Population dynamics and changes in the population structure of a polymorphic colony of northern mole voles

Long-term (1985–1999) stationary observations on a polymorphic population of northern mole voles (Ellobius talpinus Pall.) in Kurgan oblast, Russia, using a mark-recapture method yielded original data on the population dynamics and population structure of a polymorphic colony consisting of animals of three color morphs (black, brown, and intermediate or transitional). The period when the northern mole vole population dynamics was studied (15 years) consisted of five distinct three-year population phases: depression, growth, peak (stabilization), decline to depression, and the next growth phase. It was shown that the population dynamics and changes in the population structure of northern mole voles in the Kurtamysh colony are cyclic.     

Comparative Analysis of Coat Color Morphs in a Polymorphic Population of the Northern Mole Vole

Long-term stationary observations (1985–2000) on a polymorphic population of the northern mole vole (Ellobius talpinus Pall.) in Kurgan oblast were performed using the mark-recapture method. Original data were obtained on the abundance and structure of this population, which comprised individuals of three color morphs: black, brown, and intermediate (bicolor). Each morph proved to have its specific features with respect to abundance, age and sex composition, migration, birthrate, mortality, and life span. In general, this polymorphism contributes to population heterogeneity and the maintenance of population homeostasis.     

Fluctuations of Population Size and Structure in the Northern Mole Vole: Preliminary Analysis

Long-term stationary studies on the ecology of the northern mole vole (Ellobius talpinus Pall.), performed by the mark–recapture method from 1985 to 1997, have provided original data on population dynamics and structure. The analysis shows that, to reveal cyclic fluctuations of population size in this species, the period of three years should be taken as a unit of time for estimating the duration of one phase. The 12-year population cycle in E. talpinus has four distinct phases: an increase, a peak, a decline, and a minimum. At each phase, the population is characterized by certain features of family structure, age composition, birth and death rates, and the composition of migrants.     

The Northern Mole Vole: Is It a Hibernator?

Based on the results of long-term field studies (1980–1997) and published data on the ecology of the northern mole vole (Ellobius talpinusPall.), it is assumed that these animals living in the Southern Urals and the Transural region do hibernate. The factors that cause their hibernation (freezing of the ground, the resultant unavailability of food, and hypoxia), some indirect evidence for hibernation (the cessation of tooth root growth from autumn to spring and a long life span), and characteristic signs of the preparation for hibernation (a decrease in body weight and an increase in liver weight) are considered. A hypothetical scheme of the active and dormant periods is proposed.     

Postnatal growth and development of the northern mole vole in natural populations in the northwestern part of its range

Long-term studies (1975–1999) and large amounts of field data (collections and observations on marked animals) have been used to analyze the growth and development of the northern mole vole (Ellobius talpinus Pall., 1770). Data are presented on the postnatal development and life spans of particular age groups of this species and on the dynamics of growth and life spans in the resident and migrant parts of the population. It is shown that the population is divided into slowly growing and rapidly growing groups, which is related to population dynamics. The timing of sexual maturation of the northern mole vole depending on the time of birth is clarified. It is shown that stable reproduction of this underground species is accounted for by the presence of seasonal generations.     

Species-Specific Features of Inter- and Intrapopulation Variation in the Level of Chromosome Instability in Rodents

Studies on the common vole Microtus arvalis revealed a distinct cytogenetic response to the influence of ionizing radiation, a wide range of variation in the group average indices of chromosome instability beyond the zone of technogenic impact, and the influence of natural factors (viral infections and fluctuations of population size) on the frequency of chromosome aberrations. In the northern mole vole Ellobius talpinus, neither the mutagenic effect of ionizing radiation nor interpopulation differences in the level of chromosome aberrations in the absence of anthropogenic impact were detected. Variation of genome instability of the rodents is significantly contributed to by species demography and population cycles.     

Alternative Types of Ontogeny in Cyclomorphic Rodents and Their Role in Population Dynamics: An Ecological Analysis

Two alternative ontogenetic pathways regularly effected in the populations of small mammals are analyzed as a manifestation of developmental multiversality. The types of ontogeny in rodents are characterized. These data are reflected in the concept of the functional approach. Multiversality of development in plants and animals is considered. Based on the results of long-term (26-year) observations on the natural populations of six rodent species, the dynamics of relationships between the types of ontogeny, abundance, and basic population parameters are analyzed using an example of a background species (Clethrionomys glareolus). A trigger mechanism of switching to a certain type of ontogeny, the role of environmental factors in actuating this mechanism, and the role of the genotype as a basis of multivalence are discussed. The existence of two developmental variants is regarded as a basis for functional rearrangements providing for a high flexibility of population responses and as a mechanism of population regulation determining the dynamics of rodent fauna. An adaptive population response to a board spectrum of influences, including anthropogenic damage, depends not only on the type and strength of the influence, but also on the functional structure of the population. The concepts described in the paper may explain the significance of critical periods in the life of populations.     

