Mechanisms of long-distance dispersal of seeds by wind

Ran Nathan (), Gabriel G. Katul, Henry S. Horn, Suvi M. Thomas, Ram Oren, Roni Avissar, Stephen W. Pacala and Simon A. Levin
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Ran Nathan: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev
Gabriel G. Katul: Nicholas School of the Environment and Earth Sciences, Duke University
Henry S. Horn: Princeton University
Suvi M. Thomas: Princeton University
Ram Oren: Nicholas School of the Environment and Earth Sciences, Duke University
Roni Avissar: Duke University
Stephen W. Pacala: Princeton University
Simon A. Levin: Princeton University

Nature, 2002, vol. 418, issue 6896, 409-413

Abstract: Abstract Long-distance dispersal (LDD) is central to species expansion following climate change, re-colonization of disturbed areas and control of pests1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8. The current paradigm is that the frequency and spatial extent of LDD events are extremely difficult to predict9,10,11,12. Here we show that mechanistic models coupling seed release and aerodynamics with turbulent transport processes provide accurate probabilistic descriptions of LDD of seeds by wind. The proposed model reliably predicts the vertical distribution of dispersed seeds of five tree species observed along a 45-m high tower in an eastern US deciduous forest. Simulations show that uplifting above the forest canopy is necessary and sufficient for LDD, hence, they provide the means to define LDD quantitatively rather than arbitrarily. Seed uplifting probability thus sets an upper bound on the probability of long-distance colonization. Uplifted yellow poplar seeds are on average lighter than seeds at the forest floor, but also include the heaviest seeds. Because uplifting probabilities are appreciable (as much as 1–5%), and tree seed crops are commonly massive, some LDD events will establish individuals that can critically affect plant dynamics on large scales.

Date: 2002
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DOI: 10.1038/nature00844

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