Rating the rat: Global patterns and research priorities in impacts and management of rodent pests

摘要: We report the results of first systematic assessment global patterns and research priorities emerging in field rodent pest management. carried out an extensive literature review targeted towards identifying most relevant pests, their impacts common methods used to control them. We identified three disproportionally important species that are characterized by severe, generalist geographically widespread impacts: black rat Rattus rattus, Norway norvegicus house mouse Mus musculus. Overall, only 7% known may be considered pests. Scansorial (i.e. terrestrial semi-arboreal) fossorial generally as while aquatic arboreal have specific impacts. Impacts pests on arable crops were studied most, followed ecosystems. Studies typical countries with low net income health expenditure, opposite was observed for studies Poisons commonly method, traps habitat The need is expanding, especially protect ecosystems public health. Unlike other fields management (e.g. insect control), we approaching new problems old solutions; strategies not kept pace impacts. The a higher when it non-native than within its original geographical range. impact native range good predictor areas introduction. Our will contribute guiding researchers stakeholders focus efforts investments subset species, new, less hazardous techniques.