Demographic dynamics of Akodon azarae (Cricetidae: Sigmodontinae) in linear habitats of agricultural landscapes of central Argentina

ABSTRACT

Linear habitats are capable of providing essential resources for small mammals within agroecosystems. We analyzed demographic parameters of Akodon azarae in a linear habitat of central Argentina. We used capture-mark-recapture models to determine temporal variations in survival, recruitment and population growth rate. The effects of temperature, rainfall and vegetation cover as well as of population abundances on the mentioned parameters were assessed in a 10-year study. Survival and growth rate showed seasonal variation, which was greater than the interannual variability observed. Temperature affected only recruitment. Linear habitats would provide resources for long term survival and reproduction of A. azarae.

KEYWORDS:

• CMR
• population growth rate
• recruitment
• survival
• temporal variation

Acknowledgements

We thank Marcos Torres for fieldwork assistance. The research on live animals was performed in a humane manner and followed guidelines for the care and use of animals (www.sarem.org).

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Fondo para la Investigación Científica y Tecnológica [grant 838/11]; Consejo Nacional de Investigación Científica y Tecnológica [grant PIP 2011 1122010010000301]; and Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto.