Identity of the Casuarina sp. in Turkey

Abstract

Sheoaks (Casuarina sp.) are a common ornamental and amenity trees grown in provinces of Turkey along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts. In the literature this species is identified as Casuarina equisetifolia L., however, recent field observations have brought this into doubt. Qualitative and quantitative characters for 14 specimens (7 female and 7 male) collected from Izmir, Dalaman, Adana and Ceyhan, indicated that the correct determination is Casuarina cunninghamiana Miq. This is a new record for Turkey for a species that is considered an invasive woody weed in up to 20 countries. However, as this species has been grown in Turkey of many decades and there is no evidence of naturalization, it is not considered to represent a potential threat and no immediate management action is considered necessary. 

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