Influence of leaf-cutting ants (Atta mexicana) on performance and dispersion patterns of perennial desert shrubs in an inter-tropical region of Central Mexico.

摘要: Abstract The influence of defoliation by leaf-cutting ants (Atta mexicana) on the dispersion patterns xerophytic shrubs in semi-arid valley Zapotitlan, Mexico was analysed. All and ant nest entrances were mapped a 65×50 m stand, vigour each individual shrub estimated. A regression analysis between distance to nearest plants showed significant relationship for Acacia constricta, Castela tortuosa,Echinopteryx eglandulosa Mimosa luisana, revealing higher as increases. point pattern clear clumped latter three species, plus Prosopis laevigata; whereasAcacia constricta Cercidium praecox, well entrances, did not show any significantly different from chance. bivariate expected repulsion among entrances. According an auto-correlation analysis, individuals luisana forming dense clusters away nests values than those with inter-individual distances closer Although unveiling ecological implications ant–shrub shrub–shrub interactions demands detailed experimental approach, our results reveal importance herbivory structuring natural communities.