ISSN:
1440-1703
Keywords:
ants
;
Formica polyctena
;
myrmecochory
;
seed aggregation
;
seed dispersal
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
In a field dominated by Formica polyctena Foerst. ants, we examined the effect of seed aggregation on the seed-removal rates of two plant species: a large-seeded obligate myrmecochore Viola odorata L. and a small-seeded diplochore Chelidonium majus L., which was autochorous as well as myrmecochorous. The effect was statistically non-significant in V. odorata but significant in C. majus, with more closely aggregated seeds having higher removal rates. The large seeds of the obligate myrmecochore were more quickly discovered and repeatedly removed by ant workers than were the small seeds of the diplochore.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1046/j.1440-1703.2000.00338.x
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