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Jones ME, Sheard C. The macroevolutionary dynamics of mammalian sexual size dimorphism. Proc Biol Sci 2023; 290:20231211. [PMID: 37964522 PMCID: PMC10646455 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.1211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexual size dimorphism (SSD) is a common phenomenon across the animal kingdom. Mammals are unusual in primarily displaying male-biased SSD, where males of a species are typically larger than females. The driving factors behind the evolution of this SSD have been much debated, with popular hypotheses invoking the influence of mating system and social organization via sexual selection, dietary niche divergence and broad-scale correlations with body size (Rensch's rule). Here, we investigate the macroevolutionary origins and maintenance of SSD among mammals, using phylogenetic general mixed linear models and a comprehensive global dataset to evaluate correlations of diet, body mass, seasonality, social organization and mating system with SSD type. We find that SSD as a whole is lost at a greater rate than it is gained, with female-biased SSD being particularly unstable. Non-monogamous mating systems, vertebrate prey consumption and temperature seasonality correlate with male-biased SSD, while polyandry correlates with female-biased SSD, and both types of SSD are positively correlated with body mass. This is in partial contrast to the predictions of Rensch's rule, which predicts that female-biased SSD would correlate negatively with body size. Taken together, our results highlight the importance of considering multiple ecological and social drivers when evaluating the macroevolutionary trajectory of sex differences in body size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan E. Jones
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Manchester, 176 Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9QQ, UK
- Bristol Palaeobiology Group, School of Earth Sciences, University of Bristol, 24 Tyndall Avenue, Bristol BS8 1TQ, UK
| | - Catherine Sheard
- Bristol Palaeobiology Group, School of Earth Sciences, University of Bristol, 24 Tyndall Avenue, Bristol BS8 1TQ, UK
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Ave, Aberdeen, AB24 2TZ, UK
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2
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Wereszczuk A, Zalewski A. An anthropogenic landscape reduces the influence of climate conditions and moonlight on carnivore activity. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2023; 77:55. [PMID: 37200556 PMCID: PMC10172063 DOI: 10.1007/s00265-023-03331-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Abstract Abiotic factors are limitations that can affect animal activity and distribution, whether directly or indirectly. The objective of this study was to evaluate how abiotic factors influence the activity of two mustelid species inhabiting the same region but different habitats in NE Poland-pine marten inhabits forests and stone marten occupy built-up areas. From 1991 to 2016, we obtained 23,639 year-round observations of 15 pine martens and 8524 observations of 47 stone martens. We explore the influence of ambient temperature, snow cover depth and moonlight reaching the ground and interactions between these variables on the probability of martens' activity. The activity of pine martens living in natural habitats is more affected by climate conditions and moonlight than that of stone martens living in anthropogenic areas. Pine martens inhabiting forests increased activity when the ambient temperature was above 0 °C and snow cover was absent, as well as when the ambient temperature dropped to - 15 °C and snow cover depth was about 10 cm. Stone marten occupying anthropogenic areas did not reduce their activity if the temperature dropped. Variation of activity in relation to ambient conditions is probably related to pine martens' behavioural thermoregulation. The pine marten was active more frequently on bright nights, while moonlight intensity did not affect the activity of the stone marten. Our study concludes that complex interactions among abiotic factors concerning different habitats play a synergetic role in shaping carnivore activity and suggest that climate warming may affect the behaviour of both martens. Significance statement The survival and reproduction of animals depends on their activity, which is subject to various constraints. We studied the influence of climate conditions and moonlight intensity on the ground on the activity of pine and stone marten. We found that pine martens in natural habitat were greatly impacted by ambient conditions, whereas stone martens in built-up areas were less so. Natural habitats involve limitations related to harsh winters but may mitigate the effects of high temperatures. In contrast, animals living in built-up areas are exposed to higher temperatures in summer, which is of particular importance in the face of climate change. Our results show that the combination of several environmental factors affects animal behaviour and these factors have varying effects in various habitats. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00265-023-03331-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Wereszczuk
- Mammal Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Stoczek 1, 17-230 Białowieża, Poland
| | - Andrzej Zalewski
- Mammal Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Stoczek 1, 17-230 Białowieża, Poland
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3
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Laliberté J, Rioux È, Lesmerises R, St-Laurent MH. Linking sexual size dimorphism to trophic niche partitioning in a generalist predator. CAN J ZOOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1139/cjz-2022-0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Sexual size dimorphism is a common phenomenon in mammals, and researchers have been trying to demonstrate the evolutionary causes leading to sexual dimorphism. Two main hypotheses emerged: (1) the sexual selection hypothesis and (2) the sexual competition hypothesis (also called resource partitioning hypothesis). Here, we attempted to link sexual dimorphism in fishers ( Pekania pennanti (Erxleben, 1777)) with their fall diet using stable isotope profiling and body and skull measurements. We used the carcasses of 39 fishers which were caught in eastern Québec during fall 2014 by volunteer trappers as well as several potential prey items ranging from small rodents