Frugivorous Bird Guild Seasonal Patterns in Semiarid Chaco Forests are Linked to Habitat Seasonality but Reveal Phylogenetic Signature

Abstract

Aims: This work aims to explain seasonal changes in frugivorous bird species richness, abundance and diversity, addressing climatic and habitat variables (rainfall, Photosynthetically Active Radiation as PPDF) and species trait factors (diet), while considering the effect of phylogenetic constraints. Place and Duration of Study: Forest Reserve of Chancan, Crdoba Province, Argentina (31 2' S and 65 25' W), during 1995-1996. Methodology: In the study area two randomly located sampling points separated each other by two km were established. Phenological records for seven forest plant species producing fruits were taken monthly, along with habitat and climatic variables (PPDF, rainfall). Bird sampling was done