8016 25279 1 SM PDF
8016 25279 1 SM PDF
8016 25279 1 SM PDF
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Geographic Distribution
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Departamento de Zoologa, CRUB, Universidad Nacional del Comahue, Quintral 1250, (8400) Bariloche, Ro Negro, Argentina.
E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: Biological invasions are difficult to control when invaders populations attain high densities; therefore early
detection is important for implementing management strategies. This study presents the first record of the European rabbit,
Oryctolagus cuniculus Linneaus, 1758, in Nahuel Huapi National Park, Patagonia, Argentina and confirms its dispersion
in habitats adjacent to the Siete Lagos route. Considering the potential ecological consequences of rabbit in a protected
area, the early detection of this invasive species will allow the National Park Administration to implement urgent control
measures in order to stop the advance.
DOI: 10.15560/10.5.1183
Figure 1. Early detection of European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) in Nahuel Huapi National Park, Patagonia Argentina.
Figure 2. a: Fecal pellets of European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus); b: European hare (Lepus europaeus)
Figure 3. Seasonal variation of European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) fecal pellets on three plant communities in Nahuel Huapi National Park,
Patagonia Argentina. Values represent mean pellet density per square meter ( SE). Winter is the season following the volcanic eruption.
Acknowledgments: I thank Fernanda Montes de Oca and Carla Pozzi
for their help, collaboration, and technical support in the field. I also
thank Noelia Barrios and Claudio Chehebar for their comments and
improvements in the manuscript. To the Administration of Nahuel Huapi
National Park and the National University of Comahue, for providing
materials and equipment (grant UNC-B126).
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