Co-existence between Iberian lynx and Egyptian mongooses: estimating interaction strength by structural equation...

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Wildlife Conservation
• Population Dynamics

Background:

• Understanding interspecies competition and predator-prey dynamics is crucial for wildlife management.
• The Iberian lynx and Egyptian mongoose are key carnivores in the Iberian Peninsula, with potential for competitive interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the causal relationships between Iberian lynx and Egyptian mongoose track abundance.
• To estimate the direct and indirect effects of Iberian lynx on Egyptian mongoose populations.
• To assess the influence of rabbits, shrub cover, and protection levels on these interactions.

Main Methods:

• Path analysis was employed to model causal relationships between species track numbers and environmental variables.
• An observational study with repeated track surveys (1990-1996) using a split-plot design provided independent validation.
• Maximum likelihood ratio tests and goodness-of-fit indices were used to evaluate the model's adequacy.

Main Results:

• A significant direct negative effect of Iberian lynx on Egyptian mongoose track abundance was observed.
• Rabbit abundance and protection level positively influenced Iberian lynx track numbers.
• Shrub cover significantly affected rabbit abundance, with indirect effects noted on mongoose populations via lynx presence.

Conclusions:

• Iberian lynx presence significantly reduces Egyptian mongoose track counts, indicating a strong negative impact.
• Environmental factors like rabbit abundance and habitat protection play crucial roles in mediating these carnivore interactions.
• The study highlights complex indirect effects influencing species coexistence in Doñana National Park.