Plant dispersal syndromes are unreliable, especially for predicting zoochory and long?distance dispersal

Plant dispersal syndromes are allocated based on diaspore morphology and used to predict the dominant mechanisms of dispersal. Many authors assume that only angiosperms with endozoochory, epizoochory or anemochory have a long-distance (LDD) mechanism. Too much faith is often placed in classical explain historical events future ones. What usually recorded as ‘endozoochory syndrome' reality ‘frugivory this has diverted attention from endozoochory by non-frugivores (e.g. waterbirds large herbivores) disperse broad range angiosperms, for which they likely provide maximum distances. Neither nor helpful predictions plants disperse, We combined data previous studies show 4% European plant species dispersed ungulate belong corresponding syndrome, compared 36% 8% migratory ducks. In contrast, proportions these assigned an ‘unassisted 37, 31 28%, respectively. Since do not adequately account zoochory, empirical fail find expected relationship between LDD such those underlying colonization islands latitudinal migration rates. need full incorporation existing zoochory into databases, more research traits frequency effectiveness different (paying unexpected vectors). Acknowledging role facilitating crucial improve consequences global change, how distributions respond climate alien spread. Networks interactions vertebrates vital but understudied part Web Life.