Life history traits influence the strength of distance- and density-dependence at different life stages of two Amazonian palms.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

Natural enemies are known to be important in regulating plant populations and contributing to species coexistence (Janzen-Connell effects). The strength of Janzen-Connell effects (both distance- and density-effects) varies across species, but the life history traits that may mediate such a variation are not well understood. This study examined Janzen-Connell effects across the life stages (seed through adult stages) of two sympatric palm species with distinct phenologies and shade tolerances, two traits that may mediate the strength and timing of Janzen-Connell effects.

Methods

Populations of two common palm species, Attalea phalerata and Astrocaryum murumuru , were studied in Manu National Park, Peru. Seed predation experiments were conducted to assess J

SUBMITTER: Choo J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5737847 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature