Seed predation of Araucaria angustifolia in the Brazilian Araucaria Forest influence of deposition site and comparative role of small and large mammals
Seed predation of Araucaria angustifolia in the Brazilian Araucaria Forest influence of deposition site and comparative role of small and large mammals
Iob,G.; Vieira,E.M.
Plant Ecology 8(2): 185-196
2008
ISSN/ISBN: 1385-0237
DOI: 10.1007/s11258-007-9394-6
Seed predation and seed dispersal are key factors that determine plant recruitment. In this study, we compared the role of small (<200 g) and 'large' mammals as predators of <i>Araucaria angustifolia</i> (Araucariaceae) seeds in the Brazilian Araucaria Forest. We also investigated the effect of deposition site, namely open grassland, forest edge or forest interior (>50 m from the edge) on seed-removal rates. We conducted field experiments on seed removal in July 2003 and 2004.