Effects of forest disturbance on fruit set, seed dispersal and predation of Rudraksh (Elaeocarpus ganitrus Roxb.) in northeast India

摘要: Tropical wet evergreen forests of Arunachal Pradesh, in northeast India are being modified and degraded due to increased anthropogenic pressure. Natural populations Elaeocarpus ganitrus Roxb. (Elaeocarpaceae) threatened household industrial uses. regeneration is scarce, partly extensive harvesting the tubercled nuts for use jewellery. Effects disturbance on natural poorly understood. We studied impact E. demography by monitoring flowering, fruiting seed dispersal during three consecutive years at four sites that varied degree disturbance. Pollination rate reproductive individuals significantly between years, but with tree diameter. Fruit production differed among sites, was highest moderately disturbed forest lowest undisturbed forest. Mean fruit weight decreased increasing About 40-70% total fruits produced removed fruit-fall period, mainly arboreal frugivores seed-hoarding rodents. After most (55-99%) remaining also disappeared, while rates index. No seeds were found be germinated. In general, about 80% disappeared from floor or damaged severely insects, especially ants termites. The proportion disappearing distance parent tree. Ripe intact exocarp more frequently than both unripe exocarp, nuts. nut bank soil surface More 85% predated. findings set may have great implications species.