The Relationships of Habitat Conditions, Height Level, and Geographical Position with Fruit and Seed Traits in Populations of Invasive Vine Echinocystis lobata (Cucurbitaceae) in Central and Eastern Europe

In climbing plants, fruits can be formed at different heights, depending on the height of external support. However, effect fruit and seed traits in invasive vines Cucurbitaceae has not been intensively studied so far. Europe, Echinocystis lobata, a North American member Cucurbitaceae, is considered one most abundant alien plants spreading natural riparian forests, thickets, tall herbs, whereas it rare species urban woodlands. this study, we tested variability selected E. lobata connection with habitat origin (natural, semi-natural, anthropogenic), type (using EUNIS classification), (the distance between ground), geographical position. The study was conducted 2018 65 sites located Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia. each site, random sample 10 fresh mature collected from subsequent 0.50 m intervals height. length, width, weight fruits, as well total number seeds undeveloped per fruit, were examined. Moreover, well-developed weighed. statistical analysis showed significant origin, type, traits. largest range (from 0.00 to 4.00 m) observed two types habitats (F—heathland, scrub, tundra; G—woodland, forest, other wooded land). positively correlated fruits. little heavier bigger northeast area. distribution heights may contribute better dispersal by animals wind, also protect being eaten granivorous animals. defence against seed-eating expected stronger semi-natural habitats, banks shores inland surface waters, where production highest. influence germination seedling survival various their importance invasiveness require further study.