Find me if you can: how to track animal-dispersed tree seeds?

Abstract

Synzoochory, the dispersal of seeds by animals provided through caching, plays a crucial role in ecosystem functioning. In this article, I presented three methods for tracking seeds dispersed synzoochorically by small rodents (marking with tags and fluorescent powder) and birds (radiotelemetry). I discussed the main advantages and disadvantages of these methods, considering the groups of seed-dispersing animals and research goals. I also demonstrated that it is important to consider habitat structure and other factors that may affect seed retrieval by researchers. Choosing the appropriate seed tracking technique is crucial for obtaining reliable results in studies on plant dispersal and ecosystem functioning.