Do large-seeded herbs have a small range size? The seed mass-distribution range trade-off hypothesis.

ABSTRACT: We aimed to introduce and test the "seed mass-distribution range trade-off" hypothesis, that is, that range size is negatively related to seed mass due to the generally better dispersal ability of smaller seeds. Studying the effects of environmental factors on the seed mass and range size of species, we also aimed to identify habitats where species may be at risk and need extra conservation effort to avoid local extinctions. We collected data for seed mass, global range size, and indicators for environmental factors of the habitat for 1,600 species of the Pannonian Ecoregion (Central Europe) from the literature. We tested the relationship between species' seed mass, range size, and indicator values for soil moisture, light intensity, and nutrient supply. We found that seed mass is negative

SUBMITTER: Sonkoly J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5743478 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature