Spatial structure of ant-gardens: vertical distribution on host trees and succession/segregation of associated vascular epiphytes

摘要

QuestionsAnt-gardens (AGs) involve a close association between epiphytes and ants with concurrent mutualistic interactions including protection, dispersal and nutrition; however, little is known about the spatial structure patterns that determine their establishment and formation. Our main questions were: (1) do AGs have a particular pattern of vertical distribution on their host trees; (2) does a process of succession of epiphytes occur during development of AGs; and (3) are epiphytes segregated in AGs?