Does Forest Fragmentation and Selective Logging Affect Seed Predators and Seed Predation Rates of Prunus africana (Rosaceae)

摘要: Forest fragmentation and selective logging can influence the life cycle of tropical tree species at several levels, e.g., by lowering pollination, limiting seed dispersal, increasing predation. Understanding human-induced modifications in ecosystem processes such as predation is essential for conservation management threatened species. We studied impact forest on endangered Prunus africana rain Kakamega, Kenya. quantified activity predators main forest, fragments, sites different intensity dry rainy seasons 2003 2006. Further, we performed experiments with single groups P. seeds same sites. recorded a tendency toward higher compared to fragmented Single seeds, contrast had marginally significantly rates intensively logged moderately Overall, showed little relationship predator were highly variable among years seasons. Additional studies seedling establishment survival are needed predict whether able maintain sustainable populations Kakamega Forest. Only studying all it possible develop sound strategies