Interaction patterns between frugivorous birds and tree species, with seasonal variations, were determined in a restinga forest. Visual observations and bird captures were performed throughout a year, estimating the connectance of the mutualistic system and the importance index of species. The interaction network of the system was also worked out and seasonal variation in these interactions was analyzed. Eighteen animal species and 11 tree species were recorded as interacting, with a connectance of 25.3%. Turdus amaurochalinus and T. rufiventris had the highest number of visits, interacted with most tree species and had the highest importance index, being characterized as the main potential dispersers. Ocotea pulchella and Myrsine spp. were recorded with the highest numbers of fruit consumption events by the birds. Ficus organensis, however, interacted with more disperser species, besides being most important for the birds' diet. Variations in the number of frugivory events throughout the year were observed, with a significant increase in spring. Moreover, an increase in frugivorous species was verified during spring and summer, as well as in the number of tree species visited during these seasons.
bird-plant interaction; frugivory; tree stratum; Atlantic Forest
