1
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Kennedy BPA, Clemann A, Ma GC. Feline Encounters Down Under: Investigating the Activity of Cats and Native Wildlife at Sydney's North Head. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2485. [PMID: 39272270 PMCID: PMC11394113 DOI: 10.3390/ani14172485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Cats (Felis catus) are widespread across Australia, including within natural and protected areas, and in many areas, cats, including owned domestic cats, are not restricted in where or when they can roam. In Australia, cats have contributed to the decline of many native species and continue to be a problem for governments. North Head, Manly, is home to an endangered population of Long-nosed Bandicoot (Perameles nasuta) and the only mainland breeding colony of Little Penguin (Eudyptula minor) in New South Wales (NSW). Camera traps were installed for a 5-week period across North Head to determine the spatial and temporal distribution of cat activity. As well as capturing instances of cats, the cameras detected native animals such as birds, possums, Long-nosed Bandicoots and other small mammals. An analysis of the camera images showed cats could be found within protected areas of the headland (where cats are prohibited) and along the boundary with the adjacent suburban area of Manly. Cats were mostly detected during the night. There were high occurrences of overlap between cats and Long-nosed Bandicoots (Dhat 0.82), possums (Dhat 0.88) and other small mammals (Dhat 0.67). These findings indicate that cats are active across the Manly headland at the same time as native animals, both within protected areas where cats are prohibited and in adjacent residential areas, and this could have implications for these populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke P A Kennedy
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
| | - Anna Clemann
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
| | - Gemma C Ma
- Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals New South Wales, Yagoona, NSW 2199, Australia
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
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2
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McLean D, Goldingay R, Letnic M. Diet of the Dingo in Subtropical Australian Forests: Are Small, Threatened Macropods at Risk? Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2257. [PMID: 37508035 PMCID: PMC10376500 DOI: 10.3390/ani13142257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Carnivores fulfil important ecological roles in natural systems yet can also jeopardise the persistence of threatened species. Understanding their diet is, therefore, essential for managing populations of carnivores, as well as those of their prey. This study was designed to better understand the diet of an Australian apex predator, the dingo, and determine whether it poses a threat to at-risk small macropods in two floristically different yet geographically close reserves in subtropical Australia. Based on an analysis of 512 scats, dingo diets comprised 34 different prey taxa, of which 50% were common between reserves. Our findings add support to the paradigm that dingoes are opportunistic and generalist predators that prey primarily on abundant mammalian fauna. Their diets in the Border Ranges were dominated by possum species (frequency of occurrence (FOC) = 92.5%), while their diets in Richmond Range were characterised by a high prevalence of pademelon species (FOC = 46.9%). Medium-sized mammals were the most important dietary items in both reserves and across all seasons. The dietary frequency of medium-sized mammals was generally related to their availability (indexed by camera trapping); however, the avoidance of some species with high availability indicates that prey accessibility may also be important in dictating their dietary choices. Other prey categories were supplementary to diets and varied in importance according to seasonal changes in their availability. The diets included two threatened macropods, the red-legged pademelon and black-striped wallaby. Our availability estimates, together with earlier dietary studies spanning 30 years, suggest that the red-legged pademelon is resilient to the observed predation. The black-striped wallaby occurred in only two dingo scats collected from Richmond Range and was not detected by cameras so the threat to this species could not be determined. Two locally abundant but highly threatened species (the koala and long-nosed potoroo) were not detected in the dingoes' diets, suggesting dingoes do not at present pose a threat to these populations. Our study highlights the importance of site-based assessments, population monitoring and including data on prey availability in dietary investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dusty McLean
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW 2480, Australia
| | - Ross Goldingay
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW 2480, Australia
| | - Mike Letnic
- Centre for Ecosystem Science, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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3
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Soga M, Gaston KJ. The dark side of nature experience: Typology, dynamics and implications of negative sensory interactions with nature. PEOPLE AND NATURE 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pan3.10383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Masashi Soga
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo Bunkyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Kevin J. Gaston
- Environment and Sustainability Institute University of Exeter Penryn UK
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4
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Mueller M, Johnson CJ, McNay RS. Influence of maternity penning on the success and timing of parturition by mountain caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou). CAN J ZOOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1139/cjz-2021-0144] [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
Invasive conservation actions that require the capture and handling of individual animals are common, but the implications for both survival and reproduction are often not studied. Across North America, most populations of woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou Gmelin, 1788) are Threatened or Endangered. Maternity penning, where pregnant females are held in an enclosure until the calf is less vulnerable to predation, is one conservation action that is designed to increase population growth. Few studies have reported the influence of maternity penning on the occurrence or timing of parturition and the implications for reproduction. We quantified parturition success and dates of penned and free-ranging caribou within the Klinse-Za population of caribou found across east-central British Columbia, Canada. Parturition dates were identified using daily observations for penned caribou (n=41) and estimated dates for free-ranging caribou (n=27) generated using statistical modelling of GPS collar data. We related parturition outcomes to a range of ecological and environmental variables. We found that the occurrence and date of parturition did not differ between penned and free-ranging caribou. For all monitored animals there was an earlier calving date during years of higher snowfall and warmer winter weather. Our results suggested that maternity penning, a potentially invasive conservation action, did not increase or decrease the probability or date of parturition for this study population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariah Mueller
- University of Northern British Columbia, 6727, Prince George, Canada
| | - Chris J. Johnson
- University of Northern British Columbia, 6727, Department of Ecosystem Science and Management, Prince George, Canada
| | - R. Scott McNay
- Wildlife Infometrics, Inc., Research, Mackenzie, British Columbia, Canada
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5
