Terrestrial mammal feces: a morphometric summary and description

Area of Science:

• Zoology and Ecology
• Paleoecology
• Conservation Biology

Background:

• Fecal analysis of terrestrial mammals yields vital biological and ecological data, including species presence, diet, behavior, territory, parasitic fauna, and home-range use.
• This data is applicable to conservation projects and supports paleoecological research utilizing coprolites.
• While biotechnological methods offer high accuracy, morphometric analysis remains essential for initial taxonomic identification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compile and present a list of fecal shape and measurement data from published literature across North America, Africa, and Europe.
• To incorporate new fecal data from Brazil into this compilation.
• To highlight the utility of morphometric characteristics for taxonomic identification of fecal samples.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of published fecal shape and measurement data from specified geographic regions.
• Collection and analysis of new fecal samples from Brazil.
• Classification of fecal samples into taxonomic groups based on shape and morphometric measurements.

Main Results:

• Fecal samples were successfully assembled and categorized into 9 distinct groups.
• These groups reflect taxonomic levels such as Order and Family, and indicate common origins.
• Fecal shape and diameter were identified as the most effective characteristics for taxonomic identification.

Conclusions:

• Morphometric analysis of feces is a valuable tool for the primary taxonomic identification of terrestrial mammals.
• This method supports the selection of appropriate subsequent analyses, including advanced biotechnological techniques.
• The compiled data provides a foundation for broader ecological and paleoecological studies.