Karmactive Staff
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University of Coimbra's research has concluded that Europe is facing a "worrying seed dispersal crisis" due to the declining populations of animals that transport seeds by feeding on fleshy fruits.
About one-third of the 398 identified seed-dispersing species are threatened with extinction, including animals like the wild rabbit, blackcap, and European bison, as well as reptiles and ants.
The research reviewed approximately 2,000 articles published from 1660 to 2023 in various languages to assess the conservation status of seed-dispersing animals and their relationships with native plant species.
The research showed that loss of seed dispersal function could jeopardize ecosystem resilience, especially as species migrate due to climate shifts.
The study identified 5,030 interactions between the 398 animals and the 592 plants.
Among the 2,248 species of seed-bearing plants in Europe, only 398 animals were found to disperse 592 plant species, leaving a significant number of plants without identified dispersers.
Around 33% of disperser species are of "high concern," with a significant percentage of plant species also falling into high concern categories.
The study is first of its kind examining the vulnerability of seed-dispersing species.
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