh</td><td>60</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>15</td><td>3</td><td>0.0003</td><td></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table>
Continued

<table><tr><td>10</td><td>Pseudelephantopus spicatus</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td>80</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td></tr><tr><td>11</td><td>Scleria pterota</td><td>He</td><td>70</td><td>5</td><td>0.0005</td><td>Y</td><td>50</td><td>4</td><td>0.0004</td></tr><tr><td>12</td><td>Vigna luteola</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>2+</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>13</td><td>Wedelia trilobata</td><td>He</td><td>50</td><td>40</td><td>0.0040</td><td>Y</td><td>30</td><td>20</td><td>0.0020</td><td>Y</td><td>80</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td>Y</td></tr></table>

Legend. S: Survey/Ph: Physiognomic type in maximum morphogenetic development (Sh: Shrub; He: herbaceous; F: Fern)/H: Height in cm/A: Abundance/D: Density (cm²)/Fl: Flowers (Y: yes)/F: Fruits (Y: yes).

The last sample squares at Fond Baron also show a diversified vegetation of mainly herbaceous species and mostly in flower (Table 7). The low values of the Simpson index confirm this floristic diversity and that no species dominates numerically with the exception of the high population abundance of *Desmodium incanum* in square 6 (Survey 20). The density of species is low, but the majority of these plants thrive in this humid environment, with a high production of flowers and fruits favoring reproduction. We note the presence of two Rubiaceae: *Diodia ocymifolia* (herbaceous) and *Gonzalagunia hirsuta* (shrub) whose abundances and densities are low. *Diodia ocymifolia* is nevertheless better distributed in the squares than *Gonzalagunia hirsuta*.

<table><caption>**Table 7.** Contents of the last three sample squares made at Fond Baron, in Fort-de-France.</caption><thead><tr><th rowspan="2">No.</th><th rowspan="2">Species</th><th rowspan="2">Ph</th><th colspan="5">Square 4 (S18)</th><th colspan="5">Square 5 (S19)</th><th colspan="5">Square 6 (S20)</th></tr><tr><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th><th>H</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>Fl</th><th>F</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td></td><td>Simpson index</td><td></td><td colspan="5">0.2288</td><td colspan="5">0.120661157</td><td colspan="5">0.389010847</td></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Boehmeria nivea</td><td>He</td><td>50</td><td>7</td><td>0.0007</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Centella asiatica</td><td>He</td><td></td><td>1+</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Clerodendron paniculatum</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Commelina diffusa</td><td>He</td><td>20</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td>20</td><td>5</td><td>0.0005</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Cyperus luzulae</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Desmodium incanum</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>30</td><td>10</td><td>0.0010</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td>50</td><td>3</td><td>0.0003</td><td>Y</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>Diodia ocymifolia</td><td>He</td><td>50</td><td>7</td><td>0.0007</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td>40</td><td>3</td><td>0.0003</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td>50</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td>Y</td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Gonzalagunia hirsuta</td><td>Sh</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>50</td><td>4</td><td>0.0004</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>Hyptis atrorubens</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>30</td><td>10</td><td>0.0010</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>Impatiens hawkeri</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>50</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td>Y</td></tr><tr><td>11</td><td>Leptochloa filiformis</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>30</td><td>5</td><td>0.0005</td><td></td><td></td><td>30</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td>Y</td></tr><tr><td>12</td><td>Nautilocalyx melittifolius</td><td>He</td><td>50</td><td>6</td><td>0.0006</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td>10</td><td>2</td><td>0.0002</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>13</td><td>Ocotea coriacea</td><td>T</td><td>20</td><td>1</td><td>0.0001</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>14</td><td>Piper dilatatum</td><td>Sh</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>30</td><td>5</td><td>0.0005</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>15</td><td>Scleria pterota</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>30</td><td>6</td><td>0.0006</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>16</td><td>Sida rhombifolia</td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>50</td><td>5</td><td>0.0005</td><td>Y</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table>
## 3.2. Global Data Analysis Using CAH, AFC and ACP

### 3.2.1. Ascending Hierarchical Classification (HAC)

A hierarchical ascending classification (HAC) was carried out using a presence/absence table of all species. It is composed of 96 columns (species of all families, all physiognomic types included) and 29 rows (surveys or sample squares), (Appendix 3). The general dissimilarity and the “complete link” aggregation method offered the possibility of showing the differences in floristic compositions between our surveys, in the form of distinct groups or classes. The dendrograms obtained thus show five main groups or classes (Figure 6 and Table 10). These groups demonstrate a great heterogeneity of floristic compositions. While the majority of our edge surveys reflect the typical vegetation of adjacent forests, some have particularities that distinguish them from this general model (Table 10). The surveys of groups or classes 3 and 5, initially different in their location, nevertheless show a convergence of their floristic composition. Among the species that compose them, a significant number could be described as “erratic”, reflecting an ecological flexibility that could be linked to the dynamic conditions of these edges.