On the Population Structure of the Kamchatka Sable

The degree of morphological differentiation of sable (Martes zibellina L.) populations was studied in different physiographic regions of the Kamchatka Peninsula and the Penzhina River basin. According to craniometric data, the sables inhabiting the hilly Western Kamchatka Plain are larger than the animals from other regions. However, the analysis of phenetic variation in craniological characters and coat color showed that the sable samples taken within the peninsula were fairly homogeneous. On this basis, all sables inhabiting the Kamchatka Peninsula may be regarded as a single population.     

Comparative analysis of the population structure of social vole (Microtus socialis Pall., 1773, cricetidae, rodentia) in different areas of its range

A comparative analysis of the spatial-ethological structure of social vole (Microtus socialis Pall.) colonies was made on the basis of studies performed in Dagestan (1987–1991) and the southern Kalmyk Republic (1993–1998). Notwithstanding differences in environmental conditions and the extent and forms of anthropogenic impact, the population structure of the species proved to be similar and stable. Irrespective of population density, its core consists of family groups. Specific features of social behavior (aggressiveness toward unfamiliar animals) provide for the protection of home ranges and help to maintain a stable population structure.     

Spatial Distribution of Sables in the Middle Ob Region

Results of stationary studies on the spatial location of sables (Martes zibellinaL.) belonging to different age and sex groups are summarized. Mapping the sites where 388 animals were taken, it was found that young animals tended to live near floodplains; adult animals, on watersheds. Analysis of sables taken by commercial hunters (n= 1833) made it possible to estimate the age composition and the degree and spatial distribution of the hunting pressure on sable populations in three areas of the Ob region. The spatial separation of young and reproductive animals is interpreted as a group adaptive response to the specific distribution pattern of different habitats typical of this species and to the pattern of animal elimination. It is proposed to use the specific pattern of animal distribution for maintaining the size of the population that is subject to hunting. Specifically, reserve (reproductive) territories should be organized in watershed areas.     

Specific features of phenetic structure of the terrestrial snail <Emphasis Type="Italic">Cepaea vindobonensis</Emphasis> (Pulmonata; Helicidae) in urbanized and natural populations

The phenetic structure of natural and urbanized populations of the terrestrial snail Cepaea vindobonensis has been studied with respect to polymorphism in the shell-band color and pattern. It is noted that C. vindobonensis snails populating different artificial habitats in the city of Nikolaev and its suburbs are characterized by a higher level of both intra-and interpopulation diversity with respect to the type of this polymorphism. In addition, urban populations show a very wide range of variation in the frequencies of particular morphs or their groups. Conversely, natural populations are characterized by a more uniform frequency structure with respect to polymorphism of the shell banding pattern.     

Accumulation of 90Sr in the bone tissue of northern mole voles in the head portion of the East Ural Radioactive Trace

The accumulation of ⁹⁰Sr in the bone tissue of northern mole voles (Ellobius talpinus Pallas, 1770) living under chronic exposure to ⁹⁰Sr in the center of the Eastern Ural Radioactive Trace (EURT) with a ⁹⁰Sr contamination density of 37 MBq/m² or 1000 Ci/km² has been evaluated. Northern mole voles live under-ground and are characterized by family organization of populations and an extremely weak tendency toward dispersal. While there are no sex- or age-related differences in ⁹⁰Sr accumulation, sevenfold interindividual differences have been found. Hereditary (familial) determination of the variability of ⁹⁰Sr accumulation has been demonstrated. The probable causes of the difference in the familial component from the results of laboratory experiments on inbred mice are considered. The age-related inversion of ⁹⁰Sr accumulation previously found in other mammalian species in the EURT area has been confirmed. A possible mechanism of its formation is suggested.     

Problems of Population Dynamics of the White-Eyed Pochard (Aythya nyrocaGuld., 1770) in the Eastern Sea of Azov Region

The long-term population dynamics of the white-eyed pochard (Aythya nyroca) in the eastern Sea of Azov region was analyzed. It was found that the local population of this species tends to decrease in size. Clutch size, egg size, reproductive behavior, intraspecific clutches, embryonic mortality, and hatching success in this population were studied. The contents of PCDD and PCDF in the eggs of waterfowl were estimated. The eggs of white-eyed pochard, compared to other waterfowl, proved to contain abnormally high concentrations of xenobiotics. Possible causes of A. nyrocapopulation decline, including the impact of superecotoxicants, are discussed.     

Fluctuating Asymmetry in Cranial Measurements of East European Voles (Microtus rossiaemeridionalis Ognev, 1924) from the Zone of Radioactive Contamination

Fluctuating asymmetry (FA) in eight cranial measurements was studied in Microtus rossiaemeridionalis voles from two sites of the zone affected by the Totsk Radioactive Trace (TRT) and in the control population. In the affected populations, generalized mean population parameters of FA were significantly higher than in the control and tended to increase in relatively larger animals. The disturbance of ontogenetic homeostasis in voles from the TRT zone probably resulted from environmental stress caused by contamination with radionuclides (primarily plutonium), which entailed irradiation of many vole generations over more than 40 years.     

