Bet‐hedging and germination in the Australian arid zone shrub Acacia ligulata

摘要: The diaspore of the Australian arid zone shrub Acacia ligulata is dispersed by birds and ants. To investigate benefits providing a dispersal structure attractive to both groups, we compared germination response viability seeds eaten birds, handled ants or collected from trees simulated precursors germination: scarification, fire rainfall were simulated. Seed related degree preheating disturbance seed coat. Heating increased germinability not scarified birds. In absence heating, ingestion germinability. mortality seeds. Our results suggest that may break dormancy hence enable some germinate soon after dispersal. Alternatively, are likely remain dormant until sufficiently soil stimulated fire. Consequently, in areas such as Simpson Desert, A. be able use range seedling establishment ‘windows’ provided monsoon rains, post-fire environments unseasonal winter also spread risk unsuccessful retaining seedbank.