Data from: Effects of the control of an invasive tree on the structure of a plant-frugivore network

Invasive non-native species are one of the main causes of degradation of
ecosystems worldwide. The control of invasive species is key to reduce
threats to ecosystem viability in the long-term. Observations of
structural changes in ecological interaction networks following invasive
species suppression can be useful to monitor the success of ecological
restoration initiatives. We evaluated the structure of plant-bird
frugivory interaction networks in a plant community invaded by the guava
tree (Psidium guajava L.) by comparing network metrics before and after
control actions. Psidium guajava was relevant in all metrics for the
unmanaged network in this study, with high degree centrality and high
nestedness contribution. Based on the asymmetry of species interactions,
we found that birds were highly dependent on the invasive plant before
suppression. Once P. guajava trees were eliminated, bird and plant species
richness, total number of interactions, and modularity increased, whereas
nestedness and interaction strength asymmetry decreased. The diet of the
bird community became more diversified once P.
guajava was no longer available and relevant species roles in
community structure emerged. Our results corroborate the fact that
ecological restoration interventions should include the control of
non-native plant species that attract frugivorous animals in order to
diversify plant-frugivore interactions and thus maintain biodiversity in
natural ecosystems.