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Bradley HS, Tomlinson S, Craig MD, Cross AT, Bateman PW. Mitigation translocation as a management tool. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2022; 36:e13667. [PMID: 33210780 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Mitigation translocation is a subgroup of conservation translocation, categorized by a crisis-responsive time frame and the immediate goal of relocating individuals threatened with death. However, the relative successes of conservation translocations with longer time frames and broader metapopulation- and ecosystem-level considerations have been used to justify the continued implementation of mitigation translocations without adequate post hoc monitoring to confirm their effectiveness as a conservation tool. Mitigation translocations now outnumber other conservation translocations, and understanding the effectiveness of mitigation translocations is critical given limited global conservation funding especially if the mitigation translocations undermine biodiversity conservation by failing to save individuals. We assessed the effectiveness of mitigation translocations by conducting a quantitative review of the global literature. A total of 59 mitigation translocations were reviewed for their adherence to the adaptive scientific approach expected of other conservation translocations and for the testing of management options to continue improving techniques for the future. We found that mitigation translocations have not achieved their potential as an effective applied science. Most translocations focused predominantly on population establishment- and persistence-level questions, as is often seen in translocations more broadly, and less on metapopulation and ecosystem outcomes. Questions regarding the long-term impacts to the recipient ecosystem (12% of articles) and the carrying capacity of translocation sites (24% of articles) were addressed least often, despite these factors being more likely to influence ultimate success. Less than half (47%) of studies included comparison of different management techniques to facilitate practitioners selecting the most effective management actions for the future. To align mitigation translocations with the relative success of other conservation translocations, it is critical that future mitigation translocations conform to an established experimental approach to improve their effectiveness. Effective mitigation translocations will require significantly greater investment of time, expertise, and resources in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly S Bradley
- ARC Centre for Mine Site Restoration, School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, Perth, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Sean Tomlinson
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, Perth, WA, 6102, Australia
- Kings Park Science, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Kattij Close, Kings Park, WA, 6005, Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Michael D Craig
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia
- School of Environmental and Conservation Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - Adam T Cross
- ARC Centre for Mine Site Restoration, School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, Perth, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Philip W Bateman
- Behavioural Ecology Laboratory, School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, Perth, WA, 6102, Australia
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6
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Rendall AR, Sutherland DR, Cooke R, White JG. Does the foraging ecology of feral cats change after the eradication of foxes? Biol Invasions 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-021-02718-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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7
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Hunter DO, Letnic M. Dingoes have greater suppressive effect on fox populations than poisoning campaigns. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1071/am21036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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8
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The Dingo Barrier Fence: Presenting the case to decommission the world's longest environmental barrier in the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration 2021-2030. Biol Futur 2021; 73:9-27. [PMID: 34807433 DOI: 10.1007/s42977-021-00106-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The longest environmental barrier in the world is Australia's 5614 km Dingo Barrier Fence. The structure was completed in the 1950s, designed to facilitate the eradication of the country's apex predator and cultural keystone species the dingo (Canis dingo) from sheep (Ovis aries) grazing areas to the south-east of the continent. The fence and its support systems now present an immense obstacle to ecological restoration in Australia's arid zone, preventing traditional management practices, and are hazardous to all terrestrial wildlife in the immediate vicinity. The barrier presents a worst-case scenario for animal-generated seed dispersal patterns over the wider region and limits genetic transfer. Plummeting biodiversity inside the fence line and increasing pressures of climate change have left this region highly vulnerable to ecological collapse. Concurrently, sheep numbers have contracted over 75% in the arid zone since 1991, due to market forces and climate change, while demand for ethically produced goods such as predator-friendly meat production and organic produce is increasing. Decommissioning the Dingo Barrier Fence, moving the stock protection zone south and diversifying land use would not impact significantly on the current livestock production. It offers a sound economic alternative for the region, with the potential for regeneration of 82 million hectares of land, a scale encouraged for inclusion in the global initiative the United Nations Decade for Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030). This would restore connectivity across the region, including vital access to the waters of the Murray Darling Basin. This would provide mitigation for the effects of climate change, new markets in organic and sustainable industries, and support ecological and cultural renewal.
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9
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Castle G, Smith D, Allen LR, Allen BL. Terrestrial mesopredators did not increase after top-predator removal in a large-scale experimental test of mesopredator release theory. Sci Rep 2021; 11:18205. [PMID: 34521924 PMCID: PMC8440509 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-97634-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Removal or loss of top-predators has been predicted to cause cascading negative effects for ecosystems, including mesopredator release. However, reliable evidence for these processes in terrestrial systems has been mixed and equivocal due, in large part, to the systemic and continued use of low-inference study designs to investigate this issue. Even previous large-scale manipulative experiments of strong inferential value have been limited by experimental design features (i.e. failure to prevent migration between treatments) that constrain possible inferences about the presence or absence of mesopredator release effects. Here, we build on these previous strong-inference experiments and report the outcomes of additional large-scale manipulative experiments to eradicate Australian dingoes from two fenced areas where dingo migration was restricted and where theory would predict an increase in extant European red foxes, feral cats and goannas. We demonstrate the removal and suppression of dingoes to undetectable levels over 4–5 years with no corresponding increases in mesopredator relative abundances, which remained low and stable throughout the experiment at both sites. We further demonstrate widespread absence of negative relationships between predators, indicating that the mechanism underpinning predicted mesopredator releases was not present. Our results are consistent with all previous large-scale manipulative experiments and long-term mensurative studies which collectively demonstrate that (1) dingoes do not suppress red foxes, feral cats or goannas at the population level, (2) repeated, temporary suppression of dingoes in open systems does not create mesopredator release effects, and (3) removal and sustained suppression of dingoes to undetectable levels in closed systems does not create mesopredator release effects either. Our experiments add to similar reports from North America, Asia, Europe and southern Africa which indicate that not only is there a widespread absence of reliable evidence for these processes, but there is also a large and continually growing body of experimental evidence of absence for these processes in many terrestrial systems. We conclude that although sympatric predators may interact negatively with each other on smaller spatiotemporal scales, that these negative interactions do not always scale-up to the population level, nor are they always strong enough to create mesopredator suppression or release effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoff Castle
- Institute for Life Sciences and the Environment, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, QLD, 4350, Australia
| | - Deane Smith
- Institute for Life Sciences and the Environment, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, QLD, 4350, Australia.,NSW Department of Primary Industries, Vertebrate Pest Research Unit, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia
| | - Lee R Allen
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Queensland Government, Toowoomba, QLD, 4350, Australia
| | - Benjamin L Allen
- Institute for Life Sciences and the Environment, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, QLD, 4350, Australia. .,Centre for African Conservation Ecology, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, 6034, South Africa.
