Chasing the unknown: predicting seed dispersal mechanisms from plant traits

摘要: Summary 1. The dispersal capabilities of most plant species remain unknown. However, gaining basic information is a critical step for understanding species’ geographical distributions and predicting the likely impacts future climate change. Dispersal mechanisms can indicate short- or long-distance dispersers, highlight important biological interactions. 2. To predict where limited, we used generalized linear mixed models with life-history ecological traits. Sets were created (using Australian species) six categories: wind, unassisted, water, ant, vertebrate-ingestion vertebrate-attachment mechanisms. We validated our on 50 Australian, 30 Californian, Swiss global compilation 70 species. 3. Growth form, seed mass vegetation type main predictor variables. Our predicted Californian equally well (c. 70% correct) to lesser extent flora 50% correct). observed inferred (based morphology). 4. Synthesis. approach using easily obtainable traits allows be little known. From here, application realistic curves will further species.