Study on Some Ecological Characteristics of Iranian Jerboa (Allactaga firouzi) in Isfahan Province
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Abstract
Iranian jerboa classified as data deficient species according to the IUCN Red List. Little information has been published about ecological and biological characteristics of Allactaga firouzi and other members of genus Allactaga. In the present study, we aimed to identify some ecological characteristics, such as: hibernation, feeding habits, breeding, coexistence with other rodents and threatening factors, from May 2008 to April 2009 in southern Shah-Reza in Isfahan Province. Results showed that breeding usually occurred from April to May. Hibernation started about late November and lasted mid-February. There was no stored food in the excavated burrows. However, direct observations and remaining plant material in burrows showed that this species forages on plant material. A. firouzi was recorded sympatric with Meriones persicus. The main factor affecting this single and very limited habitat occupied by this species is affected by the anthropogenic transformation of the environment. Overgrazing, mining activities and transportation in its habitat are the most significant factors threatening the conservation of this endemic species and its habitat. Unfortunately nowadays overgrazing by livestock in the study area has caused a decrease in the vegetation cover, and there are also mining and recreational activities in its habitat, all of which are significant factors threatening the survival of A. firouzi. Furthermore, buildings, roads and heavy traffic machines in this area have become a critical environmental challenge.
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