Mammal extinctions on Australian islands: causes and conservation implications

摘要: Aim Data on Australian landbridge islands were analysed to seek relationships between the extinction of mammals and a number variables related islands, native mammal species that occur them presence or absence exotic mammalian predators. The data base included attributes (mean adult body weight, diet shelter habitat) [area, rainfall, presence/absence significant areas rockpile habitat, European red fox Vulpes vulpes Linnaeus, 1758, feral cat Felis catus rats Rattus rattus (Linnaeus, 1758) R. exulans (Peale, 1848)]. Methods Statistical analysis 388 cases where Critical Weight Range (CWR) is extant forty-one CWR extinct was conducted using logistic regression model probability as function island variables. Results Foxes cats are correlated with extinctions, but associated extinctions particularly more arid islands. Extinctions likely an habitat restricted ground's surface, relatively large. Conclusions An association has not previously been demonstrated for introduction predators should be avoided any these establish all means employed eradicate them. For continental predators, clearance, major factor in extinctions.