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Related Experiment Videos

A geographic gradient in small rodent density fluctuations: a statistical modelling approach

O N Bjørnstad1, W Falck, N C Stenseth

  • 1Department of Biology, University of Oslo, Norway.

Proceedings. Biological Sciences
|November 22, 1995
PubMed
Summary

Southern Fennoscandian rodents show stronger density dependence than northern ones, influencing their population cycles. This study reveals a latitudinal gradient in rodent population dynamics.

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Area of Science:

  • Ecology
  • Population Dynamics
  • Zoology

Background:

  • Density dependence is a key factor regulating animal populations.
  • Previous studies suggest geographic gradients in population dynamics, but empirical evidence is debated.
  • Fennoscandian microtines exhibit cyclical population fluctuations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To statistically investigate the latitudinal patterns of density dependence in Fennoscandian microtine rodent populations.
  • To determine how direct and delayed density dependence vary along a latitudinal gradient.
  • To compare findings with existing hypotheses on geographic variation in rodent population dynamics.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of nineteen time series of microtine abundances across a latitudinal gradient (60°N to 69°N) in Fennoscandia.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Application of a linear autoregressive statistical model to assess density-dependent effects.
  • Statistical comparison of southern and northern population dynamics.

    • Main Results:

    • A significant latitudinal gradient in direct density dependence was found, with southern populations exhibiting stronger effects.
    • Delayed density dependence was consistently negative and uniform across the latitudinal gradient.
    • Rodent populations displayed second-order dynamics, leading to a cline in cycle periods from 3 to 4.5 years.

    Conclusions:

    • The observed clinal variation in density dependence supports the 'generalist predator hypothesis'.
    • Density dependence strength in microtines is influenced by latitude, impacting population cycle lengths.
    • Findings provide robust statistical evidence for geographic gradients in rodent population regulation.