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10
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Strickland K, Mann J, Foroughirad V, Levengood AL, Frère CH. Maternal effects and fitness consequences of individual variation in bottlenose dolphins' ecological niche. J Anim Ecol 2021; 90:1948-1960. [PMID: 33942312 DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.13513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The niche describes the ecological and social environment that an organism lives in, as well as the behavioural tactics used to interact with its environment. A species niche is key to both ecological and evolutionary processes, including speciation, and has therefore been a central focus in ecology. Recent evidence, however, points to considerable individual variation in a species' or population's niche use, although how this variation evolves or is maintained remains unclear. We used a large longitudinal dataset to investigate the drivers and maintenance of individual variation in bottlenose dolphins' Tursiops aduncus niche. Specifically, we (a) characterised the extent of individual differences in habitat use, (b) identified whether there were maternal effects associated with this variation and (c) investigated the relationship between habitat use and calving success, a component of reproductive fitness. By examining patterns of habitat use, we provide evidence that individual dolphins vary consistently between one another in their niche. We further show that such individual variation is driven by a strong maternal effect. Finally, habitat use and calving success were not related, suggesting that use of different habitats results in similar fitness outcomes. Niche partitioning, maintained by maternal effects, likely facilitates the coexistence of multiple ecotypes within this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasha Strickland
- Global Change Ecology Research Group, University of Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Qld, Australia.,Department of Aquaculture and Fish Biology, Hólar University, Sauðárkrókur, Iceland
| | - Janet Mann
- Department of Biology and Psychology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Vivienne Foroughirad
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA.,Division of Marine Science and Conservation, Duke University Marine Laboratory, Beaufort, NC, USA
| | - Alexis L Levengood
- Global Change Ecology Research Group, University of Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Qld, Australia
| | - Céline H Frère
- Global Change Ecology Research Group, University of Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Qld, Australia
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11
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Conroy GC, Lamont RW, Bridges L, Stephens D, Wardell-Johnson A, Ogbourne SM. Conservation concerns associated with low genetic diversity for K'gari-Fraser Island dingoes. Sci Rep 2021; 11:9503. [PMID: 33947920 PMCID: PMC8097078 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-89056-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The dingo population on world heritage-listed K'gari-Fraser Island (K'gari) is amongst the most well-known in Australia. However, an absence of population genetic data limits capacity for informed conservation management. We used 9 microsatellite loci to compare the levels of genetic diversity and genetic structure of 175 K'gari dingo tissue samples with 264 samples from adjacent mainland regions. Our results demonstrated that the K'gari population has significantly lower genetic diversity than mainland dingoes (AR, HE, PAR; p < 0.05) with a fourfold reduction in effective population size (Ne = 25.7 vs 103.8). There is also strong evidence of genetic differentiation between the island and mainland populations. These results are in accordance with genetic theory for small, isolated, island populations, and most likely the result of low initial diversity and founder effects such as bottlenecks leading to decreased diversity and drift. As the first study to incorporate a large sample set of K'gari dingoes, this provides invaluable baseline data for future research, which should incorporate genetic and demographic monitoring to ensure long-term persistence. Given that human-associated activities will continue to result in dingo mortality, it is critical that genetic factors are considered in conservation management decisions to avoid deleterious consequences for this iconic dingo population.
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Affiliation(s)
- G C Conroy
- Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD, 4558, Australia. .,School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD, 4558, Australia.
| | - R W Lamont
- Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD, 4558, Australia.,School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD, 4558, Australia
| | - L Bridges
- Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD, 4558, Australia.,School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD, 4558, Australia
| | - D Stephens
- Zoological Genetics, Inglewood, Adelaide, SA, 5133, Australia
| | - A Wardell-Johnson
- Senior Professional Fellow, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia
| | - S M Ogbourne
- Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD, 4558, Australia.,School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD, 4558, Australia
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12
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Geary WL, Hradsky BA, Robley A, Wintle BA. Predators, fire or resources: What drives the distribution of herbivores in fragmented mesic forests? AUSTRAL ECOL 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/aec.12861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- William L. Geary
- Quantitative and Applied Ecology Group School of BioSciences University of Melbourne Parkville Melbourne Victoria 3010 Australia
- Biodiversity Division Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning East Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Centre for Integrative Ecology School of Life and Environmental Sciences (Burwood Campus) Deakin University Geelong Victoria Australia
| | - Bronwyn A. Hradsky
- Quantitative and Applied Ecology Group School of BioSciences University of Melbourne Parkville Melbourne Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - Alan Robley
- Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research Heidelberg Victoria Australia
| | - Brendan A. Wintle
- Quantitative and Applied Ecology Group School of BioSciences University of Melbourne Parkville Melbourne Victoria 3010 Australia
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13
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Cunningham CX, Johnson CN, Jones ME. A native apex predator limits an invasive mesopredator and protects native prey: Tasmanian devils protecting bandicoots from cats. Ecol Lett 2020; 23:711-721. [DOI: 10.1111/ele.13473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Calum X. Cunningham
- School of Natural Sciences University of Tasmania Hobart Tasmania 7001 Australia
| | - Christopher N. Johnson
- School of Natural Sciences University of Tasmania Hobart Tasmania 7001 Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage University of Tasmania Hobart Tasmania 7001 Australia
| | - Menna E. Jones
- School of Natural Sciences University of Tasmania Hobart Tasmania 7001 Australia
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14
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Kragt ME, Hay E, Scheufele G, Bennett J, Renton M. Predicting the effectiveness of community anti‐poaching patrols for conserving threatened wildlife in the Lao PDR. J Appl Ecol 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.13527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marit E. Kragt
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment University of Western Australia Crawley WA Australia
- Centre for Environmental Economics and Policy University of Western Australia Crawley WA Australia
| | - Eric Hay
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment University of Western Australia Crawley WA Australia
| | - Gabriela Scheufele
- Crawford School of Public Policy Australian National University Canberra ACT Australia
| | - Jeff Bennett
- Crawford School of Public Policy Australian National University Canberra ACT Australia
| | - Michael Renton
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment University of Western Australia Crawley WA Australia
- School of Biological Sciences University of Western Australia Crawley WA Australia
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15
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Goymann
- Abteilung für Verhaltensneurobiologie Max‐Planck‐Institut für Ornithologie Seewiesen Germany
| | - Martin Küblbeck
- Abteilung für Verhaltensneurobiologie Max‐Planck‐Institut für Ornithologie Seewiesen Germany
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16
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Geary WL, Nimmo DG, Doherty TS, Ritchie EG, Tulloch AIT. Threat webs: Reframing the co‐occurrence and interactions of threats to biodiversity. J Appl Ecol 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.13427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- William L. Geary
