| dc.description.abstract | The evolutionary process recorded in several vertebrate taxa was largely determined by the conditions of microclimate, habitat and optimization of the exploitation of food resources (Jordano, 2000; Brown & Lomolino, 2006; Ares 2007; Del Claro 2012; Alves et al., 2012; Thompson, 2012). Food specializations are a reflection of these adaptive processes. Among the different eating habits observed in birds, frugivory deserves to be highlighted due to its high incidence in different groups. Birds are among the animals with the highest number of frugivorous species in the Neotropical region (Moermond & Denslow, 1985; Jordano, 1987; Fadini & De Marco Jr., 2004) where they play an important ecological role by acting as dispersing agents for these plants ( Herrera, 1985; Fleming, 1987; Galetti & Pizo, 2003; Fleming & Kress 2011; Alves et al., 2012). In Brazil, there are about 22 families that feed regularly on fruits (Tinamidae, Rheidae, Cracidae, Odontophoridae, Opisthocomidae, Psophiidae, Columbidae, Psittacidae, Steathornithidae, Trogonidae, Capitonidae, Ramphastidae, Pipridae, Cotingidae, Tytiridae, Corvidae, Turdidae, Mimidae , Vireonidae, Coerebidae, Thraupidae, Fringillidae). Among all animals, birds are considered the most common frugivores among vertebrates (Fleming & Kress, 2011). According to Fleming (1987) it is estimated that 50% to 90% of all trees in tropical forests are dispersed by animals and 20% to 50% of bird and mammal species consume fruits. | pt_BR |