to cervids. We expected minimal niche overlap between sexes, as males should be able to exploit different prey species than females. We also expected to observe an effect of age class (adults vs. juveniles) on trophic niche. As expected, we found great evidence of sexual dimorphism in both body mass and skull measurements: males were heavier and longer than females and had a larger zygomatic and intracanine width and a longer skull. While proportions of prey in diet according to sex and age did not vary greatly, we found some evidence of niche partitioning using Layman's metrics. Indeed, females tended to have a less diversified and more similar diet compared to one another, whereas males showed more diversified and contrasted diets. Despite our limited sample size, our findings provide partial support to the sexual competition hypothesis, as the difference in body and skull size based on sex could have evolved to lessen intraspecific competition in fishers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme Laliberté
- Département de Biologie, Chimie et Géographie, Université du Québec à Rimouski, Centre for Forest Research, 300 Allée des Ursulines, Rimouski, QC G5L 3A1, Canada
| | - Ève Rioux
- Département de Biologie, Chimie et Géographie, Université du Québec à Rimouski, Centre for Forest Research, 300 Allée des Ursulines, Rimouski, QC G5L 3A1, Canada
| | - Rémi Lesmerises
- Département de Biologie, Chimie et Géographie, Université du Québec à Rimouski, Centre for Forest Research, 300 Allée des Ursulines, Rimouski, QC G5L 3A1, Canada
| | - Martin-Hugues St-Laurent
- Département de Biologie, Chimie et Géographie, Université du Québec à Rimouski, Centre for Forest Research, 300 Allée des Ursulines, Rimouski, QC G5L 3A1, Canada
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Naganuma T, Nakashita R, Tochigi K, Zedrosser A, Kozakai C, Yamazaki K, Koike S. Functional dietary response of Asian black bears to changes in sika deer density. J Wildl Manage 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.22218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Naganuma
- Institute of Global Innovation Research Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology 3‐5‐8 Saiwai‐cho Fuchu Tokyo 183‐8509 Japan
| | - Rumiko Nakashita
- Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute 1 Matsunosato Tsukuba Ibaraki 305‐8687 Japan
| | - Kahoko Tochigi
- United Graduate School of Agricultural Science Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology 3‐5‐8 Saiwai‐cho Fuchu Tokyo 183‐8509 Japan
| | - Andreas Zedrosser
- Department of Natural Sciences and Environmental Health University of South‐Eastern Norway Gullbringvegen 36 3800 Bø Telemark Norway
| | - Chinatsu Kozakai
- National Agriculture and Food Research Organization 2‐1‐18 Kannondai Tsukuba Ibaraki 305‐8666 Japan
| | - Koji Yamazaki
- Department of Forest Science Faculty of Regional Environmental Science Tokyo University of Agriculture 1‐1‐1 Sakuragaoka Setagaya Tokyo 156‐8502 Japan
| | - Shinsuke Koike
- Institute of Global Innovation Research Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology 3‐5‐8 Saiwai‐cho Fuchu Tokyo 183‐8509 Japan
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5
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OUP accepted manuscript. J Mammal 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyac049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Hasegawa A, Goto Y, Yamazaki K. Are there Sexual Differences in the Autumn Food Habits of Raccoon Dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) in Suburban Area? MAMMAL STUDY 2021. [DOI: 10.3106/ms2020-0079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ayaka Hasegawa
- Department of Forest Science, Faculty of Regional Environmental Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, 1-1-1 Sakuragaoka, Setagaya, Tokyo 156-8502, Japan
| | - Yusuke Goto
- Zoological Laboratory, Ibaraki Nature Museum, 700 Osaki, Bando City, Ibaraki 306-0622, Japan
| | - Koji Yamazaki
- Department of Forest Science, Faculty of Regional Environmental Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, 1-1-1 Sakuragaoka, Setagaya, Tokyo 156-8502, Japan
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Jung TS, Slough BG, McEwan CA, Johnston WG. Snow tracking provides insights on the hunting behaviour of marten (Martes americana). MAMMAL RES 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s13364-021-00596-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Rodrigues DH, Calixto E, Cesario CS, Repoles RB, de Paula Lopes W, Oliveira VS, Brinati A, Hemetrio NS, Silva IO, Boere V. Feeding Ecology of Wild Brown-Nosed Coatis and Garbage Exploration: A Study in Two Ecological Parks. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:2412. [PMID: 34438869 PMCID: PMC8388731 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Wild animals that feed on garbage waste are a problem in ecological parks as it can substantially alter their food ecology. Wild coatis that occupy human recreation areas in parks are often observed feeding on garbage, but the ecological consequences are scarcely known. Forty-four fecal samples from females and 12 from males of wild coatis living in two ecological parks (Parque Municipal das Mangabeiras (PMM) and Parque Nacional do Caparaó (PNC)) were analyzed. Multivariate statistics were applied to evaluate the interaction between four variables (fecal volume, composition, place and sex of coatis). A significant interaction between the parks and sexes with regard to volume and food category was not found. Ungrouped analysis allowed for the identification of a decreasing gradient in volume from PNC males, followed by PNC females, PMM males, and PMM females. We did not find differences between categories of food between males and females from PNC and PMM, except for invertebrates. Females from PNC consumed more invertebrates than males and females of PMM, but we did not find differences from PNC males. The coatis of both parks primarily consume invertebrates and vegetables, but garbage residues were found in their feces. Garbage fragments, such as paper, glass, metal, plastic and rope, cause a risk to the health, compromising the conservation efforts of wild coatis. Actions are needed to prevent the access of coatis to dumps in both parks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delma Henriques Rodrigues
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biologia Animal, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, MG, Brazil; (D.H.R.); (C.S.C.); (R.B.R.); (A.B.); (I.O.S.)
