Frugivory enhances germination and dispersal of Kashmir elder

Sambucus wightiana (Kashmir Elder) is a widespread, clonal subshrub found throughout the forests of the Kashmir Valley and other parts of the Northwestern Himalayas. The widespread distribution and reportedly high genetic diversity of this clonal species, despite its limited seed germination, are intriguing. We conducted field surveys during the fruiting season and found animal droppings containing S. wightiana seeds, indicating frugivory in this plant species. We recovered a large number of viable seeds from the animal droppings and performed a germination experiment and microscopic studies comparing wild seeds and those obtained from animal droppings. There were significant differences in both the percentage and speed of germination. Gut-passed seeds exhibited higher germination rates, quicker germination, and better seedling survival. Microscopic examination revealed pronounced surface erosion, pitting, and scarification patterns in gut-passed seeds.