Anomalures (Rodentia, Anomaluridae) in Central Gabon: species composition, population densities and ecology

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Abstract
WOS:000074249100002International audienceA population survey of anomalures in the Foret des Abeilles, Central Gabon, was undertaken by exploring hollow trees over 75 ha. Three species were identified: Anomalurus derbianus, A. pusillus, and Idiurus macrotis. Population estimates indicate that a total of about 500 anomalures could be present per km(2). The three species shelter in hollow trees during the day and have a strictly nocturnal activity. Den selection depends mainly on the size and configuration of the cavity; neither tree species nor tree diameter are important. Data on home ranges and nightly movements were obtained by the radio-tracking of two A. derbianus and one I. macrotis. In dens, A. derbianus (about 700 g body weight) were mostly found either alone or in pairs of one female and a young. During the nocturnal activity period, two to three individuals (always including a young) were seen together on several occasions. Communal nesting occurred in I. macrotis (about 30 g body weight) with groups ranging from two to 40 individuals. By contrast, they were always observed alone during the night activity period. Few feeding data were recorded: all involved the consumption of phloem sap after scratching the bark of a small number of tree species. Great quantities of leaves and insects (ants and termites) were found in a stomach of A. derbianus. Comparisons with results obtained from long term studies on gliders in Australasia highlight several convergence points between African flying squirrels and flying phalangers (Phalangeridae), in particular when comparing species with similar body weights. Our data confirm that anomalures occupy the niche of gliders on the African continent

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