International Journal of Ecology and Environmental Sciences 27:
39-43, 2001
© International Scientific Publications, New Delhi
Space Use in Two Rodent Species (Abrothrix xanthorhinus and Eligmodontia
morgani) in North-Western Patagonia
M. Lozada, M. de Torres Curth, K.M. Heinemann and N. Guthmann
ABSTRACT
The home range of two rodent species inhabiting the ecotonal steppe in North-Western
Patagonia was studied. Significant differences were found between home range size and
overlap of Abrothrix xanthorhinus males and females, according to their
reproductive condition. These results suggest that Abrothrix xanthorhinus might
be polygynous or promiscuous. In contrast, in Eligmodontia morgani, no difference
was found between the home range size of males and females, irrespective of their
reproductive condition. Differential space use may occur in both sigmodontine rodents
which may be important as sigmodontine species are Hantavirus reservoirs in the Patagonian
steppe.
Key Words: Home range, Semi-arid steppe, Patagonia, Hantavirus, Sigmodontine
rodents, Argentina.