Seed predation and potential dispersal of Ceratocaryum argenteum (Restionaceae) nuts by the striped mouse (Rhabdomys pumilio) / Joseph Douglas Mandla White

This study aimed to better understand the role of rodents as seed predators and dispersers in the fynbos biome at De Hoop Nature Reserve, South Africa in May and June, 2013. Based on previous studies I hypothesised that the large, nut-like seeds of Ceratocaryum argenteum (Restionaceae) are scatter-hoarded by rodents and that rodent seed choices and seed fates are affected by seed size and hull thickness. Field trials using three seed types showed that smaller seeds with a high reward and low processing cost were consumed significantly(p0.05), but further research should be conducted to determine if spooling of C. argenteum seeds influences rodent seed choice. Smaller seeds with a high-reward and low processing cost showed a significantly greater percentage of usage (p0.05) from the observed distances between nearest neighbour C.argenteum plants before discarding them on the soil. Additionally, the maximum distance R. pumilio moved C. argenteum seeds was commensurate with the maximum distance between nearest neighbour C. argenteum stands, so the end fate of the seeds remains unknown. Further research should account for seasonal variability in scatter-hoarding behaviour