Roles for the Canidae in food webs reviewed: Where do they fit?

摘要: Abstract The roles of the 37 species in family Canidae (the dog family), are great current interest. Gray Wolf is largest canid and their food webs much researched, as those Domestic Dogs, Coyotes Red Foxes. Much less known about other ecological roles. Here we describe general web theory potential application network to it; summarise possible predators webs; document occurrence, diet presumed functions that canids play throughout world; give case studies four threatened top, middle basal trophic positions six anthropogenically affected species; identify knowledge limitations propose research frameworks necessary establish webs. Canids can be top-down drivers systems or responsive availability resources including suitable prey. They by habitat change, lethal control changes basic resource availability. sustainable yield harvesters indigenous prey passengers complex ecosystems, some larger predators. Nevertheless, most generally poorly studied described, some, e.g. Wolves, Australian dingoes, controversial. We advocate mensurative experimental into communities ecosystems containing for a quantitative understanding consequent development better management strategies ecosystems.