Seed coating as an anti-predation strategy: modulating seed predation by wildlife in Sierra Nevada
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62059/LatArXiv.preprints.524Keywords:
diatomaceus earth, germination, seed coating, seed predation, Raphanus sativus, Sierra nevadaAbstract
Seed predation is an essential ecological filter that influences the success of ecological restoration through direct seeding. In this study, an experimental evaluation of the effect of various seed coatings on the removal rate of Raphanus sativus (radish) was carried out. Sampling was carried out in the Sierra Nevada Natural Park, through the strategic placement of ten monitoring stations, each provided with thirty seeds, categorised into three groups: ten bare seeds (control), ten seeds pelleted with diatomaceous earth, and ten seeds pelleted with goat excrement. Over a period of 27 days, a daily record was kept of the number of seeds removed per station and treatment. The results obtained in this study indicate significant differences in the removal rate between treatments, suggesting that the use of coatings may influence predator rejection. Controlled germination tests were implemented to evaluate the impact of each treatment.
This approach has practical implications for ecological restoration projects, agriculture, and direct seeding.
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Tabla de remoción de semillas
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