<figure><img src="image_8.png" /><figcaption>**Figure 6.** Dendrogram of dissimilarity of the 29 surveys according to their floristic composition.</figcaption></figure>

<table><caption>**Table 10.** Typology of stations according to their floristic compositions.</caption><thead><tr><th>No.</th><th>Intra-class variance</th><th>Surveys</th><th>Corresponding bioclimate type</th><th>Corresponding forest type</th><th>Floristic composition</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>CLASS 1</td><td>0000</td><td>S1</td><td>Dry Subhumid</td><td>Xerophilous</td><td>Diversity of physiognomic types of species (tree, shrub, herbaceous, liana). Relatively low floristic diversity. Presence of two Rubiaceae <i>Diodia ocymifolia</i> and <i>Spermacoce verticillata</i>.</td></tr></tbody></table>
Continued

<table><tr><td>CLASS 2</td><td>0000</td><td>S2</td><td>Dry Subhumid</td><td>Xerophilous</td><td>Diversity of physiognomic types of species (tree, shrub, herbaceous, liana). Relatively high floristic diversity. Presence of only one Rubiaceae: Spermacoce verticillata.</td></tr><tr><td>CLASS 3</td><td>4911</td><td>S3; S4; S9; S10; S11; S12; S13; S14; S27; S28.</td><td>Dry Subhumid/ Ecotone (dry subhumid to humid subhumid)/ Hyper humid</td><td>Xerophilous/ Xero-mesophilous/ Hygrophilous</td><td>Mixed composition of several types of edges. Diversity of physiognomic types of species (tree, shrub, herbaceous, liana). Low to high floristic diversity. Regular presence of several Rubiaceae: Diodia ocymifolia, Geophila repens, Guettarda odorata, Spermacoce assurgens.</td></tr><tr><td>CLASS 4</td><td>5750</td><td>S5; S6; S7; S8.</td><td>Dry Subhumid</td><td>Xerophilous</td><td>Diversity of physiognomic types of species (tree, shrub, bush, herbaceous, liana). Relatively high floristic diversity. Presence of only one Rubiaceae: Spermacoce verticillata.</td></tr><tr><td>CLASS 5</td><td>5308</td><td>S15; S16; S17; S18; S19; S20; S21; S22; S23; S24; S25; S26; S29.</td><td>Ecotone (humid to humid subhumid)/Hyper humid</td><td>Meso-hygrophilous/Hygrophilous</td><td>Mixed composition of several types of edges exclusively from humid bioclimates. Diversity of physiognomic types of species (tree, shrub, herbaceous, ferns). Moderate to high floristic diversity. Regular presence of several Rubiaceae: Diodia ocymifolia, Gonzalagunia hirsuta, Spermacoce assurgens. Spermacoce sp.</td></tr></table>

This analysis suggests that forest edges play a role as transitional habitats, serving as intermediate zones between forest ecosystems and other types of environments. They thus shelter a diverse set of species with varied ecological profiles. These areas could therefore contribute to regional diversity by supporting populations of species with varied ecological needs, some of which do not find favorable conditions in dense forests or adjacent open spaces.

### 3.2.2. Factorial Correspondence Analysis (FCA)

A factorial correspondence analysis (FCA) was performed using the same species presence/absence table, composed of 96 columns (species from all families, all physiognomic types included) and 29 rows (surveys or sample squares). Only the Hellinger distance allows to obtain a link between rows and columns, with the p-value (1.000) almost similar to the alpha significance level (0.9999), but the F1 and F2 axes support more than 30% of the information and give the best possible quality of data representation (Figure 7).

These axes demonstrate that the floristic compositions of our surveys are very heterogeneous (Figure 7, Table 10). While the floristic composition of the majority of our surveys reflects the adjacent forest type, some surveys are exceptions.
<figure><img src="image_9.png" /><figcaption>**Figure 7.** Factorial correspondence analysis (Appendix 2 and Appendix 3).</figcaption></figure>

Survey 28 carried out in a hyper-humid bioclimate at the Trace des Jésuites, for example, stands out from other surveys of the same bioclimate, and the surveys of the dry subhumid bioclimate, xerophilous forests, are split into two distinct groups (Figure 7). Forest edges therefore appear to constitute transitional habitats, sheltering large pools of species with different ecological profiles, including a significant number of so-called “erratic” species.

### 3.2.3. Principal Component Analysis (PCA)

A principal component analysis (PCA) was also carried out, this time using a cross-tabulation of data, composed of 29 rows (surveys or sample squares) and 7 columns (eco-climatic factors), (Appendix 2).

The eco-climatic factors that we took into account were as follows: altitude (meter), slope (%), annual rainfall (mm), average minimum annual temperature (°C), average maximum annual temperature (°C), soil type and level of sunshine. For these last two parameters, we had to assign numerical values to each variable in order to be able to take them into account. Thus, the numerical variables are as follows for the types of soils: Marine alluvium (1), Vertisols (2), Fersiallitic soils (3), Red or brown montmorillonitic soils (4). The numerical variables are as follows for the level of sunshine: medium (1), high (2). The links between the variables are very well taken into account, because the F1 and F2 axes of the PCA obtained using the Person Coefficient, support more than 90% of the information and give an excellent quality of their representation (Figure 8).

Figure 8 shows four groups of coherent surveys according to the ecological differences between the areas studied. Axis F1 organizes the surveys mainly according to humidity, altitude and shade gradients. It contrasts areas adapted to dry and open environments (edges of xerophilous and xero-mesophilous forests).
<figure><img src="image_10.png" /><figcaption>**Figure 8.** Principal component analysis of the eco-climatic factor matrix (Appendix 2). Legend. Tmin = Average annual minimum temperatures, Tmax = Average annual maximum temperatures.</figcaption></figure>

with areas adapted to humid and shaded environments (edges of meso-hygrophilous and hygrophilous forests). Axis F2, on the other hand, allows us to single out the surveys of ecotones (transition zones). This PCA attests to the plurality of forest edges inventoried in various bioclimates.

