Seeding success: Integrating seed dispersal networks in tropical forest restoration

While the reassembly of fruit-frugivore interactions remains at the forefront of tropical forest restoration, seed dispersal networks emerge as a potential approach to enhance restoration success. This review explores the integration of seed dispersal networks in tropical forest restoration, with the aims of (1) synthesizing important findings in the literature, (2) detailing potential biases in utilizing network theory, and (3) addressing current knowledge gaps and future directions for the field. We first highlight the importance of combining phytocentric and zoocentric approaches when sampling for seed dispersal interactions, as different methodologies have varying effects on network measures, and combining approaches can foster a more comprehensive understanding of dispersal interactions. Furthermore, when integrating seed dispersal networks into restoration goals, we suggest a highly connected and species-rich network is desirable for earlier stages of forest succession where community turnover and transient interactions are pivotal. Nested patterns may emerge throughout varying stages of forest succession, and identifying generalist species that make up nested patterns may be useful for restoration practitioners in both early and later stages of forest regeneration. Modularity should be highest at later stages of succession to maintain community structure and stability, and connector species may play important roles in facilitating seed dispersal across temporal scales. Finally, we emphasize the importance of site-specific long-term datasets, chronosequences, and studies at large spatial scales to continue to understand network reassembly as a function of tropical forest succession and to develop effective strategies that enhance the recovery of tropical forest ecosystems. This review explores the potential of integrating seed dispersal networks in tropical forest restoration to enhance restoration outcomes. Combining zoocentric and phytocentric approaches when sampling for seed dispersal interactions can yield larger networks and foster a more comprehensive understanding of dispersal interactions. Identifying the functional traits of generalist species that contribute to nested patterns in seed dispersal networks may be useful for restoration practitioners focusing on species reintroductions or active restoration planting efforts. Through stages of forest succession, a highly connected and species-rich network is desirable for earlier stages of succession, while modularity and specialization should be highest at later successional stages. image