Microhabitat selection by murid rodents in the Monte desert of Argentina

Habitat selection by two sympatric rodent species in the Monte desert, Argentina. First data for Eligmodontia moreni and Octomys mimax

“…Although the importance of microhabitat in defining patterns of distribution and abundance in micromammals has been questioned (Morris, 1984;1987;Corbalá n and Ojeda, 2004;Corbalá n, 2006;see review in Jorgensen, 2004), our results have shown certain level of selectivity at microhabitat scale by differences between capture and control points. This hierarchical selection pattern has frequently been described for other animal groups (Schaefer and Messier, 1995), and has come to be considered as the main factor over macroscalar aspects (Morales et al, 2008).…”

“…In addition, the microhabitat results show E. moreni to have a generalist character and O. mimax to be more of a specialist. Previously 'inconsistencies' have been reported between the variables selected by a given species in different habitats (Corbalá n, 2006), these being interpreted as showing the non-existence of microscale patterns of selection rather than indicating a greater breadth of specific response. Nonetheless, lower selectivity in any level of the variables, can indicate more flexibility in the use of resources, given that individuals carry out their selection as an immediate adaptive response rather than in fulfillment of an evolutionary constraint.…”

Patterns of diversity of the Monte Desert small mammals across multiple spatial scales

“…In other words, when species turnover is small at the local or patch scale, assemblages are mainly dominated by a limited number of species and regulated by biological interactions such as competition or facilitation (Pitman et al, 1999). Pitman's assertion is supported by the presence of two generalist rodents, in terms of diet and habitat, as the dominant species of Monte Desert small mammal assemblages (E. typus and G. griseoflavus) (Giannoni et al, 2005;Corbalán, 2006).…”

Habitat use by a Neotropical desert marsupial (Thylamys pallidior): A multi-scale approach

“…Habitat segregation could be considered one of the main mechanisms of coexistence among small mammals (Schoener 1974). Vegetation structure and substrate composition, for example, seem to be important factors influencing small mammals distribution in desert systems (Bos et al 2002;Corbalán 2006;Rosenzweig and Winakur 1969;Simonetti 1989). A high plant cover may offer more refuges against predators and also greater availability of food resources (Simonetti 1989).…”

“…Previous research on Monte desert small mammals, particularly rodents, showed that these animals use the habitat in a non random way (Campos et al 2001;Corbalán 2006;Gonnet and Ojeda 1998;Ojeda et al 2011;Tabeni and Ojeda 2005). Species are capable of distinguishing among habitats (macrohabitat), but the selection is weaker when considering microhabitat variables such as vegetation cover (Corbalán 2004(Corbalán , 2006Tabeni et al 2007).…”