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences (Burwood Campus) Deakin University Geelong Vic. Australia
- Biodiversity Division Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning Melbourne Vic. Australia
| | - Dale G. Nimmo
- School of Environmental Science, Institute for Land, Water and Society Charles Sturt University Albury NSW Australia
| | - Tim S. Doherty
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences (Burwood Campus) Deakin University Geelong Vic. Australia
| | - Euan G. Ritchie
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences (Burwood Campus) Deakin University Geelong Vic. Australia
| | - Ayesha I. T. Tulloch
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney NSW Australia
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17
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Cunningham CX, Johnson CN, Jones ME. Harnessing the power of ecological interactions to reduce the impacts of feral cats. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/14888386.2019.1585289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Christopher N. Johnson
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Menna E. Jones
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
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18
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Brink H, Purcell BV, Letnic M, Webster HS, Appleby RG, Jordan NR. Pets and pests: a review of the contrasting economics and fortunes of dingoes and domestic dogs in Australia, and a proposed new funding scheme for non-lethal dingo management. WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2019. [DOI: 10.1071/wr19030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Carnivore conservation and management is complex and expensive, and significant ongoing management costs may inhibit the development of new tools and any subsequent transition away from lethal control. We review and compare the economic costs and benefits of dingoes and domestic dogs in Australia and suggest that public affinity for domestic dogs may be co-opted into yielding more positive management outcomes for dingoes. Whereas Australians spend over AU$10 billion annually on purchasing and maintaining 4.2 million domestic dogs, landowners and government spend at least AU$30 million attempting to limit the density and distribution of dingoes, feral dogs, and their hybrids. These contrasting investments highlight the dual response of society towards domestic and wild members of the Canis genus. We suggest that a modest conservation levy on the sale of pet dogs or dog food, or both, could secure long-term funding to support efficacious non-lethal management of dingo impacts. A modest levy could generate AU$30 million annually, funding the development of non-lethal dingo-management tools without compromising existing management practices while new tools are investigated. Ultimately, a transition away from controlling dingoes through culling or exclusion fencing, to managing the negative impacts of dingoes could result in both more successful and sustainable management outcomes of dingoes and support the ecological, cultural and economic benefits they confer as Australia’s apex predator.
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19
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Leo V, Reading RP, Gordon C, Letnic M. Apex predator suppression is linked to restructuring of ecosystems via multiple ecological pathways. OIKOS 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/oik.05546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Viyanna Leo
- Centre for Ecosystem Science, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Univ. of New South Wales Sydney 2052 NSW Australiaq
- Australian Wildlife Conservancy, North Head Manly 2095 Australia
| | - Richard P. Reading
- Dept of Biological Sciences and Graduate School of Social Work, Univ. of Denver Denver CO USA
| | - Christopher Gordon
- Centre for Environmental Risk Management of Bushfires, Univ. of Wollongong Australia
| | - Mike Letnic
- Centre for Ecosystem Science, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Univ. of New South Wales Sydney 2052 NSW Australiaq
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20
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Derham TT, Duncan RP, Johnson CN, Jones ME. Hope and caution: rewilding to mitigate the impacts of biological invasions. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2018; 373:rstb.2018.0127. [PMID: 30348875 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2018.0127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Rewilding is a novel approach to ecological restoration. Trophic rewilding in particular aims to reinstate ecological functions, especially trophic interactions, through the introduction of animals. We consider the potential for trophic rewilding to address biological invasions. In this broad review, we note some of the important conceptual and ethical foundations of rewilding, including a focus on ecosystem function rather than composition, reliance on animal agency, and an appeal to an ethic of coexistence. Second, we use theory from invasion biology to highlight pathways by which rewilding might prevent or mitigate the impacts of an invasion, including increasing biotic resistance. Third, we use a series of case studies to illustrate how reintroductions can mitigate the impacts of invasions. These include reintroductions and positive management of carnivores and herbivores including European pine martens (Martes martes), Eurasian otters (Lutra lutra), dingoes (Canis dingo), Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii) and tule elk (Cervus canadensis nannodes). Fourth, we consider the risk that rewilding may enable a biological invasion or aggravate its impacts. Lastly, we highlight lessons that rewilding science might take from invasion biology.This article is part of the theme issue 'Trophic rewilding: consequences for ecosystems under global change'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tristan T Derham
- School of Natural Sciences and Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage (CABAH), University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia
| | - Richard P Duncan
- Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Christopher N Johnson
- School of Natural Sciences and Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage (CABAH), University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia
| | - Menna E Jones
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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21
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Lyons MB, Mills CH, Gordon CE, Letnic M. Linking trophic cascades to changes in desert dune geomorphology using high-resolution drone data. J R Soc Interface 2018; 15:rsif.2018.0327. [PMID: 29973403 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2018.0327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vegetation cover is fundamental in the formation and maintenance of geomorphological features in dune systems. In arid Australia, increased woody shrub cover has been linked to removal of the apex predator (Dingoes, Canis dingo) via subsequent trophic cascades. We ask whether this increase in shrubs can be linked to altered physical characteristics of the dunes. We used drone-based remote sensing to measure shrub density and construct three-dimensional models of dune morphology. Dunes had significantly different physical characteristics either side of the 'dingo-proof fence', inside which dingoes are systematically eradicated and shrub density is higher over vast spatial extents. Generalized additive models revealed that dunes with increased shrub density were higher, differently shaped and more variable in height profile. We propose that low shrub density induces aeolian and sedimentary processes that result in greater surface erosion and sediment transport, whereas high shrub density promotes dune stability. We speculate that increased vegetation cover acts to push dunes towards an alternate stable state, where climatic variation no longer has a significant effect on their morphodynamic state within the bi-stable state model. Our study provides evidence that anthropogenically induced trophic cascades can indirectly lead to large-scale changes in landscape geomorphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell B Lyons
- Centre for Ecosystem Science, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW Australia, Sydney 2052, Australia
| | - Charlotte H Mills
- Centre for Ecosystem Science, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW Australia, Sydney 2052, Australia
| | - Christopher E Gordon
- Centre for Environmental Risk Management of Bushfires, University of Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia
| | - Mike Letnic
- Centre for Ecosystem Science, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW Australia, Sydney 2052, Australia
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22
