By which method are mesquite seeds spread?

Mesquite seeds are primarily spread by animals, which plays a significant role in their reproductive cycle. Many animals, including birds and mammals, consume mesquite pods for their high nutritional value. As these animals eat the pods, they inadvertently transport the seeds within their digestive systems. After digestion, the seeds are excreted, often in nutrient-rich droppings, which can help promote germination in new locations. This mutualistic relationship between mesquite trees and seed-dispersing animals ensures the seeds are spread over considerable distances, increasing the chances for successful establishment in various habitats.

The other methods of seed dispersal, while possible for some other plants, are not primary for mesquite seeds. Wind dispersal is typically effective for lightweight seeds that can be carried by air currents, while water dispersal applies to seeds that can float. Equipment could inadvertently move seeds, but it does not constitute a natural or primary method of dispersal for mesquite. Therefore, the animal-mediated process is crucial for the propagation of mesquite trees.