Dingo interactions with exotic mesopredators: spatiotemporal dynamics in an Australian arid-zone study

摘要: Context Apex predators occupy the top level of trophic cascade and often perform regulatory functions in many ecosystems. Their removal has been shown to increase herbivore mesopredator populations, ultimately reduce species diversity. In Australia, it proposed that apex predator, dingo (Canis dingo), potential act as a biological control agent for two introduced mesopredators, red fox (Vulpes vulpes) feral cat (Felis catus). Understanding mechanisms interaction among three may assist determining effectiveness benefits lower-order species. Aims To test hypotheses cats foxes attempt both temporally avoid dingoes spatially areas high use. Methods Static dynamic methodologies based on global positioning system (GPS) telemetry data were applied temporal spatial interactions between mesopredators (n = 15) pair (n = 2). The experimental behavioural study was conducted 37-km2 fenced enclosure located arid South Australia. Key results analysis detected neither attraction nor avoidance or at short scales. There no suggestion delayed interactions, indicating not actively hunting basis olfactory signalling. However, static suggested that, although broad home ranges overlapped with dingoes, core mutually exclusive. This despite similar habitat preferences Conclusions We found patterns apparent when testing intervals, but manifested larger Results support previous work kill opportunistically rather than through active hunting. Implications Core provide refuge small mammals reptiles, benefit threatened prey by creating mesopredator-free space. variation home-range size exclusive further is required determine whether these meaningful sanctuaries prey.