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Lurgi M, Ritchie EG, Fordham DA. Eradicating abundant invasive prey could cause unexpected and varied biodiversity outcomes: The importance of multispecies interactions. J Appl Ecol 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.13188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Lurgi
- The Environment Institute and School of Biological Sciences; University of Adelaide; Adelaide SA Australia
- Ecological Networks and Global Change Group; Theoretical and Experimental Ecology Station; CNRS and Paul Sabatier University; Moulis France
| | - Euan G. Ritchie
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences; Centre for Integrative Ecology; Deakin University; Geelong VIC Australia
| | - Damien A. Fordham
- The Environment Institute and School of Biological Sciences; University of Adelaide; Adelaide SA Australia
- Center for Macroecology, Evolution, and Climate; National Museum of Denmark; University of Copenhagen; Copenhagen Denmark
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23
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Rich M, Thompson C, Prange S, Popescu VD. Relative Importance of Habitat Characteristics and Interspecific Relations in Determining Terrestrial Carnivore Occurrence. Front Ecol Evol 2018. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2018.00078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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24
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Cairns KM, Shannon LM, Koler-Matznick J, Ballard JWO, Boyko AR. Elucidating biogeographical patterns in Australian native canids using genome wide SNPs. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0198754. [PMID: 29889854 PMCID: PMC5995383 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0198754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Dingoes play a strong role in Australia's ecological framework as the apex predator but are under threat from hybridization and agricultural control programs. Government legislation lists the conservation of the dingo as an important aim, yet little is known about the biogeography of this enigmatic canine, making conservation difficult. Mitochondrial and Y chromosome DNA studies show evidence of population structure within the dingo. Here, we present the data from Illumina HD canine chip genotyping for 23 dingoes from five regional populations, and five New Guinea Singing Dogs to further explore patterns of biogeography using genome-wide data. Whole genome single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data supported the presence of three distinct dingo populations (or ESUs) subject to geographical subdivision: southeastern (SE), Fraser Island (FI) and northwestern (NW). These ESUs should be managed discretely. The FI dingoes are a known reservoir of pure, genetically distinct dingoes. Elevated inbreeding coefficients identified here suggest this population may be genetically compromised and in need of rescue; current lethal management strategies that do not consider genetic information should be suspended until further data can be gathered. D statistics identify evidence of historical admixture or ancestry sharing between southeastern dingoes and South East Asian village dogs. Conservation efforts on mainland Australia should focus on the SE dingo population that is under pressure from domestic dog hybridization and high levels of lethal control. Further data concerning the genetic health, demographics and prevalence of hybridization in the SE and FI dingo populations is urgently needed to develop evidence based conservation and management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylie M. Cairns
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Laura M. Shannon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Janice Koler-Matznick
- The New Guinea Singing Dog Conservation Society, Central Point, Oregon, United States of America
| | - J. William O. Ballard
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Adam R. Boyko
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
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25
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Ecological Role of an Apex Predator Revealed by a Reintroduction Experiment and Bayesian Statistics. Ecosystems 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s10021-018-0269-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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26
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Geary WL, Ritchie EG, Lawton JA, Healey TR, Nimmo DG. Incorporating disturbance into trophic ecology: Fire history shapes mesopredator suppression by an apex predator. J Appl Ecol 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.13125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- William L. Geary
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences; Centre for Integrative Ecology (Burwood Campus); Deakin University; Burwood Vic. Australia
| | - Euan G. Ritchie
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences; Centre for Integrative Ecology (Burwood Campus); Deakin University; Burwood Vic. Australia
| | - Jessica A. Lawton
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences; Centre for Integrative Ecology (Burwood Campus); Deakin University; Burwood Vic. Australia
| | - Thomas R. Healey
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences; Centre for Integrative Ecology (Burwood Campus); Deakin University; Burwood Vic. Australia
| | - Dale G. Nimmo
- School of Environmental Science; Institute for Land, Water and Society; Charles Sturt University; Albury NSW Australia
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27
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Hunter DO, Lagisz M, Leo V, Nakagawa S, Letnic M. Not all predators are equal: a continent‐scale analysis of the effects of predator control on Australian mammals. Mamm Rev 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/mam.12115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel O. Hunter
- Centre for Ecosystem Science University of New South Wales NSW 2052 Sydney Australia
| | - Malgorzata Lagisz
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre and School of Biological Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales NSW 2052 Sydney Australia
| | - Viyanna Leo
- Centre for Ecosystem Science University of New South Wales NSW 2052 Sydney Australia
| | - Shinichi Nakagawa
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre and School of Biological Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales NSW 2052 Sydney Australia
| | - Mike Letnic
- Centre for Ecosystem Science University of New South Wales NSW 2052 Sydney Australia
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28
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Feit B, Gordon CE, Webb JK, Jessop TS, Laffan SW, Dempster T, Letnic M. Invasive cane toads might initiate cascades of direct and indirect effects in a terrestrial ecosystem. Biol Invasions 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-018-1665-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/24/2023]
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29
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Reprint of: The case for a dingo reintroduction in Australia remains strong: A reply to Morgan et al., 2016. FOOD WEBS 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fooweb.2017.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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30
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Sivy KJ, Pozzanghera CB, Grace JB, Prugh LR. Fatal Attraction? Intraguild Facilitation and Suppression among Predators. Am Nat 2017; 190:663-679. [PMID: 29053355 DOI: 10.1086/693996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Competition and suppression are recognized as dominant forces that structure predator communities. Facilitation via carrion provisioning, however, is a ubiquitous interaction among predators that could offset the strength of suppression. Understanding the relative importance of these positive and negative interactions is necessary to anticipate community-wide responses to apex predator declines and recoveries worldwide. Using state-sponsored wolf (Canis lupus) control in Alaska as a quasi experiment, we conducted snow track surveys of apex, meso-, and small predators to test for evidence of carnivore cascades (e.g., mesopredator release). We analyzed survey data using an integrative occupancy and structural equation modeling framework to quantify the strengths of hypothesized interaction pathways, and we evaluated fine-scale spatiotemporal responses of nonapex predators to wolf activity clusters identified from radio-collar data. Contrary to the carnivore cascade hypothesis, both meso- and small predator occupancy patterns indicated guild-wide, negative responses of nonapex predators to wolf abundance variations at the landscape scale. At the local scale, however, we observed a near guild-wide, positive response of nonapex predators to localized wolf activity. Local-scale association with apex predators due to scavenging could lead to landscape patterns of mesopredator suppression, suggesting a key link between occupancy patterns and the structure of predator communities at different spatial scales.
