Conservation and Restoration of Plant-Animal Mutualisms on Oceanic Islands

Authors:
Kaiser-Bunbury, C.N., A. Traveset and D.M. Hansen

Publication Date:
2010

Abstract/Summary:
We highlight past and present threats to island plant–animal mutualisms, as well as the challenges and opportunities inherent to these interactions. In particular, we (1) argue that mutualistic networks provide an ideal approach to collect information and advance our knowledge on the systems, (2) suggest the use of interactions as biodiversity monitoring and assessment tools, (3) highlight the differences and similarities between pollination and seed dispersal interactions in the context of restoration, and (4) briefly discuss the ambiguous role of alien invasive species in the management of mutualistic interactions. Finally, we highlight how a recently proposed but controversial restoration strategy, rewilding, can be gainfully applied to and further advanced in island settings.

Resource Type:
Peer-reviewed Article

Source:
Perspectives in Plant Ecology, Evolution and Systematics

Link:
http://www.torreyaguardians.org/articles/kaiser-bunbury2010.pdf