Dental microwear textural analyses to track feeding ecology of reindeer: a comparison of two contrasting populations in Norway

摘要: Using dental microwear textural analysis, we aim to explore variations in feeding habits within and between wild reindeer populations (Rangifer tarandus) Norway. Specimens from the two areas of Knutsho Hardangervidda were hunted late August end September 2014, found share very similar topological ecological characteristics (continental alpine tundra). Despite homogenisation plant resources at snow-free period, analysis on cheek teeth indicates differences behaviors populations, that might display a more “grazing” signal than ones Hardangervidda. Such textures reflect could be linked with population density reindeer. The is lower Hardangervidda, where primary food like grasses, sedges, lichens are less abundant. Analyses also show gender for Knutsho, but studies necessary clearest interpretation data. Our results emphasize need local monthly time frame order better assess versatility before applying this kind either extant or extinct multi-population scales.