| | - Eduardo Calixto
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Entomologia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-220, SP, Brazil;
| | - Clarice Silva Cesario
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biologia Animal, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, MG, Brazil; (D.H.R.); (C.S.C.); (R.B.R.); (A.B.); (I.O.S.)
| | - Renata Barcelos Repoles
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biologia Animal, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, MG, Brazil; (D.H.R.); (C.S.C.); (R.B.R.); (A.B.); (I.O.S.)
| | | | - Viviane Silva Oliveira
- Ciências Biológicas, Universidade do Estado de Minas Gerais, Caratinga 35309-899, MG, Brazil;
| | - Alessandro Brinati
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biologia Animal, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, MG, Brazil; (D.H.R.); (C.S.C.); (R.B.R.); (A.B.); (I.O.S.)
| | - Nadja Simbera Hemetrio
- Fundação de Parques Municipais e Zoobotânica de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte 31210-090, MG, Brazil;
| | - Ita Oliveira Silva
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biologia Animal, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, MG, Brazil; (D.H.R.); (C.S.C.); (R.B.R.); (A.B.); (I.O.S.)
- Instituto de Humanidades, Artes e Ciências, Universidade Federal do Sul da Bahia, BR 415, Sn, Itabuna 45660-000, BA, Brazil
| | - Vanner Boere
- Instituto de Humanidades, Artes e Ciências, Universidade Federal do Sul da Bahia, BR 415, Sn, Itabuna 45660-000, BA, Brazil
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Lan B, Dong Y, Niklas KJ, Sun S. Dietary differences between grasshoppers are associated with life history tradeoffs in an alpine meadow. Ecol Res 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/1440-1703.12248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bin Lan
- Department of Ecology School of Life Science, Nanjing University Nanjing China
| | - Yuran Dong
- Department of Ecology School of Life Science, Nanjing University Nanjing China
| | - Karl J. Niklas
- Plant Biology Section, School of Integrative Plant Science Cornell University Ithaca New York USA
| | - Shucun Sun
- Department of Ecology School of Life Science, Nanjing University Nanjing China
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Zalewski A, Szymura M, Kowalczyk R, Brzeziński M. Low individual diet variation and high trophic niche overlap between the native polecat and invasive American mink. J Zool (1987) 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Zalewski
- Mammal Research Institute Polish Academy of Sciences Białowieża Poland
| | - M. Szymura
- Mammal Research Institute Polish Academy of Sciences Białowieża Poland
| | - R. Kowalczyk
- Mammal Research Institute Polish Academy of Sciences Białowieża Poland
| | - M. Brzeziński
- Faculty of Biology University of Warsaw Warszawa Poland
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11
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Intraspecific dietary variation in niche partitioning within a community of ecologically similar snakes. Evol Ecol 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10682-020-10078-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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12
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McNicol CM, Bavin D, Bearhop S, Bridges J, Croose E, Gill R, Goodwin CED, Lewis J, MacPherson J, Padfield D, Schofield H, Silk MJ, Tomlinson AJ, McDonald RA. Postrelease movement and habitat selection of translocated pine martens Martes martes. Ecol Evol 2020; 10:5106-5118. [PMID: 32551086 PMCID: PMC7297779 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.6265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Monitoring postrelease establishment and movement of animals is important in evaluating conservation translocations. We translocated 39 wild pine martens Martes martes (19 females, 20 males) from Scotland to Wales. We released them into forested areas with no conspecifics in 2015, followed by a second release in 2016, alongside the previously released animals. We used radio-tracking to describe postrelease movement and habitat selection. Six martens (15%) were not re-encountered during the tracking period, of which four undertook long-distance dispersal. For the remaining individuals, we characterized two phases of movement, "exploration" followed by "settlement," that differed between releases. In the first release, martens remained in exploration phase for a mean of 14.5 days (SE = 3.9 days) and settled at a mean distance of 8.7 km (SE = 1.8 km) from release sites, whereas martens released in year two, alongside resident conspecifics, traveled away from release sites at a faster rate, settling sooner, at a mean of 6.6 days (SE = 1.8 days), but further, at a mean distance of 14.0 km (SE = 1.7 km) from release sites. Animals released in year one did not exhibit habitat preferences overall but within forests they favored recently felled areas, whereas animals released in year two showed strong selection for forested habitat but did not discriminate between forest types. The presence of conspecifics appeared influential for settlement and site fidelity of translocated martens and was associated with more rapid but more distant dispersal of the later cohort. Releases of animals in close proximity appeared to promote site fidelity and rapid establishment of ranges in the recipient environment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Bavin
- Environment and Sustainability InstituteUniversity of ExeterPenrynUK
- Vincent Wildlife TrustEastnorLedburyUK
| | - Stuart Bearhop
- Centre for Ecology and ConservationUniversity of ExeterPenrynUK
| | | | | | - Robin Gill
- Forest ResearchAlice Holt LodgeFarnhamUK
| | | | | | | | - Daniel Padfield
- Environment and Sustainability InstituteUniversity of ExeterPenrynUK
| | | | - Matthew J. Silk
- Environment and Sustainability InstituteUniversity of ExeterPenrynUK
- Centre for Ecology and ConservationUniversity of ExeterPenrynUK
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Twining JP, Montgomery WI, Tosh DG. The dynamics of pine marten predation on red and grey squirrels. Mamm Biol 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s42991-020-00031-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
