Subproject

E11 - Human impact on avian diversity, seed dispersal and regeneration processes of East African rainforests: management tools and recommendations

Workpackage

WP2: Management for high genetic diversity in Prunus africana: seed dispersers vs. pollinators

Project leader(s)

Prof. Dr. Katrin Böhning-Gaese
Dr. Matthias Schleuning
Dr. Nina Farwig
Dana Berens

Project description

We investigate whether the decrease in genetic diversity of Prunus africana in Kakamega Forest is caused by limited gene flow through pollen and/or seeds. Previous studies have revealed that human impact has reduced genetic diversity of the endangered and commercially important tree P. africana which can be due to reduced gene flow through pollen and/or seeds. For this reason, we want to measure the pollen and seed dispersal distances between father (pollen donor), mother (seed donor) and established seedlings in the face of human disturbance. We will test whether pollen or seed transport limit populations of P. africana more strongly. The results will be used to develop management recommendations for maintaining high genetic diversity in the remaining populations of this species.

Keywords

Genetic diversity; pollination; Prunus africana; seed dispersal

Contribution to
cross-cutting themes (CCT)

• Monitoring and assessment of biodiversity in space and time (Theme1)
• Understanding natural processes of change (Theme2)
• Understanding human use, value and impact in space and time (Theme3)
• Recommendations and measures for sustainable use of biodiversity (Theme4)

Link to Subproject