Probable long distance dispersal of Leptinella plumosa Hook.f. to Heard Island: habitat, status and discussion of its arrival

Abstract

Abstract During the 2003-2004 austral summer the number of vascular plant species recorded from Heard Island rose from 11 to 12 with the discovery of one small plant of Leptinella plumosa Hook.f. (Asteraceae), an indigenous subantarctic species. It is described and its habitat, likely status and possible means of arrival on the island are discussed. We conclude that the species probably arrived by natural means with a seabird as its most likely dispersal vector. The life history and biology of L. plumosa indicates its likely persistence on Heard Island.