## 4. Discussion

Finally, five species of herbaceous Rubiaceae divided into three genera were recorded at forest edges: *Diodia ocyrnifolia*, *Geophila repens*, *Spermacoce assurgens*, *Spermacoce verticillata* and an undetermined species, *Spermacoce sp.* Two shrubby Rubiaceae, *Gonzalagunia hirsuta* and *Guettarda odorata*, were also observed. This low number of species confirms the rarity of herbaceous Rubiaceae, although additional inventories are necessary (Table 11) [2] [3] [8].

<table><caption>**Table 11.** Contents of the sample squares made at Plateau Boucher, in Fonds-Saint-Denis.</caption><thead><tr><th rowspan="3">No.</th><th rowspan="3">Species</th><th rowspan="3">Ph</th><th colspan="4">Dry subhumid</th><th colspan="4">Ecotone (transition between dry subhumid and humid subhumid)</th><th colspan="4">Ecotone (subhumid humid to hyperhumid)</th><th colspan="4">Hyper humid</th></tr><tr><th colspan="4">Xerophilous</th><th colspan="4">Xero-mesophilous</th><th colspan="4">Meso-hygrophilous</th><th colspan="4">Hygrophilous</th></tr><tr><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>F</th><th>Id</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>F</th><th>Id</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>F</th><th>Id</th><th>A</th><th>D</th><th>F</th><th>Id</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>1</td><td><i>Diodia ocyrnifolia</i></td><td>He</td><td>90</td><td>11.25</td><td>2</td><td>2.81</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>21</td><td>4</td><td>6</td><td>3.5</td><td>75</td><td>8</td><td>7</td><td>6.48</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td><i>Geophila repens</i></td><td>He</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>3+</td><td></td><td></td><td>5</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td><i>Gonzalagunia hirsuta</i></td><td>Sh</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>4</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0.11</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table>
Continued

<table><tr><td>4</td><td><i>Guettarda odorata</i></td><td><b>Sh</b></td><td>1</td><td>0.125</td><td>1</td><td>0.01</td><td>10</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>0.27</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td><i>Spermacoce<br>assurgens</i></td><td><b>He</b></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>11 1 4 0.54</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td><i>Spermacoce sp</i></td><td><b>He</b></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>1 0 1 0.01</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td><i>Spermacoce<br>verticillata</i></td><td><b>He</b></td><td>5</td><td>0.625</td><td>5</td><td>0.39</td><td>10</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>0.27</td><td></td></tr></table>

Legend. **Ph:** Physiognomic type in maximum morphogenetic development (Sh: Shrub; He: herbaceous)/**A:** Abundance/**D:** Density (cm²)/**F:** Frequency/**Id:** Distribution index.

Among these species, *Diodia ocymifolia* stands out for its high frequency, high density and wide distribution in various types of edges, demonstrating tolerance to humidity variations and notable competitiveness. *Geophila repens* forms dense mats in xero-mesophilic ecotones, while *Spermacoce assurgens* prefers wetter edges, where its distribution is notable but its abundance low. *Spermacoce verticillata*, on the other hand, is confined to xerophilous and xero-mesophilous edges, with a more marked presence in dry environments, while *Spermacoce sp.* is limited to a single individual recorded. The observed herbaceous Rubiaceae, except *Diodia ocymifolia*, show specific ecological preferences, limiting their distribution. These observations highlight the importance of forest edges as intermediate habitats hosting a variety of species, ranging from plants tolerant to fluctuating conditions to specialized species [23]-[25]. Some edges, particularly in humid bioclimates, display relatively high diversity, while those dominated by pioneer species such as *Diodia ocymifolia* display more restricted diversity. These variations reflect the influence of environmental conditions on the structure of plant communities [15]-[20]. These observations made on the island of Martinique find parallels in other tropical regions where certain species of Rubiaceae show great tolerance to environmental variations.

Studies conducted in Forest Guinea reveal, for example, that Rubiaceae are among the most represented families, illustrating their adaptation to varied ecological conditions [37]. Forest edges, located at the interface between open environments and forests, undoubtedly play a key role in the conservation of regional biodiversity in Martinique, by providing refuges and ecological corridors between different habitats [23]-[25].

## 5. Conclusion

At the end of a campaign of 29 floristic surveys carried out in the forest edges of the island of Martinique, our results confirm the influence of ecological variations, particularly in terms of light availability and humidity, on the distribution and floristic composition of herbaceous Rubiaceae. Although they represent a small proportion of the Rubiaceae present on the island, these plants show a great capacity to adapt to environmental gradients, allowing certain species, such as *Diodia ocymifolia*, to occupy both xerophilous and humid areas. Other species have a more restricted distribution, suggesting specific ecological preferences. These observa-
tions highlight the importance of forest edges as dynamic ecological corridors, of-
fering a diversity of niches conducive to the cohabitation of species with varied
ecological needs. By promoting pollination and seed dispersal, these transitional
habitats play a crucial role in the resilience of plant communities. This study there-
fore highlights the need to preserve these areas in order to maintain the floristic
and functional biodiversity of the island forest ecosystems of Martinique.

