Edge effect on post-dispersal artificial seed predation in the southeastern Amazonia, Brazil

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Conservation Biology

Background:

• Post-dispersal seed predation is a critical factor influencing plant recruitment in fragmented ecosystems.
• Edge effects can significantly alter ecological processes, including seed predation, in habitat fragments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate artificial seed predation rates along an edge-gradient in Amazonian forest-savanna boundary.
• To determine if disturbance (fire vs. no fire) influences seed predation and edge effects.

Main Methods:

• Artificial seeds (peanuts) were deployed at varying distances from fragment edges in two distinct sites (fire-disturbed and undisturbed).
• Generalized linear models (GLMs) with likelihood ratio model selection were used to analyze predation data.
• Statistical analysis assessed the impact of edge distance, site, and their interaction on seed predation rates.

Main Results:

• A significant edge effect on seed predation was observed, with higher rates in fragment interiors.
• Disturbance (fire) appeared to alter the linearity of the edge effect on seed predation.
• Ants were commonly observed on seeds, suggesting their potential role as predators.

Conclusions:

• Post-dispersal seed predation exhibits an edge effect in Amazonian forest fragments, impacting plant recruitment.
• Disturbance regimes can modify the influence of edge effects on seed predation dynamics.
• Understanding seed predation patterns is crucial for effective reforestation strategies in fragmented landscapes.