Traits for transport: Alien wetland plants gain an advantage during endozoochorous seed dispersal by waterfowl

Abstract The expansion of alien plant species is global concern, yet our understanding their dispersal mechanisms limited. Here we address the potential seeds to disperse via ingestion, transport and egestion in waterfowl (endozoochory). Based on general rapid expansions, expected have several advantages for endozoochory compared native species. We hypothesised that would higher passage rate, longer gut retention times, germinability after shorter time‐to‐germination by waterfowl. In order test hypotheses, endozoochorous ability six pairs congeneric wetland a feeding experiment with mallards ( Anas platyrhynchos ). focused differences seed survival, time, time‐to‐germination. analyses corrected shape volume as these traits are known important effects. With passage, had rates germinated slower, whereas times greater germinability. Controlling did not alter conclusions, but affected all aspects process. This suggests may particular correlated potential. Among control seeds, faster was than natives. Seed explained seeds. Seeds correlate successful endozoochory. provide competitive advantage over ensuring new environments, potentially enabling expansions. Our study underlines role species, notably through influence time germination.