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Data from: Linking disperser traits and habitat quality to seed dispersal effectiveness

Ramananjato, Veronarindra12; Rabarijaonina, Tanjoniaina H. N. P.3; Kava, Ginot3; Rakotoarisoa, Sidonie O.3; Rakotondrasoa, Gaëtan M.3; Andriatiavina, Tsinjo S. A.3; Randimbiarison, Finaritra13; Razafindratsima, Onja H.12

Research facility: Ranomafana National Park, Madagascar
Published Mar 31, 2026 on Dryad. https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.59zw3r2ph

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Abstract

Animal-mediated seed dispersal is a biotic interaction at risk of disruption because of the alarming decline of seed-dispersing animal populations as a result of habitat transformation. However, a cessation of seed dispersal can be masked by the continuous presence of seed dispersers in an ecosystem. Here, we assess how changes in the population and body size of a small-bodied seed disperser (brown mouse lemur, Microcebus rufus) and three habitat types in Madagascar's rainforest landscape affect its seed dispersal effectiveness. We calculated population size and body mass from monthly capture-release and systematic measurements of 815 individuals captured from 2021 to 2024. We collected 285 fecal samples from captured individuals to calculate the diversity, number, and size of 1641 defecated seeds. In addition, we conducted germination experiments on 1035 defecated seeds. We found a significant positive association between the diversity and germination time of dispersed seeds and M. rufus' population size and habitat types. We also found similar results for the number of dispersed seeds with M. rufus' population and body size and seasons. Our findings show that M. rufus provide seed dispersal services with fluctuating effectiveness depending on its population and body size, as well as habitat types and seasons. Such results highlight the importance of protecting the animal dispersers populations to promote the persistence of ecological services and support the ecosystem's resilience.