Seed Dispersal by Wind

Studies of seed dispersal by wind on Barro Colorado Island (BCI) span 40 years. This historic review first explores “determinants” of dispersal potential, including wind conditions, diaspore (dispersal unit) traits (mass, area, aerodynamic category), and parent traits (tree height, crop size, deciduousness). Second, “patterns” of seed distributions that test predictions made in the “determinants” section are examined. “Patterns” are quantified first simply by measuring rate of descent of diaspores in still air; then by controlled experiments releasing diaspores from a tower on BCI; and, finally, by field quantifications, including measures of seed shadows, use of genetic markers to verify seed parentage, and development of inverse modeling of seeds in seed traps in mapped plots. The most recent approaches use mechanistic models to predict seed distributions arising from atmospheric complexities. Finally, the review turns to “consequences” of dispersal for subsequent life stages, including interactions with natural enemies and seedling regeneration.