AbstractInvasive alien species pose one of the greatest threats to global biodiversity. In parts of Europe, introduced eastern grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) have caused regional extinctions of the native red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris). However, exposure to pine martens (Martes martes) has been demonstrated to reverse the competitive outcome between red and grey squirrels. The mechanism whereby this effect occurs remains unclear. It is hypothesised that direct predation, facilitated by a lack of behavioural response, is the mechanism driving this relationship. We review the literature and reanalyse a new dataset to provide further data on the occurrence of both squirrel species in the scats of pine marten. Both squirrel species occurred in the scats of pine marten confirming its role as a predator of these species. Predation of grey squirrels was significantly higher than red squirrels and was recorded only in spring and summer. Our review provides evidence for the mechanism driving the current decline in grey squirrels in Ireland and Scotland and supports the hypothesis that in the presence of a shared predator, direct predation influences the outcome of species interactions between native red and non-native grey squirrels.
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Zalewska K, Zalewski A, Wajrak A, Selva N. Tadpoles in the diet of otters – an overlooked prey item in the diet of a riparian predator? JOURNAL OF VERTEBRATE BIOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.25225/jvb.20005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrzej Zalewski
- Mammal Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Stoczek 1, 17 230 Białowieża, Poland; e-mail:
| | - Adam Wajrak
- Gazeta Wyborcza, Czerska 8/10, 00 732 Warsaw, Poland; e-mail:
| | - Nuria Selva
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Mickiewicza 33, 31 120 Kraków, Poland; e-mail:
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Pagh S, Pertoldi C, Petersen HH, Jensen TH, Hansen MS, Madsen S, Kraft DCE, Iversen N, Roslev P, Chriel M. Methods for the identification of farm escapees in feral mink (Neovison vison) populations. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0224559. [PMID: 31710608 PMCID: PMC6852605 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0224559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
In Denmark, American mink (Neovison vison) have been bred for
their fur since the mid-1920s. Mink escaping from farms may supply the feral
population. Often, it is of biological and management interest to separate the
population of feral mink (i.e. mink caught in the wild) in two groups: 1) mink
born on farms i.e., escapees, and 2) mink born in the wild. In this study, two
methods were used for separating feral mink into the two groups: a) Comparison
of body length of farmed mink and feral mink, and b) Presence of a biomarker
(tetracycline: an oral antibiotic used on mink farms). A total of 367 wild
caught mink (from the mainland of Denmark and the island of Bornholm), and 147
mink from farms, collected during the period 2014–2018, were used for the
analysis of body length. For the testing of tetracycline (TC) as a biomarker, 78
mink from farms where there was knowledge about TC treatment (with or without)
were examined for fluorescent markings in the canine teeth. Results from both
univariate analyses and Gaussian mixture model analysis demonstrated clear
divisions between the mean body length (mean ± S.E., range) of farmed males
(52.1 cm ± 0.4, 48–68) and farmed females (mean 44.0 ± 0.2, 40–50), and between
farmed mink and wild caught mink. Mixture analysis identified two groups within
each sex of the wild caught mink, one assigned to farmed mink (born in
captivity) and another group of smaller mink suspected of being born in the
wild. On Bornholm, the mean (±SD, range) length of males born in the wild was
43.7cm (± 0.3, 36–57) and for females 37.5cm (± 0.3, 32–45). The mean length
(±SD, range) of males born in the wild in the mainland of Denmark was 42.5cm (±
2.3, 36–46) and for females 36.1cm (± 1.0, 34–37). Among the feral mink from
mainland Denmark, 28.4% of males and 21.6% of females were identified as
escapees, while 0% of the males and 1% of the females were identified as
escapees among the wild caught mink on Bornholm. Eight percent of mink from
farms using tetracycline were false negatives, while no false positives were
found among mink from farms not using TC. TC fluorescence was found in five of
217 mink caught in the wild equivalent to 22% escapees in mainland Denmark. No
TC markings were found in mink caught in the wild on Bornholm. In conclusion,
both methods a) the body length of mink, and b) fluorescent biomarkers in canine
teeth are considered as useful tools to identifing mink that have escaped from
farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sussie Pagh
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience—Section of Biology and
Environmental Science, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- * E-mail:
| | - Cino Pertoldi
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience—Section of Biology and
Environmental Science, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Aalborg Zoo, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Heidi Huus Petersen
- National Veterinary Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs,
Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Trine Hammer Jensen
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience—Section of Biology and
Environmental Science, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Aalborg Zoo, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Mette Sif Hansen
- National Veterinary Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs,
Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Sussi Madsen
- Department of Dentistry and Oral Health, University of Aarhus, Aarhus,
Denmark
| | | | - Niels Iversen
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience—Section of Biology and
Environmental Science, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Peter Roslev
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience—Section of Biology and
Environmental Science, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Mariann Chriel
- National Veterinary Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs,
Lyngby, Denmark
