Do birds of a feather disperse plants together

摘要: Summary 1. Dispersal of propagules by waterbirds is thought to be important for wetland plants because the abundance birds and their frequent movements among aquatic habitats. Differences in bird characteristics (size, movement, feeding ecology) were expected lead different outcomes plant dispersal. 2. We investigated heterogeneity dispersal ducks (Anas superciliosa, Anas gracilis, castanea). We calculated probability transport viable seeds germinating retrieved from feathers feet (epizoochory) contents oesophagus, gizzard lower gut (endozoochory). 3. The richness carried internally externally did not differ sympatric species. used estimates literature species approximate kernels propagules. 4. Heterogeneity movement ecology disperser will result differing patterns degrees connectivity metacommunities. Sedentary waterfowl are likely have an role replenishing connecting metacommunities over small distances. Nomadic may facilitate long-distance dispersal. discuss implications differences between duck across landscapes.