Divergent seed dispersal outcomes: Interactions between seed, disperser, and forest traits

Research in the Dja Faunal Reserve, Cameroon, reveals that duikers—African forest antelopes—differentially disperse seeds based on size and toughness, with smaller seeds (<3 mm) primarily dispersed via defecation and larger, tougher seeds (>10 mm) regurgitated. This process, particularly regurgitation at nesting sites, significantly influences seed deposition in dense understory habitats dominated by lianas, palms, and fallen trees. The study found that nocturnal bay duikers (Cephalophus dorsalis) deposit larger seeds 3-4 times more frequently than other species due to their nesting habits. These findings underscore the critical yet understudied role of regurgitation in seed dispersal, with potential implications for forest succession and structure worldwide.

Dehaudt, B., Bruce, T., Deblauwe, V., Ferraz, A., Gardner, B., Bibila, T. G. ’., LeBreton, M., Mempong, G., Njabo, K., Nkengbeza, S. N., Ordway, E. M., Pavan, L., Russo, N. J., Smith, T. B., & Luskin, M. S. (2024). Divergent seed dispersal outcomes: Interactions between seed, disperser, and forest traits. Ecology, 105(10). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/ecy.4409