Seedling survival and seed size: a synthesis of the literature

Summary Large‐seeded species have long been known to have higher survivorship during establishment than small‐seeded species. Here, we assessed the size of this advantage by compiling published data on survival through seedling emergence, seedling establishment and sapling establishment. We found no relationship between seed mass and survival through the transition from viable seed in or on the soil to newly emerged seedlings ( P = 0.47, n = 33 species). Synthesis of data from experimental studies on the advantages of large‐seeded species establishing under particular hazards (such as shade, drought or herbivory) confirmed that seedlings of large‐seeded species perform better than those of small‐seeded species…

• NS
  National Science Foundation

  Award: DEB-94-21535
• MU
  Macquarie University