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A Model for Experimental Exposure of Humans to Larval Ixodes scapularis Ticks
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Determinants of lemming outbreaks.

Rolf A Ims1, Nigel G Yoccoz, Siw T Killengreen

  • 1Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, University of Tromsø, N-9037 Tromsø, Norway. rolf.ims@uit.no

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America
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Lemming and vole population dynamics in tundra differ due to lemming winter breeding, an adaptation to Arctic-Alpine conditions. Climate warming may reduce lemming outbreak frequency and range.

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Area of Science:

  • Ecology
  • Population Dynamics
  • Arctic Biology

Background:

  • Tundra rodent population outbreaks are ecologically significant but poorly understood.
  • Sympatric lemmings and voles exhibit contrasting outbreak patterns, with lemmings showing irregular, steep irruptions while voles maintain regular cycles.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the ecological and demographic factors driving the differing population dynamics of sympatric lemmings and voles.
  • To explain the distinct outbreak regularity and shape between lemming and vole populations in tundra ecosystems.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of spatial variability in lemming and vole populations across altitudinal gradients during a 2006-2007 outbreak.
  • Comparison of population growth and decline phases between lemmings and voles, particularly during winter.

Main Results:

  • Lemming population outbreaks are characterized by winter breeding and population growth, contrasting with vole population declines during the same period.
  • Lemming outbreak amplitude correlates positively with altitude and vole density, suggesting facilitation by low temperatures and potential mutualism with voles.
  • Lemmings display higher sensitivity to climate and predation variations, leading to more erratic population dynamics than voles.

Conclusions:

  • Lemming outbreak patterns are shaped by adaptations to Arctic-Alpine winters, including winter breeding strategies.
  • Climate warming and altered vole population cycles are predicted to further reduce the occurrence and extent of lemming outbreaks.
  • Understanding these dynamics is crucial for predicting tundra ecosystem responses to environmental change.