Incorporating the effects of generalist seed predators into plant community theory

Loralee Larios; Dean E. Pearson; John L. Maron

doi:10.1111/1365-2435.12905

Treesearch

Incorporating the effects of generalist seed predators into plant community theory

Formally Refereed

Authors:

Loralee Larios, Dean E. Pearson, John L. Maron

Year:

2017

Type:

Scientific Journal

Station:

Rocky Mountain Research Station

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1111/1365-2435.12905

Source:

Functional Ecology. 31: 1856-1867.

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Abstract

Post-dispersal seed predators contribute substantially to seed loss across many ecosystems. Most research has focused on understanding sources of variation in seed loss, without appreciating the implications of seed predation for plant coexistence, community assembly and broader community theory. Meanwhile, research aimed at understanding coexistence and community assembly processes in plant communities has focused on axes of dispersal and resource competition and the traits influencing these processes, without accounting for the role of generalist seed predators.

Keywords

biotic resistance, coexistence, generalist seed predators, plant recruitment, plantherbivore interactions, post-dispersal seed predation, seed size, trait-based community assembly

Citation

Larios, Loralee; Pearson, Dean E.; Maron, John L. 2017. Incorporating the effects of generalist seed predators into plant community theory. Functional Ecology. 31: 1856-1867.