Small mammal community structure in West Africa: a meta-analysis using null models

摘要: Peer-reviewed studies on the community structure of small mammals (Rodentia and Soricomorpha) from Gulf Guinea region West Africa were reviewed. To detect nonrandom patterns in various assemblages under study, original datasets re-analysed using null models [two independent randomization algorithms (RA) for niche overlap] Monte Carlo simulations. The total species richness countries considered this review was 45 soricomorphs 101 rodents, reviewed here reported data 53.3% these soricomorph 76.2% rodent species. Nonrandom habitat partitioning rarely observed both rodents soricomorphs. Instead, aggregated use resources frequently detected groups. Forest generally selected as aggregating resource type by mammal assemblages. Thus, contrary to expectations, our revealed little evidence interspecific competition along axis African mammals. However, it is possible that forest may be apparent, but partitioned space at a lower scale, instance selecting different microhabitats. Interspecific appeared stronger altered habitats, predicted previous other organisms Africa.