In early January 2025, a remarkably unusual Yellow Bamboo Palm (Chrysalidocarpus lutescens– Arecaceae) inflorescence was discovered hanging from its trunk in Fitts Village, St. James, West Barbados, West Indies. Part of the inflorescence exhibited fasciation, a rare tissue abnormality characterized by flattening stems, roots, or reproductive structures. I previously observed fasciation in the branches of a Sapodilla (Manilkara zapota L.) in south Trinidad, W.I., a potential first record for the island.
A survey was conducted to investigate the possible cause of the fasciation observed in Yellow Bamboo Palms, examining over 250 palms across Barbados over three months. However, no additional palm fasciation was found. Commonly cited causes of fasciation include genetic mutations resulting from close inbreeding over multiple generations; biological interactions such as pest or disease; and adverse environmental disturbances, particularly extreme drought.
Further research is necessary to determine the specific factors contributing to this fasciation in Yellow Bamboo Palms.
(A) Palm cluster in which the fasciated inflorescence was initially observed hanging.
(B) Overview of the complete fasciated inflorescence.
(C-F) Close-up images detailing the fasciated section of the inflorescence, highlighting the flattened rachilla and presence of aborted fruit.
