Ecology of small rodents in Africa

摘要: This account considers progress in research on small rodent ecology since about 1970. While some ecological survey has been undertaken throughout much of the continent, main thrust involved detailed examination population processes a range habitats from deserts to tropical rain forests. The and semi-arid regions support species with better adapted these harsh conditions than others. adaptations manifest themselves different life history strategies e.g., opportunistic high turnover species, or low turnover-low reproduction their physiology adaption water retention, behaviour avoiding heat day. Long term studies show large numerical fluctuations quick response by favourable caused relatively precipitation. In savanna grasslands, have centred dynamics, relationship between food breeding, reproductive determination niche. These approached through study groups particular localities as well individual species. populations are more stable less erratic regions. Perturbations, particularly fire, can various effects numbers composition disturbed area. forest modest may take up 2–3 years pass peak trough back again. Breeding typically extends over year with, apparently, greatest number rodents occurring ground surface. Bush temporary farms derived result modification animals (and often species) forest. niches occupied poorly understood very little is known within canopy. most abundant remainder frequent.