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Zalewska K, Zalewski A. Size Selection of Alternative Prey Relative to the Abundance of Primary Prey: Pine Marten Hunting for Frogs. ANN ZOOL FENN 2019. [DOI: 10.5735/086.056.0105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrzej Zalewski
- Mammal Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-17-230 Białowieża, Poland
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Bútora Ľ, Lešo P, Kociková K, Kropil R, Pataky T, Svitok M. Sexual dimorphism of craniological characters in the European badger, Meles meles, (Carnivora, Mustelidae) from the Western Carpathians. FOLIA ZOOLOGICA 2018. [DOI: 10.25225/fozo.v67.i3-4.a11.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ľubomír Bútora
- Department of Applied Zoology and Wildlife Management, Faculty of Forestry, Technical University in
| | - Peter Lešo
- Department of Applied Zoology and Wildlife Management, Faculty of Forestry, Technical University in
| | | | - Rudolf Kropil
- Department of Applied Zoology and Wildlife Management, Faculty of Forestry, Technical University in
| | - Tibor Pataky
- Department of Applied Zoology and Wildlife Management, Faculty of Forestry, Technical University in
| | - Marek Svitok
- Department of Biology and General Ecology, Faculty of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Technical
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Caravaggi A, Gatta M, Vallely MC, Hogg K, Freeman M, Fadaei E, Dick JT, Montgomery WI, Reid N, Tosh DG. Seasonal and predator-prey effects on circadian activity of free-ranging mammals revealed by camera traps. PeerJ 2018; 6:e5827. [PMID: 30498626 PMCID: PMC6252065 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.5827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Endogenous circadian and seasonal activity patterns are adapted to facilitate effective utilisation of environmental resources. Activity patterns are shaped by physiological constraints, evolutionary history, circadian and seasonal changes and may be influenced by other factors, including ecological competition and interspecific interactions. Remote-sensing camera traps allow the collection of species presence data throughout the 24 h period and for almost indefinite lengths of time. Here, we collate data from 10 separate camera trap surveys in order to describe circadian and seasonal activity patterns of 10 mammal species, and, in particular, to evaluate interspecific (dis)associations of five predator-prey pairs. We recorded 8,761 independent detections throughout Northern Ireland. Badgers, foxes, pine martens and wood mice were nocturnal; European and Irish hares and European rabbits were crepuscular; fallow deer and grey and red squirrels were diurnal. All species exhibited significant seasonal variation in activity relative to the timing of sunrise/sunset. Foxes in particular were more crepuscular from spring to autumn and hares more diurnal. Lagged regression analyses of predator-prey activity patterns between foxes and prey (hares, rabbits and wood mice), and pine marten and prey (squirrel and wood mice) revealed significant annual and seasonal cross-correlations. We found synchronised activity patterns between foxes and hares, rabbits and wood mice and pine marten and wood mice, and asynchrony between squirrels and pine martens. Here, we provide fundamental ecological data on endemic, invasive, pest and commercially valuable species in Ireland, as well as those of conservation importance and those that could harbour diseases of economic and/or zoonotic relevance. Our data will be valuable in informing the development of appropriate species-specific methodologies and processes and associated policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Caravaggi
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, UK
- School of Biological Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Maria Gatta
- School or Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, South Africa
| | - Marie-Claire Vallely
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, UK
- Northern Ireland Environment Agency, UK
| | - Kayleigh Hogg
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, UK
| | | | - Erfan Fadaei
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, UK
- Institute of Global Food Security (IGFS), Queen’s University Belfast, UK
| | - Jaimie T.A. Dick
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, UK
- Institute of Global Food Security (IGFS), Queen’s University Belfast, UK
| | - W. Ian Montgomery
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, UK
- Institute of Global Food Security (IGFS), Queen’s University Belfast, UK
| | - Neil Reid
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, UK
- Institute of Global Food Security (IGFS), Queen’s University Belfast, UK
| | - David G. Tosh
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, UK
- National Museums Northern Ireland, UK
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19
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The diet of denning female European pine martens (Martes martes) in Galloway Forest District, South West Scotland, Great Britain. MAMMAL RES 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s13364-018-0398-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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20
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De Cuyper A, Clauss M, Carbone C, Codron D, Cools A, Hesta M, Janssens GPJ. Predator size and prey size-gut capacity ratios determine kill frequency and carcass production in terrestrial carnivorous mammals. OIKOS 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/oik.05488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Annelies De Cuyper
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Dept of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent Univ; Heidestraat 19 BE-9820 Merelbeke Belgium
| | - Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Univ. of Zurich; Zürich Switzerland
| | - Chris Carbone
- Inst. of Zoology, Zoological Society of London; London UK
| | - Daryl Codron
- Florisbad Quaternary Research Dept, National Museum; Bloemfontein South Africa
- Centre for Environmental Management, Univ. of the Free State; Bloemfontein South Africa
| | - An Cools
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Dept of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent Univ; Heidestraat 19 BE-9820 Merelbeke Belgium