Acknowledgements

The floristic inventories were carried out with the help of several members of the Association of Martinican Botanists (ABM) between 2015 and 2020: Mr Patrick Rancelli, Ms Martine Despointes, Ms Geneviève Baral, Ms Catherine Blanchard, Ms Ghislaine Volny-Anne, Ms Karine Jaffory, Ms Monique Duval and Ms Josette Brival. Several eco-climatic and administrative data, usable in GIS software, were collected from public institutions: Météo-France (French meteorological organization), IRD (Research Institute for Development), IGN (National Geographic Institute). Sincere thanks to the University Professor, head of the UMR ESPACE DEV-BIORECA research group at the University of the Antilles, Mr. Philippe JOSEPH for proofreading the text.

Data Availability

There is no data available, made available to readers. On the other hand, data for woody Rubiaceae are available from the thesis conducted on Rubiaceae in Martinique, accessible online (https://theses.fr/2020ANTI0548).

Conflicts of Interest

The author declares no conflicts of interest regarding the publication of this paper.

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Appendix 1. List of Herbaceous Rubiaceae in the Lesser Antilles [2] [3] [10]

<table><thead><tr><th>No.</th><th>Scientific name</th><th>Synonymy</th><th>Presence in Martinique</th><th>Flowering period</th><th>Estimation of abundance</th><th>Endemism</th><th>Threat status in Martinique (INPN)</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>1</td><td>Diodia ocymifolia</td><td>Spermacoce ocymifolia</td><td>Yes</td><td>Almost all year round.</td><td>Common</td><td></td><td>Not rated</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Diodia rigida</td><td>Hexasepalum apiculatum</td><td>Yes</td><td></td><td>Rare</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Géophila repens</td><td></td><td>Yes</td><td></td><td>Quite rare</td><td></td><td>Not rated</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Hedyotis callitrichoides</td><td>Oldenlandiopsis callitrichoides</td><td></td><td>During the rainy season.</td><td>Rare</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Hedyotis corymbosa</td><td>Oldenlandia corymbosa</td><td>Yes</td><td>Almost all year round.</td><td>Quite rare</td><td></td><td>Not rated</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Hedyotis lancifolia</td><td>Oldenlandia lancifolia</td><td>Yes</td><td></td><td>Quite rare</td><td></td><td>Not rated</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>Hoffmannia pedunculata</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>Very rare</td><td>Possibly endemic to Jamaica.</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Mitracarpus hirtus</td><td></td><td>Yes</td><td>Almost all year round, intermittently.</td><td>Quite common</td><td></td><td>Not rated</td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>Mitracarpus polycladus</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>Pentodon pentandrus</td><td></td><td></td><td>All year round, except for exceptional drought.</td><td>Quite rare</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>11</td><td>Psychotria discolor</td><td>Notopleura discolor</td><td>Yes</td><td>All year round.</td><td>Quite rare</td><td></td><td>Not rated</td></tr><tr><td>12</td><td>Psychotria gardenioides</td><td></td><td>Yes</td><td></td><td>Very rare</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>13</td><td>Serissa foetida</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>Very rare</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>14</td><td>Sipanea pratensis</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>Very rare</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>15</td><td>Spermacoce assurgens</td><td>Spermacoce remota</td><td>Yes</td><td>All year round.</td><td>Very common</td><td></td><td>Not rated</td></tr><tr><td>16</td><td>Spermacoce berteroana</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>Rare</td><td>Lesser Antilles</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>17</td><td>Spermacoce confusa</td><td></td><td>Yes</td><td>Almost all year round.</td><td>Quite rare</td><td></td><td>Not rated</td></tr><tr><td>18</td><td>Spermacoce densiflora</td><td></td><td>Yes</td><td></td><td>Rare</td><td></td><td>Not rated</td></tr><tr><td>19</td><td>Spermacoce dussii</td><td></td><td></td><td>Almost all year round, except during long droughts.</td><td>Quite rare</td><td>Guadeloupe</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>20</td><td>Spermacoce eryngioides</td><td></td><td>Yes</td><td>Almost all year round.</td><td>Common</td><td></td><td>Not rated</td></tr><tr><td>21</td><td>Spermacoce ernstii</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>22</td><td>Spermacoce latifolia</td><td></td><td></td><td>All year round.</td><td>Quite common</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>23</td><td>Spermacoce prostrata</td><td></td><td>Yes</td><td>Almost all year round.</td><td>Common</td><td></td><td>Not rated</td></tr><tr><td>24</td><td>Spermacoce riparia</td><td>Spermacoce laevis</td><td></td><td></td><td>Quite common</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>25</td><td>Spermacoce tetraquetra</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>26</td><td>Spermacoce verticillata</td><td></td><td>Yes</td><td></td><td>Quite rare</td><td></td><td>Not rated</td></tr></tbody></table>
Appendix 2. List of the 29 Floristic Surveys

