The effect of habitat degradation, season and gender on morphological parameters of lesser jerboas (Jaculus jaculus L.) in Kuwait

M Al–Mutairi,R Bhuller,F Mata

doi:10.32800/abc.2012.35.0119

Abstract

Arid environments suffer anthropogenic interference causing habitat degradation. This degradation can influence animal populations. We randomly captured a total of 198 lesser jerboas Jaculus jaculus in three seasons (autumn, spring and summer) in two relatively close areas (intact and degraded). All animals were sexed, and weight, body and tail length, and thigh thickness were taken. We found significant differences in weight (p < 0.001), which was lower in summer (p < 0.05) when fewer food resources were available. Thigh thickness was greater in the intact habitat (p < 0.01), explained by the greater amount of food resources and also by the higher numbers of predators in this area, prompting escape behaviour. Females in the intact area were heavier and had longer bodies and tails. This was related to greater availability of time for mothers to search for food in this area.

Highlights

Desert mammal species have developed complex combinations of behavioral and physiological adaptations to ameliorate the impact of extreme temperatures and limited free water
The aim of this study was to analyse differences in morphological parameters of lesser jerboa (Jaculus jaculus L.) populations living in intact habitat with abundant food resources, and populations living in degraded habitats with scarce food resources
In spring 2011, n = 39 lesser jerboas were caught in the intact study site while n = were captured in the deteriorated site, and in summer 2011, the captures were n = and n = 33, in the intact and deteriorated habitats, respectively

Summary

Introduction

Desert mammal species have developed complex combinations of behavioral and physiological adaptations to ameliorate the impact of extreme temperatures and limited free water. These adaptations typically consist of being nocturnal, semi–fossorial, and having the ability to extract all their water from their food (Whitford, 2002). A more pervasive influence is the construction of linear open areas ––truck paths and roads –– through previously continuous habitat. These open areas may provide ecological situations that differ profoundly from those of the surrounding habitat and cause habitat fragmentation and deterioration of food resources for desert mammals

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion