Effects of connectivity on seed dispersal patterns in hedgerows

Questions Habitat isolation is a major driver of biodiversity as it affects dispersal among local communities, especially for plants. Corridors are supposed to facilitate the movement organisms and hence their effective dispersal, thereby increasing biodiversity. Hedgerows provide favorable habitats forest plant establishment, but role in patches still unknown. In addition, seeds can be more predated within hedgerows animal also encouraged by these corridors. We testing following question: Are seed removal animals connected compared unconnected promoted species? Location Long Term Ecological Site “Zone Atelier Armorique”, Western France (ca. 150 km2) Methods analyzed along two pathways 16 woodlots, (least cost pathways, i.e., optimal corridors) high (absence corridor). Using trap study, we first quantified rain composition after trapped were germinated greenhouse. At same sampling points, then rate at which different sized removed from baits animals. Results Our results revealed no difference number did reveal richness viable seeds, corridors having positive impact. predation experiment, small was higher than pathways. Conclusion Connectivity enhanced species possibly played subsequent dispersal. This work highlighted effect connectivity on dynamics improves our understanding stepping stones patches.