Abstract
Invertebrates can influence vegetation development through modification of primary productivity, gene flow, and nutrient cycling. Invertebrate consumption of leaves, twigs, bark, and wood can reduce primary productivity. Selective consumption of these organs, selective seed predation, and selective pollination can alter the species composition of the vegetation. Invertebrate activities in detritus decomposition influence the pattern and rates of nutrient cycling.
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Haines, B. (1975). Impact of Leaf-Cutting Ants on Vegetation Development at Barro Colorado Island. In: Golley, F.B., Medina, E. (eds) Tropical Ecological Systems. Ecological Studies, vol 11. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-88533-4_8
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-88533-4_8
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