Physiological condition of bank voles (Myodes glareolus) during the increase and decline phases of the population cycle.

摘要: The dynamics of animal populations are greatly influenced by interactions with their natural enemies and food resources. However, quantifying the relative effects these factors on demographic rates remains a perpetual challenge for population ecology. Food scarcity is assumed to limit growth initiate decline cyclic herbivore populations, but this has not been verified physiological health indices. We hypothesized that individuals in declining would exhibit signs malnutrition-induced deterioration condition. evaluated association body condition cycle phase bank voles (Myodes glareolus) during increase phases cycle. had lower masses, indices absolute masses particular organs decline. Simultaneously, they femoral mineral contents densities. Hemoglobin hematocrit values several parameters known respond deprivation were unaffected phase. There no lymphopenia, eosinophilia, granulocytosis or monocytosis. Erythrocyte counts higher plasma total protein levels tissue proportions essential polyunsaturated fatty acids Ectoparasite load was adrenal gland catecholamine concentrations did suggest stress levels. availability seems size can adapt prevailing conditions without clear deleterious effects. This highlights importance individual state when evaluating complex trophic wild populations.