Dissertation Overview
The hypothesis underlying my dissertation is based on three principles:
resource pulses initiate resource tracking behavior in consumers
resource pulses are often generated by disturbance
disturbances create favorable conditions for plant establishment
Based on these principles, I hypothesize that animal-mediated seed dispersal coupled with disturbance is an important determinant of vegetation assemblages. Specifically, I am exploring this phenomenon through the lens of two common disturbances: fire and death. Because such disturbances are common occurrences in many systems, this research will redefine the advantages of dispersal in diffuse plant-animal mutualisms and provide key insights for habitat management techniques that manipulate disturbance to regenerate plants.
