Nucleation Processes in a Mediterranean Bird-Dispersed Plant

Abstract

1. The spatial distribution of Pistacia lentiscus, a Mediterranean bird-dispersed plant, in abandoned orchards was found to be strongly linked to the presence of trees or shrubs that act as perches. 2. These perches not only attract seed-disperser birds but also produce favourable microenvironmental conditions for seed germination and seedling establishment. 3. Soil moisture content after a rainfall was always greater beneath perches than not beneath perches. Favourable water potentials for seed germination were maintained for a longer time beneath a perch than elsewhere. 4. After a rainfall, soil was compacted faster where not beneath perches. Seedling radicle penetration into soil was strongly associated with soil compactation.