Anthropogenic forests simplify seed- but not pollen-dispersal networks

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Conservation Biology
• Forest Science

Background:

• Natural forests are increasingly replaced by anthropogenic forests, often invaded by alien species like Acacia dealbata.
• Eucalyptus globulus plantations are common, but their ecological functioning, including seed and pollen dispersal, is poorly understood.
• Poor forestry practices can exacerbate invasive species expansion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare bird abundance, richness, and seed/pollen dispersal networks in natural versus anthropogenic forests.
• To assess the impact of forest type on avian-mediated ecological services.
• To understand the implications for forest regeneration.

Main Methods:

• Field study comparing bird communities in natural and Eucalyptus-dominated anthropogenic forests in Portugal.
• Analysis of seed and pollen dispersal networks based on bird observations.
• Quantification of bird abundance and species richness.

Main Results:

• Anthropogenic forests showed lower bird abundance and richness.
• Seed dispersal networks in anthropogenic forests were smaller, simpler, and more random.
• Pollen dispersal networks were more similar between forest types, dominated by generalist birds.

Conclusions:

• Anthropogenic forests negatively impact bird communities and seed dispersal services.
• Changes in bird-mediated dispersal affect forest regeneration potential.
• Forest management practices need to consider ecological services for sustainable outcomes.