Weed seed predation, an ecological service to preserve and promote

Abstract

Baraibar, B., (2013). Weed seed predation, an ecological service to preserve and promote. Ecosistemas 22(1):62-66.Doi.: 10.7818/ECOS.2013.22-1.11

Weed seed predation is a clear example of how conservation of biodiversity in agro-ecosystems can benefit the farmers at the same time that increases the sustainability of the system. Rodents, birds and insects have been described as the most abundant seed predators and those who consume more weed seeds. Therefore, they are likely to have a large impact on weed populations control within the crops. In fact, some studies have estimated that seed predators can remove between 26 and 83% of the weed seeds produced yearly. In contrast to natural systems, agro-ecosystems are disturbed habitats where management plays a major role in determining the degree of biodiversity present and its functionality. This article reviews the role that tillage, soil cover and landscape complexity can have on the populations of weed seed predators and their predation rates. It also outlines some strategies to preserve this ecosystem service in order to decrease reliance on herbicides for weed management.