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31
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Allen BL, Allen LR, Andrén H, Ballard G, Boitani L, Engeman RM, Fleming PJ, Ford AT, Haswell PM, Kowalczyk R, Linnell JD, David Mech L, Parker DM. Can we save large carnivores without losing large carnivore science? FOOD WEBS 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fooweb.2017.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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32
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33
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34
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Abstract
Expanding human populations favors a few species while extinguishing and endangering many others (Maxwell et al., 2016; Pimm et al., 2014). Understanding how animals perceive and learn about dangers and rewards can aid conservationists seeking to limit abundant or restore rare species (Schakner and Blumstein, 2016; Greggor et al., 2014; Angeloni et al., 2008; Fernández-Juricic and Schulte, 2016). Cognition research is informing conservation science by suggesting how naïve prey learn novel predators (Griffin et al., 2000; Moseby et al., 2015; Schakner et al., 2016; Blumstein, 2016), the mechanisms underlying variation in tolerance of human disturbance (Bostwick et al., 2014), and when natural aversions and fear learning can be leveraged to humanely control predators (Nielsen et al., 2015; Colman et al., 2014; Norbury et al., 2014; Lance et al., 2010; Cross et al., 2013). Insights into the relationships between cognition and adaptability suggest that behavioral inflexibility often presages species rarity (Amiel et al., 2011; Reif et al., 2011; Sol et al., 2008; Zhang et al., 2014; but see Kellert, 1984). Human compassion and restraint are ultimately required to conserve species. Cognitive science can therefore further inform conservation by revealing the complex inner worlds of the animals we threaten and, in partnership with environmental psychologists, explore how such newfound knowledge affects our empathy for other species and ultimately the public's actions on behalf of species in need of conservation (Collado et al., 2013; Zhang et al., 2014).
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35
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The case for a dingo reintroduction in Australia remains strong: A reply to Morgan et al., 2016. FOOD WEBS 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fooweb.2017.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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36
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Wallach AD, Ramp D, O’Neill AJ. Cattle mortality on a predator-friendly station in central Australia. J Mammal 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyw156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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37
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Suraci JP, Clinchy M, Zanette LY. Do Large Carnivores and Mesocarnivores Have Redundant Impacts on Intertidal Prey? PLoS One 2017; 12:e0170255. [PMID: 28085962 PMCID: PMC5235380 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0170255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 12/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of large carnivores can affect lower trophic levels by suppressing mesocarnivores and reducing their impacts on prey. The mesopredator release hypothesis therefore predicts prey abundance will be higher where large carnivores are present, but this prediction assumes limited dietary overlap between large and mesocarnivores. Where dietary overlap is high, e.g., among omnivorous carnivore species, or where prey are relatively easily accessible, the potential exists for large and mesocarnivores to have redundant impacts on prey, though this possibility has not been explored. The intertidal community represents a potentially important but poorly studied resource for coastal carnivore populations, and one for which dietary overlap between carnivores may be high. To evaluate usage of the intertidal community by coastal carnivores and the potential for redundancy between large and mesocarnivores, we surveyed (i) intertidal prey abundance (crabs and fish) and (ii) the abundance and activity of large carnivores (predominantly black bears) and mesocarnivores (raccoons and mink) in an area with an intact carnivore community in coastal British Columbia, Canada. Overall carnivore activity was strongly related to intertidal prey availability. Notably, this relationship was not contingent on carnivore species identity, suggestive of redundancy–high intertidal prey availability was associated with either greater large carnivore activity or greater mesocarnivore activity. We then compared intertidal prey abundances in this intact system, in which bears dominate, with those in a nearby system where bears and other large carnivores have been extirpated, and raccoons are the primary intertidal predator. We found significant similarities in intertidal species abundances, providing additional evidence for redundancy between large (bear) and mesocarnivore (raccoon) impacts on intertidal prey. Taken together, our results indicate that intertidal prey shape habitat use and competition among coastal carnivores, and raise the interesting possibility of redundancy between mesocarnivores and large carnivores in their role as intertidal top predators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin P. Suraci
- Department of Biology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Raincoast Conservation Foundation, Sidney, BC, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - Michael Clinchy
- Department of Biology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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38
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Abstract
Human cystic echinococcosis (CE) has been eliminated or significantly reduced as a public health problem in several previously highly endemic regions. This has been achieved by the long-term application of prevention and control measures primarily targeted to deworming dogs, health education, meat inspection, and effective surveillance in livestock and human populations. Human CE, however, remains a serious neglected zoonotic disease in many resource-poor pastoral regions. The incidence of human alveolar echinococcosis (AE) has increased in continental Europe and is a major public health problem in parts of Eurasia. Better understanding of wildlife ecology for fox and small mammal hosts has enabled targeted anthelmintic baiting of fox populations and development of spatially explicit models to predict population dynamics for key intermediate host species and human AE risk in endemic landscapes. Challenges that remain for echinococcosis control include effective intervention in resource-poor communities, better availability of surveillance tools, optimal application of livestock vaccination, and management and ecology of dog and wildlife host populations.