<table><thead><tr><th>No.</th><th>Location</th><th>Latitude</th><th>Longitude</th><th>T<sub>min</sub></th><th>T<sub>max</sub></th><th>Annual<br>Rainfall</th><th>Level of<br>sunshine</th><th>Altitude</th><th>Slope</th><th>Soil</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>S1</td><td>Cap Macré</td><td>1601537.462</td><td>735661.077</td><td>23.6</td><td>29</td><td>1641</td><td>high</td><td>1</td><td>0%</td><td>Marine alluvium</td></tr><tr><td>S2</td><td>Cap Macré</td><td>1601600.46</td><td>734691.971</td><td>23.4</td><td>28.8</td><td>1685</td><td>high</td><td>3</td><td>1%</td><td>Vertisols</td></tr><tr><td>S3</td><td>Cap Macré</td><td>1601524.257</td><td>734636.176</td><td>23.4</td><td>28.8</td><td>1685</td><td>high</td><td>5</td><td>8.9%</td><td>Vertisols</td></tr><tr><td>S4</td><td>Cap Macré</td><td>1601518.844</td><td>734630.42</td><td>23.4</td><td>28.8</td><td>1685</td><td>high</td><td>5</td><td>8.9%</td><td>Vertisols</td></tr><tr><td>S5</td><td>Morne Aca</td><td>1599875.254</td><td>726377.855</td><td>22.6</td><td>28.4</td><td>1697</td><td>high</td><td>224</td><td>12%</td><td>Vertisols</td></tr><tr><td>S6</td><td>Morne Aca</td><td>1599786.339</td><td>726327.511</td><td>22.6</td><td>28.4</td><td>1697</td><td>high</td><td>214</td><td>3%</td><td>Vertisols</td></tr><tr><td>S7</td><td>Morne Aca</td><td>1599757.151</td><td>726323.398</td><td>22.6</td><td>28.4</td><td>1697</td><td>high</td><td>213</td><td>17.7%</td><td>Vertisols</td></tr><tr><td>S8</td><td>Morne Aca</td><td>1599751.683</td><td>726320.491</td><td>22.6</td><td>28.4</td><td>1697</td><td>high</td><td>213</td><td>17.7%</td><td>Vertisols</td></tr><tr><td>S9</td><td>Pointe<br>Rouge to<br>Pointe à<br>Bibi</td><td>1632851.888</td><td>723003.514</td><td>23.8</td><td>30.6</td><td>1945</td><td>medium</td><td>18</td><td>18%</td><td>Fersiallitic soils</td></tr><tr><td>S10</td><td>Pointe<br>Rouge to<br>Pointe à<br>Bibi</td><td>1632881.348</td><td>723004.832</td><td>23.8</td><td>30.6</td><td>1945</td><td>medium</td><td>13</td><td>16.7%</td><td>Fersiallitic soils</td></tr><tr><td>S11</td><td>Pointe<br>Rouge to<br>Pointe à<br>Bibi</td><td>1632882.75</td><td>723002.278</td><td>23.8</td><td>30.6</td><td>1945</td><td>medium</td><td>13</td><td>16.7%</td><td>Fersiallitic soils</td></tr><tr><td>S12</td><td>Pointe<br>Rouge to<br>Pointe à<br>Bibi</td><td>1632860.584</td><td>722994.881</td><td>23.8</td><td>30.6</td><td>1994</td><td>medium</td><td>18</td><td>18%</td><td>Fersiallitic soils</td></tr><tr><td>S13</td><td>Pointe<br>Rouge to<br>Pointe à<br>Bibi</td><td>1632866.9</td><td>722995.6</td><td>23.8</td><td>30.6</td><td>1994</td><td>medium</td><td>13</td><td>16.7%</td><td>Fersiallitic soils</td></tr><tr><td>S14</td><td>Pointe<br>Rouge to<br>Pointe à<br>Bibi</td><td>1632889.671</td><td>722745.591</td><td>23.8</td><td>30.6</td><td>1994</td><td>medium</td><td>58</td><td>30.5%</td><td>Fersiallitic soils</td></tr><tr><td>S15</td><td>Fond Baron</td><td>1623498.353</td><td>705354.726</td><td>20.2</td><td>26.8</td><td>2613</td><td>medium</td><td>433</td><td>31%</td><td>Red or brown<br>montmorillonitic soils</td></tr><tr><td>S16</td><td>Fond Baron</td><td>1623495.12</td><td>705339.001</td><td>20.2</td><td>26.8</td><td>2613</td><td>medium</td><td>433</td><td>31%</td><td>Red or brown<br>montmo-rillonitic<br>soils</td></tr><tr><td>S17</td><td>Fond Baron</td><td>1623560.645</td><td>705379.985</td><td>20.2</td><td>26.8</td><td>2613</td><td>medium</td><td>427</td><td>19.8%</td><td>Red or brown<br>montmo-rillonitic<br>soils</td></tr><tr><td>S18</td><td>Fond Baron</td><td>1623545.479</td><td>705429.188</td><td>20.2</td><td>26.8</td><td>2613</td><td>medium</td><td>420</td><td>31.7%</td><td>Red or brown<br>montmo-rillonitic<br>soils</td></tr><tr><td>S19</td><td>Fond Baron</td><td>1623539.652</td><td>705417.459</td><td>20.2</td><td>26.8</td><td>2613</td><td>medium</td><td>420</td><td>31.7%</td><td>Red or brown<br>montmo-rillonitic<br>soils</td></tr></tbody></table>
Continued

<table><tr><td>S20</td><td>Fond Baron</td><td>1623568.246</td><td>705489.718</td><td>20.2</td><td>26.8</td><td>2613</td><td>medium</td><td>407</td><td>49%</td><td>Red or brown montmo-rillonitic soils</td></tr><tr><td>S21</td><td>Plateau Boucher</td><td>1628052.279</td><td>704912.979</td><td>18.6</td><td>25.6</td><td>5088</td><td>medium</td><td>635</td><td>20.5%</td><td>Red or brown montmo-rillonitic soils</td></tr><tr><td>S22</td><td>Plateau Boucher</td><td>1628047.851</td><td>704955.099</td><td>18.6</td><td>25.6</td><td>5088</td><td>medium</td><td>635</td><td>18.8%</td><td>Red or brown montmo-rillonitic soils</td></tr><tr><td>S23</td><td>Plateau Boucher</td><td>1628046.581</td><td>704977.844</td><td>18.6</td><td>25.6</td><td>5088</td><td>medium</td><td>635</td><td>17.6%</td><td>Red or brown montmo-rillonitic soils</td></tr><tr><td>S24</td><td>Plateau Boucher</td><td>1627971.113</td><td>705070.648</td><td>19.6</td><td>26.6</td><td>4532</td><td>medium</td><td>615</td><td>17.5%</td><td>Red or brown montmo-rillonitic soils</td></tr><tr><td>S25</td><td>Plateau Boucher</td><td>1627899.66</td><td>705114.617</td><td>19.6</td><td>26.6</td><td>4532</td><td>medium</td><td>619</td><td>30.4%</td><td>Red or brown montmo-rillonitic soils</td></tr><tr><td>S26</td><td>Trace des Jésuites</td><td>1630489.461</td><td>704634.000</td><td>18.9</td><td>25.8</td><td>5343</td><td>medium</td><td>550</td><td>25.7%</td><td>Red or brown montmo-rillonitic soils</td></tr><tr><td>S27</td><td>Trace des Jésuites</td><td>1630538.9</td><td>704623.0</td><td>18.9</td><td>25.8</td><td>5343</td><td>medium</td><td>546</td><td>14.9%</td><td>Red or brown montmo-rillonitic soils</td></tr><tr><td>S28</td><td>Trace des Jésuites</td><td>1630570.1</td><td>704619.1</td><td>18.9</td><td>25.8</td><td>5343</td><td>medium</td><td>540</td><td>35.4%</td><td>Red or brown montmo-rillonitic soils</td></tr><tr><td>S29</td><td>Trace des Jésuites</td><td>1630613.0</td><td>704602.7</td><td>18.9</td><td>25.8</td><td>5343</td><td>medium</td><td>542</td><td>37%</td><td>Red or brown montmo-rillonitic soils</td></tr></table>
Appendix 3. List of the 96 Species Recorded

<table><thead><tr><th>No.</th><th>Family</th><th>Name Species</th><th>Synonymy</th><th>Physiognomy in maximum morphogenetic development</th><th>Invasive in Martinique according to DEAL</th><th>Abbreviations</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>1</td><td>Fabaceae</td><td>Abrus precatorius</td><td></td><td>Liana</td><td></td><td>ABPRE</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Asteraceae</td><td>Ageratum conyzoides</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>AGCON</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Asteraceae</td><td>Ageratum houstonianum</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>AGHOU</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Asteraceae</td><td>Bidens pilosa</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>BIDPIL</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Asteraceae</td><td>Bidens sp</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>BIDSP</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Urticaceae</td><td>Boehmeria nivea</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>BOEHIV</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>Burseraceae</td><td>Bursera simaruba</td><td></td><td>Tree</td><td></td><td>BURSIM</td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Scrophulariaceae</td><td>Capraria biflora</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>CAPBIF</td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>Rhizophoraceae</td><td>Cassipourea guianensis</td><td></td><td>Tree</td><td></td><td>CASGUI</td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>Poaceae</td><td>Cenchrus echinatus</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>CENECH</td></tr><tr><td>11</td><td>Apiaceae</td><td>Centella asiatica</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>CENASI</td></tr><tr><td>12</td><td>Fabaceae</td><td>Centrosema virginianum<br>Chamaecrista glandulosa var. schwarzii</td><td></td><td>Liana</td><td></td><td>CEVIR</td></tr><tr><td>13</td><td>Caesalpiniaceae</td><td>Chamaecrista nictitans</td><td></td><td>Shrub</td><td></td><td>CHAGLAN</td></tr><tr><td>14</td><td>Caesalpiniaceae</td><td>Chamaecrista obcordata</td><td></td><td>Shrub</td><td></td><td>CHANIC</td></tr><tr><td>15</td><td>Caesalpiniaceae</td><td>Chamaecrista obcordata</td><td></td><td>Shrub</td><td></td><td>CHAOB</td></tr><tr><td>16</td><td>Euphorbiaceae</td><td>Chamaesyce hirta</td><td>Euphorbia hirta</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>CHAHIR</td></tr><tr><td>17</td><td>Poaceae</td><td>Chloris inflata</td><td>Chloris barbata</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>CHINF</td></tr><tr><td>18</td><td>Verbenaceae</td><td>Citharexylum spinosum</td><td></td><td>Tree</td><td></td><td>CITSPI</td></tr><tr><td>19</td><td>Verbenaceae</td><td>Clerodendron paniculatum</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>Yes</td><td>CLERPAN</td></tr><tr><td>20</td><td>Commelinaceae</td><td>Commelina diffusa</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>COMDIF</td></tr><tr><td>21</td><td>Boraginaceae</td><td>Cordia collococca</td><td></td><td>Tree</td><td></td><td>CORDCOL</td></tr><tr><td>22</td><td>Euphorbiaceae</td><td>Croton bixoides</td><td></td><td>Shrub</td><td></td><td>CROBIX</td></tr><tr><td>23</td><td>Lythraceae</td><td>Cuphea carthagenensis</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>CUPCAR</td></tr><tr><td>24</td><td>Convolvulaceae</td><td>Cuscuta americana</td><td></td><td>Liana</td><td></td><td>CUSAME</td></tr><tr><td>25</td><td>Cyperaceae</td><td>Cyperus luzulae</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>CYPLUZ</td></tr><tr><td>26</td><td>Cyperaceae</td><td>Cyperus surinamensis</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>CYPSUR</td></tr><tr><td>27</td><td>Fabaceae</td><td>Desmodium heterocarpum</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>DESHET</td></tr><tr><td>28</td><td>Fabaceae</td><td>Desmodium incanum</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>DESINC</td></tr><tr><td>29</td><td>Fabaceae</td><td>Desmodium sp</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>DESSP</td></tr></tbody></table>
Continued

