Unpredictable seed-set: a defence mechanism against seed-eating insects inProtea species (Proteaceae).
Extent of pre-dispersal seed destruction by insects and seed survival were measured for variousProtea species (Proteaceae) and related to seed-set, variation in seed-set, the percentage of barren infructescences and infructescence age. The hypothesis that low and variable seed-set would act as a defence mechanism against insect seed predators was tested. Results indicated that seed survival and variation in seed-set were highly positively correlated, while seed survival and seed-set were negatively correlated. Variation in seed-set was identified as the most important determinant of seed survival for the range ofProtea species studied.
Vegetable and Ornamental Plant Institute, Agricultural Research Council, Private Bag, 7607, Elsenburg, South Africa.
M G
MG
Wright
Insects; Protea; Seed predators; Seed-set; Variability