Pelletised seeding improves seed retention in Acacia decurrens: implications for ecological restoration

Seed loss attributed to predation poses a significant barrier to effective seed-based revegetation efforts. Given that seed is an expensive and finite resource, optimising its inclusion in ecological restoration is essential toward meeting ambitious targets for nature repair. Pelletised seeding can help protect native seeds and improve germination and establishment; yet exploration of how pellets influence post-dispersal seed retention remains understudied. Here, we tested the efficacy of pelletised seeding on seed removal using Acacia decurrens as a model. Using a field trial replicated across three sites, we performed two experiments. First, we measured seed retention among seeds provided in a pellet compared to seeds without any modification. Second, we tested whether additional anti-predator amendments could be added to the pellets to further improve seed retention. Seed retention was 42% higher in pellets relative to untreated seed. However, the addition of anti-predator amendments demonstrated minimal added benefit. These results demonstrate that pelletised seed delivery methods may improve the efficacy of seed use in ecological restoration by improving seed retention at sites where revegetation is required.