| | - Myriam Hesta
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Dept of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent Univ; Heidestraat 19 BE-9820 Merelbeke Belgium
| | - Geert P. J. Janssens
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Dept of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent Univ; Heidestraat 19 BE-9820 Merelbeke Belgium
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21
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Law CJ, Mehta RS. Carnivory maintains cranial dimorphism between males and females: Evidence for niche divergence in extant Musteloidea. Evolution 2018; 72:1950-1961. [DOI: 10.1111/evo.13514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chris J. Law
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of California, Santa Cruz Santa Cruz California 95060
| | - Rita S. Mehta
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of California, Santa Cruz Santa Cruz California 95060
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22
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Diet footprint of Egyptian mongoose along ecological gradients: effects of primary productivity and life history traits. Mamm Biol 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2017.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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23
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Iwama M, Yamazaki K, Matsuyama M, Hoshino Y, Hisano M, Newman C, Kaneko Y. Masked Palm Civet Paguma larvata Summer Diet Differs between Sexes in a Suburban Area of Central Japan. MAMMAL STUDY 2017. [DOI: 10.3106/041.042.0301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Masakazu Iwama
- Carnivore Ecology and Conservation Research Group, Institute of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Saiwaicho 3-5-8, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-0054, Japan
| | - Koji Yamazaki
- Ibaraki Nature Museum, Zoological Laboratory, 700 Osaki, Bando, Ibaraki 306-0622, Japan
- Department of Forest Science, Faculty of Regional Environmental Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, 1-1-1 Sakuragaoka, Setagaya, Tokyo 156-8502, Japan
| | - Miho Matsuyama
- Laboratory of Vegetation Management, Institute of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Saiwaicho 3-5-8, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-0054, Japan
| | - Yoshinobu Hoshino
- Laboratory of Vegetation Management, Institute of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Saiwaicho 3-5-8, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-0054, Japan
| | - Masumi Hisano
- Faculty of Natural Resources Management, Lakehead University, 955 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1, Canada
| | - Chris Newman
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, The Recanati-Kaplan Centre, Tubney House, Abingdon Road, Tubney, Oxon OX13 5QL, UK
| | - Yayoi Kaneko
- Carnivore Ecology and Conservation Research Group, Institute of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Saiwaicho 3-5-8, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-0054, Japan
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24
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Darinot F. The harvest mouse (Micromys minutusPallas, 1771) as prey: a literature review. FOLIA ZOOLOGICA 2016. [DOI: 10.25225/fozo.v65.i2.a7.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fabrice Darinot
- Réserve Naturelle Nationale du Marais de Lavours, 31, chemin des prés de la tour, 73310 Chindrieux, France
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25
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Spatio-temporal variation of predator diet in a rural habitat: stone martens in the villages of Białowieża forest. MAMMAL RES 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s13364-016-0273-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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26
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Kurek P. Consumption of fleshy fruit: Are central European carnivores really less frugivorous than southern European carnivores? Mamm Biol 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2015.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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27
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Wereszczuk A, Zalewski A. Spatial Niche Segregation of Sympatric Stone Marten and Pine Marten--Avoidance of Competition or Selection of Optimal Habitat? PLoS One 2015; 10:e0139852. [PMID: 26444280 PMCID: PMC4596623 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0139852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2015] [Accepted: 09/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Coexistence of ecologically similar species relies on differences in one or more dimensions of their ecological niches, such as space, time and resources in diel and/or seasonal scales. However, niche differentiation may result from other mechanisms such as avoidance of high predation pressure, different adaptations or requirements of ecologically similar species. Stone marten (Martes foina) and pine marten (Martes martes) occur sympatrically over a large area in Central Europe and utilize similar habitats and food, therefore it is expected that their coexistence requires differentiation in at least one of their niche dimensions or the mechanisms through which these dimensions are used. To test this hypothesis, we used differences in the species activity patterns and habitat selection, estimated with a resource selection function (RSF), to predict the relative probability of occurrence of the two species within a large forest complex in the northern geographic range of the stone marten. Stone martens were significantly heavier, have a longer body and a better body condition than pine martens. We found weak evidence for temporal niche segregation between the species. Stone and pine martens were both primarily nocturnal, but pine martens were active more frequently during the day and significantly reduced the duration of activity during autumn-winter. Stone and pine martens utilized different habitats and almost completely separated their habitat niches. Stone marten strongly preferred developed areas and avoided meadows and coniferous or deciduous forests. Pine marten preferred deciduous forest and small patches covered by trees, and avoided developed areas and meadows. We conclude that complete habitat segregation of the two marten species facilitates sympatric coexistence in this area. However, spatial niche segregation between these species was more likely due to differences in adaptation to cold climate, avoidance of high predator pressure and/or food preferences by both species than competitive interaction between them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Wereszczuk