<table><tr><td>30</td><td>Mimosaceae</td><td>Dichrostachys cinerea</td><td rowspan="6">Spermacoce<br>ocymifolia</td><td>Shrub</td><td>Yes</td><td>DICCIN</td></tr><tr><td>31</td><td>Rubiaceae</td><td>Diodia ocyrifolia</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>DIOCY</td></tr><tr><td>32</td><td>Cyperaceae</td><td>Eleocharis flavescens</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>ELEOFLA</td></tr><tr><td>33</td><td>Gentianaceae</td><td>Enicostema<br>verticillatum</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>ENVER</td></tr><tr><td>34</td><td>Poaceae</td><td>Eriochloa polystachya</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>ERPOL</td></tr><tr><td>35</td><td>Erythroxylaceae</td><td>Erythroxylum<br>havanense</td><td>Shrub</td><td></td><td>ERYTHAV</td></tr><tr><td>36</td><td>Myrtaceae</td><td>Eugenia cordata</td><td>Shrub</td><td></td><td>EUCOR</td></tr><tr><td>37</td><td>Myrtaceae</td><td>Eugenia ligustrina</td><td>Shrub</td><td></td><td>EULIG</td></tr><tr><td>38</td><td>Myrtaceae</td><td>Eugenia monticola</td><td>Bush</td><td></td><td>EUMON</td></tr><tr><td>39</td><td>Clusiaceae</td><td>Garcinia humilis</td><td>Tree</td><td></td><td>GARCHUM</td></tr><tr><td>40</td><td>Rubiaceae</td><td>Geophila repens</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>GEOREP</td></tr><tr><td>41</td><td>Rubiaceae</td><td>Gonzalagunia hirsuta</td><td>Shrub</td><td></td><td>GONHIR</td></tr><tr><td>42</td><td>Rubiaceae</td><td>Guettarda odorata</td><td>Shrub</td><td></td><td>GUETODO</td></tr><tr><td>43</td><td>Caesalpiniaceae</td><td>Haematoxylum<br>campechianum</td><td>Tree</td><td></td><td>HAECAM</td></tr><tr><td>44</td><td>Boraginaceae</td><td>Heliotropium ternatum</td><td rowspan="10">Euploca<br>ternata</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>HELTER</td></tr><tr><td>45</td><td>Lamiaceae</td><td>Hyptis atrorubens</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>HYPATR</td></tr><tr><td>46</td><td>Balsaminaceae</td><td>Impatiens hawkeri</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>IMPHAW</td></tr><tr><td>47</td><td>Mimosaceae</td><td>Inga laurina</td><td>Tree</td><td></td><td>INGLAU</td></tr><tr><td>48</td><td>Convolvulaceae</td><td>Ipomoea setifera</td><td>Liana</td><td></td><td>IPOSET</td></tr><tr><td>49</td><td>Cyperaceae</td><td>Kyllinga erecta<br>var polyphylla</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>KYLPOL</td></tr><tr><td>50</td><td>Cyperaceae</td><td>Kyllinga sp</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>KYLSP</td></tr><tr><td>51</td><td>Poaceae</td><td>Leptochloa filiformis</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>LEPFIL</td></tr><tr><td>52</td><td>Mimosaceae</td><td>Leucaena leucocephala</td><td>Tree</td><td></td><td>LEULEU</td></tr><tr><td>53</td><td>Fabaceae</td><td>Lonchocarpus<br>punctatus</td><td>Tree</td><td></td><td>LONPUN</td></tr><tr><td>54</td><td>Onagraceae</td><td>Ludwigia octovalvis</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>LUDOCT</td></tr><tr><td>55</td><td>Bignoniaceae</td><td>Macfadyena<br>unguis-cati</td><td>Dolichandra<br>unguis-cati</td><td>Liana</td><td></td><td>MACUNG</td></tr><tr><td>56</td><td>Myrtaceae</td><td>Myrcia citrifolia</td><td>Shrub</td><td></td><td>MYRCIT</td></tr><tr><td>57</td><td>Gesneriaceae</td><td>Nautilocalyx<br>melittifolius</td><td>Chrysothemis<br>melittifolia</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>NAUMEL</td></tr><tr><td>58</td><td>Nephrolepidaceae</td><td>Nephrolepis multiflora</td><td></td><td>Fern</td><td></td><td>NEPMUT</td></tr><tr><td>59</td><td>Lamiaceae</td><td>Ocimum gratissimum</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>OCIGRA</td></tr><tr><td>60</td><td>Lauraceae</td><td>Ocotea coriacea</td><td>Damburneya<br>coriacea</td><td>Tree</td><td></td><td>OCOCOR</td></tr><tr><td>61</td><td>Oxalidaceae</td><td>Oxalis barrelieri</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>OXABAR</td></tr><tr><td>62</td><td>Oxalidaceae</td><td>Oxalis frutescens</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td></td><td>OXAFRUT</td></tr></table>
Continued

