Partitioning intraspecific variation in seed dispersal potential using a low‐cost method for rapid estimation of samara terminal velocity

摘要: 1. Seed or samara terminal velocity is a key trait affecting the dispersal potential of wind-dispersed plants. However, this often represented in models by single mean value per species. This despite considerable variation traits within species and individuals that may have implications for both phenotypic selection rates spread. Methodological constraints acted as barrier robust assessments intraspecific seed velocity. 2. To quantify wind traits, we develop low-cost, time-efficient method to measure large number samaras. We made three separate measurements each 750 Pinus radiata samaras, allowing partitioning among individual cones, trees, source populations. use mechanistic WALD model assess influence observed on predicted kernels under variety realistic conditions. 3. We demonstrate two-fold range P. radiata, with highest occurring lowest cones trees. identify population Our modelling results within-species sufficient affect shape kernels, particularly kernel tails therefore likelihood long-distance events. The effect especially pronounced environmental conditions enhance dispersal. 4. Our findings illustrate scale trait, likely distance. suggest high level reduce selection, either be indicative ‘bet-hedging’ strategy, simply result cone morphology development. To obtain accurate highlight necessity capturing inclusion future approaches, describe device can achieve such easily at low cost.