Muthumali, E. L. M.Jayasuriya, K. M. G. G.2025-11-062025-11-062025-11-07Proceedings of the Postgraduate Institute of Science Research Congress (RESCON) -2025, University of Peradeniya, P 1183051-4622https://ir.lib.pdn.ac.lk/handle/20.500.14444/6066Invasive plant species Miconia crenata poses a significant threat to biodiversity and ecosystem stability in Sri Lanka. Its rapid spread necessitates the development of effective management strategies, which require a deeper understanding of its biology, particularly the plasticity of seed functional traits. This study investigated seed dormancy variations through monthly dry storage treatments, germination patterns under different light conditions [Light/dark condition (12 h/12 h) and complete dark conditions (24 h)], environmental adaptability via the hydrotime model across three populations from Riverston (7°31'23.6"N 80°44'11.7"E), Hanthana (7°15'31.5"N 80°36'01.9"E) and Galle (6°03'31.0"N 80°18'47.9"E), and the impact of bioclimatic factors on seed functional traits, specifically moisture content (oven drying method), dry weight, germination timing, dormancy, and osmotic stress tolerance [0, –0.1, –0.2, –0.5, and –1 MPa poly(ethylene glycol) solutions], each tested with four replicates. Germination trials under different light conditions revealed the variability in the portion of non-dormant seeds among populations. Dry storage treatments revealed significant differences in dormancy patterns (p < 0.001) with distinct dormancy cycles. However, there was no significant difference in seed moisture content (w = 2.867, p = 0.236), dry weight (F = 3.777, p = 0.087), and the hydro-time constant (HƟ; z = 2.997, p = 0.22) among populations. Riverston seeds exhibited the lowest base water potential (˗2.54 MPa), indicating greater drought tolerance ability, while Galle seeds showed higher moisture content (14.41%), higher base water potential (–3.34 MPa), and lower dormancy, reflecting adaptation to wetter environments. Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) demonstrated a strong correlation between temperature (BIO1), and diurnal range (BIO2), with seed functional traits, highlighting the environmental influences on germination behavior. The study confirms high plasticity in seed traits of M. crenata, enabling its successful establishment in diverse climates. Future research should focus on analysing genetic variation and assessing seed trait responses under simulated natural conditions to refine management approaches.en-USEcosystem managementGermination plasticityInvasive speciesMiconia crenataSeed dormancyArticle