Seed predation and seedling recruitment in plants: the effect of the distance between parents

Bustamante, RO; Simonetti, JA

Abstract

We present a graphic model that explores the effect of distance between parent plants on seed predation and seedling recruitment. Based on the assumption that distance between parents may affect the shape of the seed shadow, the model predicts that seed predators may affect seedling recruitment curves under isolated plants but they are unable to affect these curves under close parent plants. The predictions of the model are tested experimentally in Cryptocarya alba (Lauraceae), a common tree of the Mediterranean forest, Central Chile. Results show that predictions are not met under isolated parent plants. Although seed density decreases significantly away from parent plants, this effect is not relevant for seed predation and seedling recruitment. The biotic/abiotic contrast existing under the canopy vs outside the canopy, plus the shade-tolerance of this tree, better explains the seedling recruitment observed under isolated parent plants. Nevertheless, the predictions of the model are corroborated under close parent plants. Seed shadows overlap to the extent that they generate a homogeneous seed distribution, homogeneous seed predation and homogeneous seedling recruitment as well. We discuss the implications of the model in terms of the spatial pattern of seedlings and the benefits of dispersal from isolated and close parent plants.

Más información

Título según WOS: Seed predation and seedling recruitment in plants: the effect of the distance between parents
Título según SCOPUS: Seed predation and seedling recruitment in plants: The effect of the distance between parents
Título de la Revista: PLANT ECOLOGY
Volumen: 147
Número: 2
Editorial: Springer
Fecha de publicación: 2000
Página de inicio: 173
Página final: 183
Idioma: English
URL: http://link.springer.com/10.1023/A:1009852400814
DOI:

10.1023/A:1009852400814

Notas: ISI, SCOPUS