The effect of eroded ecological networks on the movement of harvest mice (Micromys minutus)

Howard-Williams, E., Littlemore, J., McCormick, W. D. and McCollin, D. (2016) The effect of eroded ecological networks on the movement of harvest mice (Micromys minutus). Seminar Presentation presented to: 5th Postgraduate Research Symposium, Moulton College, Northampton, 15 December 2016.

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Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Seminar Presentation)
Abstract:	Habitat fragmentation and degradation of ecological networks have been identified as an influencing factor of M. minutus population viability, although, this has yet to be fully quantified. Within a specially designed release enclosure located in semi-improved grassland, various sized gaps were created in cross sections of ‘hard’ (artificial road surface 4.8m) and ‘soft’ (mown, with low vegetative cover 1m, 2m and 4.8m). Movements of a reintroduced population of M. minutus (Soft ♂N=5, ♀N=9; Hard ♂N=8, ♀ N=13) over these gaps were recorded. Whilst both genders crossed narrower fragments that have ground vegetation, as gap width increased willingness to cross decreased significantly (P < 0.001). The implications here suggest that gaps over just 2m will impede movement and dispersal of both sexes, with potential genetic implications on M. minutus populations.
Subjects:	Q Science > QH Natural history > QH540 Ecology
Creators:	Howard-Williams, Emily, Littlemore, James, McCormick, Wanda D and McCollin, Duncan
Faculties, Divisions and Institutes:	University Faculties, Divisions and Research Centres - OLD > Moulton College
Date:	15 December 2016
Date Type:	Publication
Event Title:	5th Postgraduate Research Symposium
Event Dates:	15 December 2016
Event Location:	Moulton College, Northampton
Event Type:	Conference
Language:	English
Status:	Published / Disseminated
URI:	http://nectar.northampton.ac.uk/id/eprint/9311

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