Urbanization of seed dispersal networks.

ABSTRACT: Rapid urban expansion is affecting the composition of wild communities and creating novel ecosystems worldwide. Seed dispersal is key for ecosystem persistence, particularly in fragmented landscapes. However, generalizations regarding the impacts of urbanization are still difficult due to the lack of studies encompassing the urban matrix. We examined the seed dispersal networks in natural forests and urban areas in Tenerife Island to explore the effects of urbanization on seed dispersal. For 1 year, we observed frugivory events and identified seeds in animal feces in natural forests and urban areas of the island. We also conducted transect surveys in each area to assess the abundance of fleshy fruits and frugivorous animals. We identified 150 interactions between 83 plant and 18 animal spe

SUBMITTER: Mendes SB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12658926 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature