How do animals disperse seeds by eating fleshy fruits?

Animals disperse seeds through the consumption of fleshy fruits via a process known as endozoochory. This mutualistic relationship evolved to facilitate plant propagation, where the plant provides sustenance to the animal in exchange for the transport of its seeds to new locations.12

When an animal eats a fleshy fruit, the seeds typically pass through its alimentary canal intact. The animal later excretes these seeds, often at a significant distance from the parent plant, effectively planting them in a new environment. In some cases, the seeds are regurgitated rather than excreted. For many plant species, this passage through the digestive system is beneficial or even necessary to stimulate germination.324

To ensure this process is successful, plants have evolved specific adaptations:
* Attraction: The fleshy parts of fruits are often brightly colored and sweet to attract vertebrates, such as birds and mammals.34
* Protection: Seeds are often protected against digestion by a hard, stony coat or bitter compounds, ensuring they remain viable after passing through the animal.341
* Timing: Fruits often contain acids or tannins while green to prevent premature consumption, ripening only when the seeds are ready for dispersal.4