The ecology of three communities of small mammals at different altitudes in Malawi, Central Africa

摘要: This study compares the results of three studies and assesses effects seasonal changes in environment on populations small mammals at altitudes Malawi (Zomba Plateau [1900 m], Liwonde National Park [550 m] Lengwe [100 m]). Zomba had a higher annual rainfall (mean 2244 mm), longer wet season, shorter dry cooler temperatures smaller water deficit than either NP or (which similar climates). Maximum grass biomass (and fluctuation index) was 814 g/m2 (1.7) Plateau, 1066 (2.7) Liwonde, 854 (30.5) Lengwe. Sixteen species rodents were recorded, 7–9 each area; did not occur lower altitudes, altitude Plateau. Percentage Similarity Coefficients Community showed that there considerable similarity between Lengwe, but no them Mean population densities (range, 23/ha (15–35, 2.3) 12.6 (2.7–19.1, 7.1) 14.5 (0.9–30.9, 33.9) Stability tends to confer stability demographic characteristics. Reproduction mainly confined season (December April) all altitudes. Comparison proportion new individuals month, duration residence by individuals, suggests turnover slowest fastest There evidence for reduced litter size, opportunity reproduction, increased age maturity highest compared with as has been recorded temperate environments.