Fruits, Frugivores and Fleshy-fruit plants in Sriharikota, south India

This book is about fruit-eating birds and mammals and the fleshy-fruit species used by them. The study was conducted in Sriharikota, in the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. The different species of fruit eating birds and mammals and the fruit resources utilised by them have been documented. Important fruit resources has been shortlisted and the merits of the resources have been discussed. The fruit traits that limit fruit consumption has been identified. Fruiting seasons of fleshy-fruit species were monitored and related to rainfall and abundance of avian frugivores. Recommendations have been made for the conservation of frugivores. In total, 56 fleshy-fruit species were consumed by birds and mammals. Protection in the form of tough fruit /seed coat limits fruit utlisation by birds. Figs were important resource in the island and is a keystone resource for the Coppersmith Barbet. Figs also ensure a continuous food supply for fruit bats. Fleshy-fruit availability is unpredictable and unreliable. Avian frugivore abundance did not show positive relation with fruit abundance. Conservation of figs and other important flora is essential for frugivorous animals.

I have a doctorate in Zoology from the University of Mumbai, India, through the Bombay Natural History Society. Iam interested in comprehending the movement patterns and habitat utilisation of fruit eating animals and nesting ecology of birds. Currently Iam Part of a team studying the distribution patterns of birds in eastern ghats of Tamil Nadu.