Population biology

TitlePopulation biology
Publication TypeBook Chapter
Year of Publication1989
AuthorsKaufman, DW, Kaufman, GA
EditorKirkland, GL, Layne, JN
Book TitleAdvances in the Study of Peromyscus (Rodentia)
Pagination233 -270
PublisherTexas Tech University Press
CityLubbock,TX
Accession NumberKNZ00239
Abstract

Recent literature on Peromyscus encompasses both descriptive and experimental studies that have led to new insights in population ecology, behavioral ecology, and community ecology. Genetic variation has been assessed in over 20 species of Peromyscus, with several studies focused on understanding patterns of macrogeographic differntiation, including island effects. Detailed analyses of the dynamics of microgeographic genetic structure are needed to better understand the organization and dynamics of populations. Additionally, little is known about the adaptive significance of biochemical variation. Social interactions in populations of Peromyscus are being examined in greater detail than before and are potentially important to the study of population regulation. Advances in understanding microhabitat selection and distribution, mostly involving P. leucopus and P. maniculatus, have been accomplished through use of multivariate statistical techniques and to lesser degree experimental manipulations. A major part of the increased effort in microhabitat analysis of Peromyscus species has been the result of studies of interspecific microhabitat partitioning. However, integrated studies of habitat selection, foraging, interspecific competition, and differential risk of predation are needed to better assess and describe interspecific resource partitioning within assemblages and the influence of age and sex on intraspecific resource partitioning. Ecological limits to population size, organization of populations, sex ratios, foraging behavior, and predation risk are less studied in Peromyscus, although some interesting observations have been made