Factors influencing diaspore removal

Abstract

In the previous chapter, it was demonstrated that diaspores of five myrmecochorous species have different attractiveness to ants of particular species and, therefore, different removal rates. Factors, such as diaspore size, or the presence and size of elaiosome or diaspore body, may effect diaspore attractiveness. In this chapter, we analyse further characters of the myrmecochorous syndrome. Data from literature and original experimental results are combined here to show the role of other factors, such as diaspore contents and diaspore aggregation in the depot for ant attraction and diaspore removal.