Differential Primary Seed and Fruit Dispersal Mechanisms and Dispersal Biomechanics in Invasive Dehiscent and Indehiscent-Fruited Species

This study explores primary dispersal, which involves diaspores' detachment directly from mature plants, and secondary dispersal, which encompasses any further dispersal occurring after the primary dispersal. A comparison of the primary dispersal vectors of the invasive dehiscent fruit producing and the indehiscent fruit producing was conducted. These vectors were examined in relation to the native and introduced distribution ranges of the species, and regarding biomechanical forces required detaching the fruits from mature plants. Our findings reveal that rainfall and animal contact serve as primary dispersal vectors for , while animal contact is rarely involved in primary dispersal of . Primary dispersal is more important for than , which requires significantly greater force for fruit detachment. While previous studies indicate wind and rainfall as major secondary dispersal vectors for , our results suggest secondary dispersal via mucilage on seeds is more crucial for this species. The strong reliance of on secondary dispersal, enabling long-distance dispersal, could contribute to its invasion success, linking it to the species' geographic distribution. Understanding these different dispersal strategies is essential for effective management of invasive species.