Consequences of frugivore-mediated seed dispersal for the spatial and genetic structures of a neotropical palm

The idiosyncratic behaviors of seed dispersers are important contributors to plant spatial associations and genetic structures. In this study, we used a combination of field, molecular, and spatial studies to examine the connections between seed dispersal and the spatial and genetic structures of a dominant neotropical palm Attalea phalerata. Field observation and genetic parentage analysis both indicated that the majority of A. phalerata seeds were dispersed locally over short-distances (< 30 m from the maternal tree). Spatial and genetic structures between adults and seedlings were consistent with localized and short-distance seed dispersal. Dispersal contributed to spatial associations among maternal sibling seedlings and strong spatial and genetic structures in both seedlings dispersed near (<10 m) and away (>10 m) from maternal palms. Seedlings were also spatially aggregated with juveniles. These patterns are likely associated with the dispersal of seeds by rodents and the...