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39
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Gordon CE, Eldridge DJ, Ripple WJ, Crowther MS, Moore BD, Letnic M. Shrub encroachment is linked to extirpation of an apex predator. J Anim Ecol 2016; 86:147-157. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.12607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher E. Gordon
- Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment Western Sydney University Penrith NSW 2751 Australia
- Centre for Ecosystem Science University of New South Wales Sydney NSW 2052 Australia
- Centre for Environmental Risk Management of Bushfires University of Wollongong Wollongong NSW 2522 Australia
| | - David J. Eldridge
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences University of New South Wales Sydney NSW 2052 Australia
| | - William J. Ripple
- Global Trophic Cascades Program Forest Ecosystems and Society Oregon State University Corvallis OR 97331 USA
| | - Mathew S. Crowther
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Ben D. Moore
- Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment Western Sydney University Penrith NSW 2751 Australia
| | - Mike Letnic
- Centre for Ecosystem Science University of New South Wales Sydney NSW 2052 Australia
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences University of New South Wales Sydney NSW 2052 Australia
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40
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Wallach AD, Dekker AH, Lurgi M, Montoya JM, Fordham DA, Ritchie EG. Trophic cascades in 3D: network analysis reveals how apex predators structure ecosystems. Methods Ecol Evol 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/2041-210x.12663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Arian D. Wallach
- Centre for Compassionate Conservation School of Life Sciences University of Technology Sydney PO Box 123 Broadway Ultimo NSW 2007 Australia
| | - Anthony H. Dekker
- Federation University (Ballarat) Mt Helen PO Box 663 Ballarat Vic. 3353 Australia
| | - Miguel Lurgi
- Ecological Networks and Global Change Group Theoretical and Experimental Ecology Station CNRS and Paul Sabatier University Moulis 09200 France
- The Environment Institute & School of Biological Sciences University of Adelaide Adelaide SA 5005 Australia
| | - Jose M. Montoya
- Ecological Networks and Global Change Group Theoretical and Experimental Ecology Station CNRS and Paul Sabatier University Moulis 09200 France
| | - Damien A. Fordham
- The Environment Institute & School of Biological Sciences University of Adelaide Adelaide SA 5005 Australia
| | - Euan G. Ritchie
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences Centre for Integrative Ecology (Burwood Campus) Deakin University 221 Burwood Highway Burwood Vic. 3125 Australia
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41
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Dorresteijn I, Schultner J, Nimmo DG, Fischer J, Hanspach J, Kuemmerle T, Kehoe L, Ritchie EG. Incorporating anthropogenic effects into trophic ecology: predator-prey interactions in a human-dominated landscape. Proc Biol Sci 2016; 282:rspb.2015.1602. [PMID: 26336169 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2015.1602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Apex predators perform important functions that regulate ecosystems worldwide. However, little is known about how ecosystem regulation by predators is influenced by human activities. In particular, how important are top-down effects of predators relative to direct and indirect human-mediated bottom-up and top-down processes? Combining data on species' occurrence from camera traps and hunting records, we aimed to quantify the relative effects of top-down and bottom-up processes in shaping predator and prey distributions in a human-dominated landscape in Transylvania, Romania. By global standards this system is diverse, including apex predators (brown bear and wolf), mesopredators (red fox) and large herbivores (roe and red deer). Humans and free-ranging dogs represent additional predators in the system. Using structural equation modelling, we found that apex predators suppress lower trophic levels, especially herbivores. However, direct and indirect top-down effects of humans affected the ecosystem more strongly, influencing species at all trophic levels. Our study highlights the need to explicitly embed humans and their influences within trophic cascade theory. This will greatly expand our understanding of species interactions in human-modified landscapes, which compose the majority of the Earth's terrestrial surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ine Dorresteijn
- Faculty of Sustainability, Leuphana University Lüneburg, Rotenbleicher Weg 67, 21335 Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Jannik Schultner
- Faculty of Sustainability, Leuphana University Lüneburg, Rotenbleicher Weg 67, 21335 Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Dale G Nimmo
- Institute for Land, Water and Society, Charles Sturt University, Albury 2640, Australia
| | - Joern Fischer
- Faculty of Sustainability, Leuphana University Lüneburg, Rotenbleicher Weg 67, 21335 Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Jan Hanspach
- Faculty of Sustainability, Leuphana University Lüneburg, Rotenbleicher Weg 67, 21335 Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Tobias Kuemmerle
- Geography Department, Humboldt-University Berlin, Unter den Linden 6, 10099 Berlin, Germany Integrative Research Institute on Transformations in Human-Environment Systems (IRI THESys), Humboldt-University Berlin, Unter den Linden 6, 10099 Berlin, Germany
| | - Laura Kehoe
- Geography Department, Humboldt-University Berlin, Unter den Linden 6, 10099 Berlin, Germany
| | - Euan G Ritchie
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria 3125, Australia
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42
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Johnson CN, Wallach AD. The virtuous circle: predator-friendly farming and ecological restoration in Australia. Restor Ecol 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/rec.12396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chris N. Johnson
- School of Biological Sciences; University of Tasmania; Private Bag 55 Hobart Tasmania 7001 Australia
| | - Arian D. Wallach
- Centre for Compassionate Conservation, School of Life Sciences; University of Technology Sydney; P.O. Box 123 Broadway Ultimo NSW 2007 Australia
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43
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Doherty TS, Ritchie EG. Stop Jumping the Gun: A Call for Evidence-Based Invasive Predator Management. Conserv Lett 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/conl.12251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tim S. Doherty
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, Deakin University, School of Life and Environmental Sciences; 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125 Geelong Australia
| | - Euan G. Ritchie
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, Deakin University, School of Life and Environmental Sciences; 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC 3125 Geelong Australia
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44
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Parr WCH, Wilson LAB, Wroe S, Colman NJ, Crowther MS, Letnic M. Cranial Shape and the Modularity of Hybridization in Dingoes and Dogs; Hybridization Does Not Spell the End for Native Morphology. Evol Biol 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s11692-016-9371-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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45
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Wallach AD, Bekoff M, Nelson MP, Ramp D. Promoting predators and compassionate conservation. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2015; 29:1481-1484. [PMID: 25976274 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.12525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2014] [Accepted: 02/23/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Arian D Wallach
- Dingo for Biodiversity Project, P.O. Box 156, Mount Perry, 4671, Queensland, Australia
- Charles Darwin University, School of Environment, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Centre for Compassionate Conservation, School of the Environment, University of Technology Sydney, P.O. Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Marc Bekoff
- Centre for Compassionate Conservation, School of the Environment, University of Technology Sydney, P.O. Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, 80309, U.S.A
| | - Michael Paul Nelson
- Department of Forest Ecosystems and Society, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, U.S.A
| | - Daniel Ramp
- Centre for Compassionate Conservation, School of the Environment, University of Technology Sydney, P.O. Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
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46
