Accidental epiphytism of Phoenix sylvestris and Ficus religiosa on Terminalia elliptica in a Central Indian forest

This study reports a rare case of accidental epiphytism involving a typically terrestrial palm, Phoenix sylvestris, growing in association with Ficus religiosa on a mature Terminalia elliptica in a Central Indian deciduous forest. Both species emerged from a common bark fissure at a height of 1.82 m, forming a stable tripartite association. Field-based longitudinal observations revealed sustained growth of P. sylvestris, indicated by continuous frond turnover and active foliar development despite seasonal thermal stress. Comparative physico-chemical analysis demonstrated that the arboreal substrate provided a nutrient-enriched microhabitat, with higher organic carbon (1.2%) and available phosphorus (182.4 kg/ha) than the surrounding terrestrial soil. These conditions likely supported the establishment and persistence of both species in a vertical niche. Seed deposition by frugivorous birds is proposed as the primary mechanism for colonisation. Although minor localised bark decay was observed at the point of establishment, no significant adverse effects on host health were detected. This study highlights the ecological significance of mature tree bark as a nutrient-retentive microhabitat and provides evidence that, under favourable conditions, terrestrial plant species can establish and persist in arboreal environments.