Resource partitioning in a viverrid assemblage.
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Date
1988
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Abstract
Viverrids are small carnivores that achieve high species
richness throughout their range. This study investigated the
ecology and resource partitioning of five members of this
family (Genetta tigrina, Herpestes ichneumon, Galerella
sanguinea, Atilax paludinosus and Mungos mungo) that coexist
in Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve on the south coast of Natal,
South Africa.
Emphasis was placed on differences and similarities within
this assemblage. Diets of the viverrids were determined by
scat analysis and prey abundance was revealed by means of a
monthly trapping programme.
The spatial ecology of the assemblage was assessed using
radio-tracking and habitat utilisation was compared with
habitat availability. The activity regimens of
viverrids were also determined from radio-tracking.
Consideration of all three major niche dimensions (food,
habitat and time) revealed important differences within this
assemblage. Each species used different resources, along at
least one niche axis, from other members in the assemblage.
Consequently, the three niche dimensions segregated all five
species. These differences may reduce interactions and
facilitate coexistence.
Description
Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 1988.
Keywords
Viverridae--Natal., Viverridae--Ecology., Genetta tigrina., Herpestes ichneumon., Mungos mungo., Atilax paludinosus., Galerella sanguinea., Theses--Zoology.