Bears are simply voles writ large: social structure determines the mechanisms of intrinsic population regulation in mammals

摘要: The literature reveals opposing views regarding the importance of intrinsic population regulation in mammals. Different models have been proposed; adding to contrasting life histories, body sizes and social interactions. Here we evaluate current theory based on results from two Scandinavian projects studying ecologically different mammal species with history traits: root vole Microtus oeconomus brown bear Ursus arctos. We emphasize four inter-linked behavioral aspects—territoriality, dispersal, inhibition breeding, infanticide—that together form a density-dependent syndrome potentially regulatory effects growth. show that are similar all behaviors thus overall syndrome. Females matrilineal assemblages, female natal dispersal is negatively density dependent breeding suppressed philopatric young females. In both species, male turnover due extrinsic mortality agents cause infanticide negative sex-biased patterns promote formation clusters which, turn, leads reproductive suppression effects. Hence, interacting may occur irrespective taxon, size. Our review stresses significance mechanistic approach understanding ecology. also experimental model populations useful elucidate natural other systems. particular, such experiments should be combined methodical innovations unravel cryptic mechanisms as infanticide.