Functional Traits Shape Seed-Rodent Interactions in a Subtropical Forest: Insights From Individual-Based Tracking...

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Forest Ecosystems
• Plant-Animal Interactions

Background:

• Plant-animal interactions, especially seed-rodent systems, are crucial for forest ecosystems.
• Traditional methods lack precision in tracking individual seed fates and interactions.
• Understanding these dynamics is vital for forest structure and function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate seed fates in a subtropical forest using a novel tracking technique.
• To determine how rodent and seed size influence interactions in a multispecies system.
• To disentangle complex seed-rodent interactions and their ecological consequences.

Main Methods:

• Application of a novel double-duplex passive integrated transponder (PIT) tagging technique.
• Tracking of seeds from four sympatric tree species exploited by two sympatric rodent species.
• Data collection in a subtropical forest in Southwest China from 2018 to 2019.

Main Results:

• Rodent body size and seed size were key determinants of seed fates.
• The larger rat (Niviventer confucianus) preferred larger seeds and consumed/hoarded all types.
• The smaller mouse (Apodemus draco) preferred smaller seeds and avoided larger ones, with varying pilfering rates observed.

Conclusions:

• Size traits significantly shape mutualistic and predatory interactions in seed-rodent systems.
• Individual-based tracking is effective in resolving complex species interactions.
• Findings enhance understanding of forest ecosystem dynamics and seed dispersal.