Frugivory of Martes martes and Genetta genetta in an insular Mediterranean habitat

Abstract

Fruit consumption and seed dispersal by introduced Eurasian Pine martens (Martes martes) and Common genets (Genetta genetta) was investigated in the Balearic Islands, Spain. Pine martens and genets were frugivorous year-round ; nine species of fleshy fruits were eaten by Pine martens while no more than four appeared in the genet diets. Pine martens were highly frugivorous and may serve an important role in seed dispersal. Seeds from cultivated fruit seeds were more prevalent than wild-native fruits for both species on all islands except Cabrera. Microhabitat characteristics at most genet latrine sites did not appear favourable for seed survival and germination. It is speculated that Cabreran genets may have a secondary effect on the seed dispersal process by being poor quality seed dispersers and important predators of the avian seed-dispersing component on the island.