- Mammal Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Białowieża, Poland
- * E-mail:
| | - Andrzej Zalewski
- Mammal Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Białowieża, Poland
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28
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Ruette S, Larroque J, Albaret M, Vandel JM, Devillard S. Quantifying the age- and sex-dependent morphological variation in two syntopic mustelids: Martes martes and Martes foina. Mamm Biol 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2015.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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29
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Consumption of fleshy fruit: Are central European carnivores really less frugivorous than southern European carnivores? Mamm Biol 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2015.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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30
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31
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"Reversed" intraguild predation: red fox cubs killed by pine marten. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 59:473-477. [PMID: 24954928 PMCID: PMC4058055 DOI: 10.1007/s13364-014-0179-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 02/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Camera traps deployed at a badger Meles meles set in mixed pine forest in north-eastern Poland recorded interspecific killing of red fox Vulpes vulpes cubs by pine marten Martes martes. The vixen and her cubs settled in the set at the beginning of May 2013, and it was abandoned by the badgers shortly afterwards. Five fox cubs were recorded playing in front of the den each night. Ten days after the first recording of the foxes, a pine marten was filmed at the set; it arrived in the morning, made a reconnaissance and returned at night when the vixen was away from the set. The pine marten entered the den several times and killed at least two fox cubs. It was active at the set for about 2 h. This observation proves that red foxes are not completely safe from predation by smaller carnivores, even those considered to be subordinate species in interspecific competition.
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32
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Kołodziej-Sobocińska M, Zalewski A, Kowalczyk R. Sarcoptic mange vulnerability in carnivores of the Białowieża Primeval Forest, Poland: underlying determinant factors. Ecol Res 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s11284-013-1118-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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33
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Hisano M, Raichev EG, Tsunoda H, Masuda R, Kaneko Y. Winter diet of the stone marten (Martes foina) in central Bulgaria. MAMMAL STUDY 2013. [DOI: 10.3106/041.038.0405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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34
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Korablev MP, Korablev NP, Korablev PN. Population aspects of sexual dimorphism in Mustelidae from the example of four species (Mustela lutreola, Neovison vison, Mustela putorius, and Martes martes). BIOL BULL+ 2013. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062359013010081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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35
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Selva N, Hobson KA, Cortés-Avizanda A, Zalewski A, Donázar JA. Mast pulses shape trophic interactions between fluctuating rodent populations in a primeval forest. PLoS One 2012; 7:e51267. [PMID: 23251475 PMCID: PMC3519590 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0051267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2012] [Accepted: 10/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
How different functional responses of consumers exploiting pulsed resources affect community dynamics is an ongoing question in ecology. Tree masting is a common resource pulse in terrestrial ecosystems that can drive rodent population cycles. Using stable isotope (δ13C, δ15N) analyses, we investigated the dietary response of two fluctuating rodent species, the yellow-necked mouse Apodemus flavicollis and the bank vole Myodes glareolus, to mast events in Białowieża Forest (NE Poland). Rodent hair samples were obtained non-invasively from faeces of their predators for an 11-year period that encompassed two mast events. Spectacular seed crops of deciduous trees, namely oak Quercus robur and hornbeam Carpinus betulus, occur after several intermediate years of moderate seed production, with a post-mast year characterised by a nil crop. While a Bayesian isotopic (SIAR) mixing model showed a variety of potential vegetation inputs to rodent diets, the isotopic niche of the yellow-necked mouse was strongly associated with mast of deciduous trees (>80% of diet), showing no variation among years of different seed crop. However, bank voles showed a strong functional response; in mast years the vole shifted its diet from herbs in deciduous forest (∼66% of diet) to mast (∼74%). Only in mast years did the isotopic niche of both rodent species overlap. Previous research showed that bank voles, subordinate and more generalist than mice, showed higher fluctuations in numbers in response to masting. This study provides unique data on the functional response of key pulse consumers in forest food webs, and contributes to our understanding of rodent population fluctuations and the mechanisms governing pulse–consumer interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuria Selva
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland.
