Seasonal reproduction by small mammals of the Namib desert

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Abstract
The reproductive pattern of Namib desert rodents is highly seasonal and of short duration. Reproductive activity appears to be correlated with the occurrence of advective fog rather than rainfall. The short reproductive season is reflected by low reproductive potential and is associated with low annual mortality. Other demographic parameters, such as numerical density, biomass density and home range area, are similar for the Namib rodent species and other desert and non-desert species. Low reproductive potential and high annual survival are adaptations, or preadaptations, for the successful exploitation of desert niches by small mammals.
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