Antagonistic effects of frugivores on seeds of Cryptocarya alba (Mol.) Looser (Lauraceae): consequences on seedling recruitment

Abstract

Frugivores affect Cryptocarya alba seeds both positively and negatively by the simple act of removing the pericarp of the fruits. Germination is both increased and advanced but simultaneously seed mortality by rodent predation is increased as well. The net effect of frugivores on germination is zero while in terms of seedling recruitment, it is positive. The ecological conditions for a mutualistic interaction between frugivores and C. alba are fulfilled. -Authors