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36
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Alternative strategies in the acquisition of home ranges by male pine martens in a high-density population. ACTA THERIOLOGICA 2012; 57:371-375. [PMID: 23002288 PMCID: PMC3443354 DOI: 10.1007/s13364-012-0086-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2012] [Accepted: 06/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Two strategies of home range acquisition by male subadult pine martens (Martes martes) were described from a high-density population inhabiting Białowieża National Park. Four mother–offspring pairs were identified by genetic parentage assignments. Four subadult males showed two different strategies of home range acquisition: dispersal and sedentary. The dispersing males used an area 4–10 times larger than in sedentary subadult males. A sedentary subadult male used his natal area with his mother, and in the following mating season, this male left this area and established a home range that overlapped greatly with another unrelated female near the natal range. A similar high overlap between another subadult male and an unrelated adult female persisted for 3 years. After the death of this female, the male extended his range to overlap slightly with two to four other females. The sedentary strategy adopted by some subadult males may explain the great variation in spacing patterns of solitary mammals.
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37
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Kopecký O, Vojar J, Šusta F, Rehák I. Composition and Scaling of Male and Female Alpine Newt (Mesotriton Alpestris) Prey, with Related Site and Seasonal Effects. ANN ZOOL FENN 2012. [DOI: 10.5735/086.049.0403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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38
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Monakhov VG. Age variability of the sexual size dimorphism in sables in nature and captivity. Russ J Dev Biol 2012. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062360412040066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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39
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ZALEWSKI ANDRZEJ, BARTOSZEWICZ MAGDALENA. Phenotypic variation of an alien species in a new environment: the body size and diet of American mink over time and at local and continental scales. Biol J Linn Soc Lond 2012. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1095-8312.2011.01811.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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40
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Newman C, Zhou YB, Buesching CD, Kaneko Y, Macdonald DW. Contrasting Sociality in Two Widespread, Generalist, Mustelid Genera,MelesandMartes. MAMMAL STUDY 2011. [DOI: 10.3106/041.036.0401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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41
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Monakhov VG, Ranyuk MN, Safronov VM. Size structure of introduced and native populations of sable in Yakutia. CONTEMP PROBL ECOL+ 2011. [DOI: 10.1134/s1995425511040187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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42
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Rodriguez-Refojos C, Zuberogoitia I, Rosalino LM, Zabala J, Santos MJ, Santos-Reis M, Camps D. Geographical and sexual differences in body size of common genets,Genetta genetta(Viverridae, Carnivora), in south-western Europe (Iberian Peninsula). FOLIA ZOOLOGICA 2011. [DOI: 10.25225/fozo.v60.i1.a9.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Rodriguez-Refojos
- Aranzadi Society of Sciences, Department of Vertebrates, Zorroagagaina kalea, 11, 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Gipuzkoa, Spain
| | - Iñigo Zuberogoitia
- Estudios Medioambientales Icarus, S.L., Pintor Sorolla 6, 1°C, 26007 Logroño, La Rioja, Spain; e-mail:
| | - Luis Miguel Rosalino
- Lisbon University, Centre for Environmental Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Animal Biology Department, Ed. C2, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;,
| | - Jabi Zabala
- Sebero Otxoa 45, 5°B, 48480 Arrigorriaga, Spain
| | - Maria João Santos
- Department of Land, Air and Water Resources, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, U.S.A.
| | - Margarida Santos-Reis
- Lisbon University, Centre for Environmental Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Animal Biology Department, Ed. C2, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;,
| | - David Camps
- Direcció General del Medi Natural, Departament de Medi Ambient i Habitatge, Generalitat de Catalunya, Dr. Roux, 80, 08017 Barcelona, Spain
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43
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Kidawa D, Kowalczyk R. The effects of sex, age, season and habitat on diet of the red fox Vulpes vulpes in northeastern Poland. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 56:209-218. [PMID: 21765531 PMCID: PMC3109248 DOI: 10.1007/s13364-011-0031-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2010] [Accepted: 12/17/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The diet of the red fox Vulpes vulpes was investigated in five regions of northeastern Poland by stomach content analysis of 224 foxes collected from hunters. The red fox is expected to show the opportunistic feeding habits. Our study showed that foxes preyed mainly on wild prey, with strong domination of Microtus rodents, regardless of sex, age, month and habitat. Voles Microtus spp. were found in 73% of stomachs and constituted 47% of food volume consumed. Other food items were ungulate carrion (27% of volume), other mammals (11%), birds (9%), and plant material (4%). Sex- and age-specific differences in dietary diversity were found. Adult males and juvenile foxes had larger food niche breadths than adult females and their diets highly overlapped. Proportion of Microtus voles increased from autumn to late winter. Significant habitat differences between studied regions were found. There was a tendency among foxes to decrease consumption of voles with increasing percentage of forest cover. Based on our findings, red foxes in northeastern Poland can be recognized as a generalist predators, consuming easily accessible and abundant prey. However, high percentage of voles consumed regardless of age, sex, month, or habitats may indicate red fox specialization in preying on Microtus rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorota Kidawa
- Department of Vertebrate Ecology and Zoology, University of Gdańsk, 80-441 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Rafał Kowalczyk
- Mammal Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 17-230 Białowieża, Poland
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44
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Stone marten (Martes foina) habitat in a Mediterranean ecosystem: effects of scale, sex, and interspecific interactions. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-009-0317-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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45
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Monakhov VG. Is sexual size dimorphism variable? Data on species of the genus Martes in the Urals. BIOL BULL+ 2009. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062359009010075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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