<table><tr><td>63</td><td>Poaceae</td><td>Paspalum conjugatum</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>PASPCON</td></tr><tr><td>64</td><td>Sapindaceae</td><td>Paullinia cururu</td><td></td><td>Liana</td><td>PAULCUR</td></tr><tr><td>65</td><td>Euphorbiaceae</td><td>Phyllanthus urinaria</td><td>Emblica urinaria</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>PHYLURI</td></tr><tr><td>66</td><td>Piperaceae</td><td>Piper dilatatum</td><td></td><td>Shrub</td><td>PIPDIL</td></tr><tr><td>67</td><td>Nyctaginaceae</td><td>Pisonia fragans</td><td></td><td>Tree</td><td>PISFRA</td></tr><tr><td>68</td><td>Mimosaceae</td><td>Pithecellobium unguis-cati</td><td></td><td>Tree</td><td>PITUNG</td></tr><tr><td>69</td><td>Polygalaceae</td><td>Polygala paniculata</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>POLPAN</td></tr><tr><td>70</td><td>Asteraceae</td><td>Pseudelephantopus spicatus</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>PSEUSPI</td></tr><tr><td>71</td><td>Melastomataceae</td><td>Pterolepis glomerata</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>PTERGLO</td></tr><tr><td>72</td><td>Cyperaceae</td><td>Rhynchospora nervosa</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>RHYNER</td></tr><tr><td>73</td><td>Cyperaceae</td><td>Rhynchospora polyphylla</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>RHYNPOL</td></tr><tr><td>74</td><td>Rosaceae</td><td>Rubus rosifolius</td><td></td><td>Bush</td><td>RUBROS</td></tr><tr><td>75</td><td>Ochnaceae</td><td>Sauvagesia erecta</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>SAUEREC</td></tr><tr><td>76</td><td>Cyperaceae</td><td>Scleria pterota</td><td>Scleria melaleuca</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>SCLERPTER</td></tr><tr><td>77</td><td>Polygalaceae</td><td>Securidaca diversifolia</td><td></td><td>Liana</td><td>SECUDIV</td></tr><tr><td>78</td><td>Malvaceae</td><td>Sida acuta</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>SIDACU</td></tr><tr><td>79</td><td>Malvaceae</td><td>Sida rhombifolia</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>SIDARHO</td></tr><tr><td>80</td><td>Malvaceae</td><td>Sida sp</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>SIDASP</td></tr><tr><td>81</td><td>Rubiaceae</td><td>Spermacoce assurgens</td><td>Spermacoce remota</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>SPERASU</td></tr><tr><td>82</td><td>Rubiaceae</td><td>Spermacoce sp</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>SPERSP</td></tr><tr><td>83</td><td>Rubiaceae</td><td>Spermacoce verticillata</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>SPERVER</td></tr><tr><td>84</td><td>Loganiaceae</td><td>Spigelia anthelmia</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>SPIGANT</td></tr><tr><td>85</td><td>Anacardiaceae</td><td>Spondias mombin</td><td></td><td>Tree</td><td>SPONMON</td></tr><tr><td>86</td><td>Poaceae</td><td>Sporobolus jacquemontii</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>SPORJAC</td></tr><tr><td>87</td><td>Verbenaceae</td><td>Stachytarpheta jamaicensis</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>STACJAM</td></tr><tr><td>88</td><td>Verbenaceae</td><td>Stachytarpheta sp</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>STACSP</td></tr><tr><td>89</td><td>Asteraceae</td><td>Synedrella nodiflora</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>SYNNOD</td></tr><tr><td>90</td><td>Bignoniaceae</td><td>Tabebuia heterophylla</td><td></td><td>Tree</td><td>TABHET</td></tr><tr><td>91</td><td>Euphorbiaceae</td><td>Tragia volubilis</td><td></td><td>Liana</td><td>TRAGVOL</td></tr><tr><td>92</td><td>Malvaceae</td><td>Urena lobata</td><td></td><td>Bush</td><td>URELOB</td></tr><tr><td>93</td><td>Sapindaceae</td><td>Urvillea ulmacea</td><td></td><td>Liana</td><td>URVULM</td></tr><tr><td>94</td><td>Asteraceae</td><td>Vernonia cinerea</td><td>Cyanthillium cinereum</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>VERCIN</td></tr><tr><td>95</td><td>Fabaceae</td><td>Vigna luteola</td><td></td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>VIGLUT</td></tr><tr><td>96</td><td>Asteraceae</td><td>Wedelia trilobata</td><td>Sphagneticola trilobata</td><td>Herbaceous</td><td>WEDTRI</td></tr></table>