Daily Activity and Mobility of the Common Shrew (Sorex araneus L.)

Data on the daily activity and mobility of the common shrew (Sorex araneusL.) were obtained by the method of animal marking and recapturing in test plots. Sex- and age-related differences in the locomotor activity of animals were revealed, which depended on population size and the phase of the population cycle. Under natural conditions, animal activity in the daytime proved to decrease to a lesser extent than in captivity. The mobility (locomotor activity) of shrews was shown to depend on population density, reproductive rate, and weather.     

Demographic Parameters of the Tartarian Roe Deer Population in the Transural Region and the Main Factors Determining Them

The demographic parameters (sex and age structure, fecundity, and population growth) and the main environmental factors (legal hunting and poaching, predators, weather, and food supply) affecting the structure and dynamics of the large Tartarian roe deer (Capreolus pygargus Pall.) population of Kurgan oblast were studied. The question of the conformity between the population size and the carrying capacity of its range is considered.     

The Spatiotemporal Structure of Rodent Populations in the Steppe Zone of Western Siberia

The spatial structure of populations has been studied in two rodent species inhabiting the subzone of meadow steppes of the steppe zone of Omsk oblast: the narrow-sculled vole (Microtus gregalis Pall.) and steppe lemming (Lagurus lagurus Pall.). Their populations are represented by combinations of territorial family groups whose structure and spatial distribution vary by season depending on population density, the phase of the population cycle, and the status of their members in the population. In the areas cohabited by M. gregalis and L. lagurus, the pattern of territory use and the rhythm of animal activity during the day depend primarily on their total density: under conditions of low density, the population groups of both species are spatially separated; at increased density, they are distributed with respect to the pattern of daily activity. Both species jointly use part of the territory but at different times of day: M. gregalis, mainly at night and in the morning; L. lagurus, in the daytime.     

Hunting Selectivity and Its Influence on the Structure of Sable Populations in the Cis-Ural Region

The structure of commercial sable samples from the Cis-Ural region was studied taking into account hunting method (shooting or trapping). The proportion of adult animals was found to be significantly lower in samples taken during the first half of the hunting season, compared to the second half, indicating predominant harvesting of young animals. To estimate the degree of hunting selectivity (I), the ratios of demographic groups among shot and trapped animals were calculated. The results confirmed the fact of selective hunting for underyearlings both by shooting (I = 1.49–1.60 for the Cis-Ural region and I = 2.46–3.37 for the Western Sayan Mountains) and by trapping (I = 2.80–4.37), especially during the first half of winter. Samples taken during the second half of the season were characterized by prevalence of adult animals making up the reproductive core of the population (I = 1.43–2.07). It is considered that the process of reproduction in Cis-Ural sable populations in the 1960s to 1980s was stimulated by intensive commercial hunting. To maintain reproduction of sable populations at a safe level, it is necessary to reduce the period of hunting in the first quarter of the year. It is proposed to use the phenomenon of hunting selectivity for managing sable populations, regulating their exploitation, and improving the economic productivity of habitats. Commercial hunting in terms of its impact on the population can act as a factor of conscious or unconscious artificial selection.     

Changes of leaf morphology in <Emphasis Type="Italic">Betula pendula</Emphasis> roth and <Emphasis Type="Italic">B. pubescens</Emphasis> Ehrh. along a zonal-climatic transect in the Urals and Western Siberia

Leaf size, shape, and parameters of venation in Betula pendula and B. pubescens have been studied along a 1600-km latitudinal zonal transect in the Urals and Western Siberia. The results show that leaf size and venation density depend on the geographic location of population, with these parameters in the two species changing in opposite directions along the transect. In its northern part (forest tundra-southern taiga), B. pubescens shows a positive correlation of leaf area with long-term-average air temperature, while this correlation in B. pendula is negative. In the southern part, correlations of leaf size with long-term average precipitation in the two species are also opposite in sign. Parameters of leaf shape in both species depend mainly on weather conditions in the current year rather than on long-term average climatic parameters. The conclusion is drawn that B. pendula and B. pubescens have different mechanisms of structural adaptation of leaves to climate and weather conditions that are based on changes in leaf size and shape.     

Structure of fouling communities formed by <Emphasis Type="Italic">Halichondria panicea</Emphasis> (Porifera: Demospongiae) in the White Sea

The structure of fouling communities formed by the sponge Halichondria panicea in the White Sea is described. On artificial substrates exposed in the sea for a long time, this sponge forms overgrowths on the colonies of long-lived organisms such as the mussel Mytilus edulis or the ascidian Styela rustica. The biomass of algae and sedentary animals (other than H. panicea) on the substrate is markedly smaller in areas colonized by this sponge than in neighboring sponge-free areas. Conversely, the biomass of both sedentary and errant polychaetes is greater in H. panicea colonies than in adjacent fouling communities.