Testing a highly replicable and standardized method to rapidly assess seed removal probabilities

摘要: Abstract Seed removal can result in either seed predation or dispersal and is therefore an indicator of important ecosystem functions. To better understand how these variable processes are affected by environmental changes, rapid reliable assessments with high temporal spatial replication needed. We address this need testing the application a function assessment (REFA) method to investigate habitats differing land use intensity. recorded hourly over eight hours at 301 sites five habitat types three urban regions Germany. calculated rates per sampling period, traditionally used studies, as well instantaneous probabilities based on sampling. Across regions, were lowest arable fields, type land-use Except sealed areas, temperature had negative effect removal. Additional Cox hazard regressions suggest invertebrates main removing animals whereas vertebrates likely removers other types. confirm that strongly negatively human disturbance, indicating tested appropriate different settings. able recognize patterns highly data also has advantages low cost, resolution. However, there trade-off between temporal-resolution effort, but adjustments standardized setup be made depending study. further utilize extensive collection REFA method, we propose combine probabilities, provide complementary information extent indications about potential guilds. Keywords: predation, dispersal, removal, granivore,