We present a range of observations on the reproductive morphology, pollination biology and cultivation of Lodoicea maldivica (coco de mer), an endangered species with great ecological, economic and cultural importance. We review the history of study of this charismatic species. Morphological studies of the male inflorescence indicate its importance as a year-round food source to the Seychelles fauna. In situ observations suggest a number of potential biotic and abiotic pollination mechanisms including bees, flies, slugs, and geckos; trigonid bees are identified as the most likely potential natural pollinator. We outline a successful programme for ex situ pollination, germination, and cultivation of the coco de mer, highlighting the importance of temperature, humidity and light levels as well as maintaining an undisturbed environment. In combination with continued protection and monitoring, this advice may aid the future in situ and ex situ conservation of the coco de mer. 1. Introduction Lodoicea maldivica (J F Gmel.) Pers. (Figure 1) is endemic to the Seychelles and is a remarkable species not only in biology, but also in ecological, economic and cultural significance. A tall, straight-trunked, dioecious palm with large fan-shaped leaves, it holds world records for the heaviest fruit of any palm (up to 45？kg [1]; Figure 1(e)), the heaviest seed in the plant kingdom (up to 25？kg [1]; Figure 1(f)), and the largest female flowers of any palm [2] (see Figures 1(b) and 1(c)). Figure 1: Morphology of Lodoicea maldivica (coco de mer). (a) Mature male tree showing axillary inflorescence, Vallée de Mai, Praslin, Republic of Seychelles, (b) detail of female inflorescence with developing fruits, Kebun Raya Indonesia, (c) female flower at anthesis, (d) male inflorescence with flowers at anthesis, (e) developing fruits, (f) mature nut sent from Vallée de Mai to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh for propagation. Scale bars: (a) = approx. 1？m; (b) = approx. 10？cm; (c) = 2？cm; (d) = 10？cm (e) = 10？cm; (f) = 10？cm. As described in detail by Lionnet [3] and Fischer et al. [4], L. maldivica was first recorded by Garcia de Orta in 1563 as coco das Maldivas in Colóquios dos Simples e Drogas he Cousas Medicinais da índia e assi Dalg？as Frutas Achadas Nella Onde se Tratam Alg？as Cousas Tocantes a Medicina, Pratica, e Outras Cousas Boas Pera Saber [5]. At this time, its large, highly valued nuts (Figure 1(f)) could be found all around the Indian Ocean, including the Maldives, India, and Sri Lanka, and were traded as far afield as China (where they were renowned for their
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