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Lawes MJ, Fisher DO, Johnson CN, Blomberg SP, Frank ASK, Fritz SA, McCallum H, VanDerWal J, Abbott BN, Legge S, Letnic M, Thomas CR, Thurgate N, Fisher A, Gordon IJ, Kutt A. Correlates of Recent Declines of Rodents in Northern and Southern Australia: Habitat Structure Is Critical. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0130626. [PMID: 26111037 PMCID: PMC4482364 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0130626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 05/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Australia has experienced dramatic declines and extinctions of its native rodent species over the last 200 years, particularly in southern Australia. In the tropical savanna of northern Australia significant declines have occurred only in recent decades. The later onset of these declines suggests that the causes may differ from earlier declines in the south. We examine potential regional effects (northern versus southern Australia) on biological and ecological correlates of range decline in Australian rodents. We demonstrate that rodent declines have been greater in the south than in the tropical north, are strongly influenced by phylogeny, and are consistently greater for species inhabiting relatively open or sparsely vegetated habitat. Unlike in marsupials, where some species have much larger body size than rodents, body mass was not an important predictor of decline in rodents. All Australian rodent species are within the prey-size range of cats (throughout the continent) and red foxes (in the south). Contrary to the hypothesis that mammal declines are related directly to ecosystem productivity (annual rainfall), our results are consistent with the hypothesis that disturbances such as fire and grazing, which occur in non-rainforest habitats and remove cover used by rodents for shelter, nesting and foraging, increase predation risk. We agree with calls to introduce conservation management that limits the size and intensity of fires, increases fire patchiness and reduces grazing impacts at ecological scales appropriate for rodents. Controlling feral predators, even creating predator-free reserves in relatively sparsely-vegetated habitats, is urgently required to ensure the survival of rodent species, particularly in northern Australia where declines are not yet as severe as those in the south.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Lawes
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Diana O. Fisher
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Chris N. Johnson
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia
| | - Simon P. Blomberg
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Anke S. K. Frank
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia
- Flora and Fauna Division, Northern Territory Department of Land Resource Management, PO Box 496, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Susanne A. Fritz
- Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (BiK-F) & Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Hamish McCallum
- School of Environment, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Sydney, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jeremy VanDerWal
- Centre for Climate Change and Tropical Biology, School of Marine and Tropical Biology, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Brett N. Abbott
- CSIRO—Land and Water—Australian Tropical Sciences Precinct, PMB PO, Aitkenvale, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sarah Legge
- Australian Wildlife Conservancy, PO Box 8070, Subiaco East, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- National Environmental Research Program Northern Australia Hub, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern TerritoryT, Australia
| | - Mike Letnic
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Nikki Thurgate
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Terrestrial Ecosystems Research Network, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Alaric Fisher
- Flora and Fauna Division, Northern Territory Department of Land Resource Management, PO Box 496, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- National Environmental Research Program Northern Australia Hub, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern TerritoryT, Australia
| | - Iain J. Gordon
- James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie Dundee, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Alex Kutt
- ARCUE, School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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47
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Gordon CE, Feit A, Grüber J, Letnic M. Mesopredator suppression by an apex predator alleviates the risk of predation perceived by small prey. Proc Biol Sci 2015; 282:rspb.2014.2870. [PMID: 25652837 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2014.2870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Predators can impact their prey via consumptive effects that occur through direct killing, and via non-consumptive effects that arise when the behaviour and phenotypes of prey shift in response to the risk of predation. Although predators' consumptive effects can have cascading population-level effects on species at lower trophic levels there is less evidence that predators' non-consumptive effects propagate through ecosystems. Here we provide evidence that suppression of abundance and activity of a mesopredator (the feral cat) by an apex predator (the dingo) has positive effects on both abundance and foraging efficiency of a desert rodent. Then by manipulating predators' access to food patches we further the idea that apex predators provide small prey with refuge from predation by showing that rodents increased their habitat breadth and use of 'risky' food patches where an apex predator was common but mesopredators rare. Our study suggests that apex predators' suppressive effects on mesopredators extend to alleviate both mesopredators' consumptive and non-consumptive effects on prey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher E Gordon
- Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, University of Western Sydney, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia Centre for Ecosystem Science, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Anna Feit
- Centre for Ecosystem Science, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Jennifer Grüber
- Centre for Ecosystem Science, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Mike Letnic
- Centre for Ecosystem Science, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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48
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Wallach AD, Ripple WJ, Carroll SP. Novel trophic cascades: apex predators enable coexistence. Trends Ecol Evol 2015; 30:146-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2015.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Revised: 01/05/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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49
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Nimmo DG, Watson SJ, Forsyth DM, Bradshaw CJA. FORUM: Dingoes can help conserve wildlife and our methods can tell. J Appl Ecol 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.12369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dale G. Nimmo
- Centre for Integrative Ecology; School of Life and Environmental Sciences; Deakin University; Burwood Vic. 3125 Australia
| | - Simon J. Watson
- Department of Zoology; La Trobe University; Bundoora Vic. 3086 Australia
| | - David M. Forsyth
- Department of Environment and Primary Industries; Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research; 123 Brown Street Heidelberg Vic. 3084 Australia
| | - Corey J. A. Bradshaw
- The Environment Institute and School of Earth and Environmental Sciences; The University of Adelaide; Adelaide SA 5005 Australia
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50
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Colman NJ, Gordon CE, Crowther MS, Letnic M. Response to Allen 'An alternative hypothesis to the conclusion of Colman et al. (2014)'. Proc Biol Sci 2015; 282:20141845. [PMID: 25473010 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2014.1845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- N J Colman
- Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, University of Western Sydney, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, New South Wales 2751, Australia Centre for Ecosystem Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - C E Gordon
- Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, University of Western Sydney, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, New South Wales 2751, Australia Centre for Ecosystem Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - M S Crowther
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - M Letnic
- Centre for Ecosystem Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
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