How do birds help disperse the seeds of Myrtaceae and Melastomataceae berries?

Birds play a vital role in the seed dispersal of various plants within the order Myrtales, particularly those that produce fleshy fruits.

For members of the Myrtaceae and Melastomataceae families that produce berries, the dispersal process relies on the birds' feeding habits:

• Consumption: These berries, especially those found on low-growth forest vegetation, serve as an important food source for birds.1
• Digestion and Viability: As birds consume the fruit, the seeds pass through their digestive tracts. The seeds remain viable even after this process, allowing them to be deposited in new locations through the birds' excrement.1

This method of dispersal is a common strategy for plants with fleshy, conspicuous fruits, which are often adapted to attract fruit-eating birds. These plants typically ensure their seeds survive the digestive process by protecting them against damage, often through hardness or chemical defenses, ensuring the embryo remains intact until it is excreted.2