Frugivore-Mediated Selection in A Habitat Transformation Scenario.

ABSTRACT: Plant-animal interactions are strong drivers of phenotypic evolution. However, the extent to which anthropogenic habitat transformation creates new selective scenarios for plant-animal interactions is a little explored subject. We examined the effects of native forest replacement by exotic Eucalyptus trees on the frugivore-mediated phenotypic selection coefficients imposed by the relict marsupial Dromiciops gliroides upon traits involved in frugivore attraction and germination success of the mistletoe Tristerix corymbosus (Loranthaceae). We found significant gradients for seed weight and sugar content along the native - transformed habitat gradient. While selection for larger seed weight was more relevant in native habitats, fruits with intermediate sugar content were promoted in transform

SUBMITTER: Fonturbel FE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5368566 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature