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Amur tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) predation on livestock in Hunchun Nature Reserve,Jilin,China LIU Yu, ZHANG Endi,LI Zhihong,CHEN Xiaojie    Abstract （1686）      PDF （456KB）（1912）       Knowledge map    Save We examined predation on livestock by the Amur tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) in Hunchun Nature Reserve, Jilin, China, through field surveys and studying claims made by local residents from May 2002 to October 2004. There were 38 claims and a total of 51 livestock were killed in these claims. Date, kills number, type, age and sex, tiger trails and the GPS data of the predation spots. We used Mann-Whitney U to test the significance of difference. GIS analysis was employed to quantify these spots with 10 ecological variables. We use PCA to identify the principle components among the 10 variables. Results show that cattle and horses were the main species of livestock preyed on. Considering the ratio of total numbers, tigers showed no preference for cattle or horses. Tigers preferred prey adult animals, and most tiger predation claims involved single or two victims. Most predation claims occurred during the non-frozen season (March-November). Location of predation, in order of importance of the 10 ecological variables was: distance away from residence > elevation >distance away from road > land use type II > slope > aspect > distance away from river > vegetation type > road type > land use type I. Mean distance from residence was 3 666 ± 2 308 m, which was highly significantly nearer than that of tiger bed, sphinx or scrape. Mean elevation was 280 ± 114 m, which was highly significantly lower than that of tiger beds and significantly lower than that of sphinx and scrape. Mean distance from roads was 522 ± 543 m, which was highly significantly nearer than that of tiger scrape, ignificantly nearer than that of bed and nearly significantly nearer than that of sphinx. Among the 26 predation locations,14 were in less protected forests,6 were in specially protected forest,3 were in farmland,2 were in shrubbery and 1 was near the residence area. In total, tigers preyed on a total of 11 851 kg of livestock, costing at least 116 126.00 RMB loss. Related Articles | Metrics

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BEHAVIORAL INTERACTIONS AND MATING BEHAVIOR OF RATLIKE HAMSTERS (CRICETULUS TRITON) DURING THE BREEDING SEASON ZHANG Jianxu,ZHANG Zhibin,WANG Zuwang    Abstract （2450）      PDF （161KB）（1971）       Knowledge map    Save In a Y-maze, the focal female ratlike hamsters ( Cricetuus triton) preferred body odor of males to females' or control (P<0.05) ; themale did not show a sexual preference for body odor ( P> 0.05), while preferred body odor of conspecific to control, these results indicated that body odor are attractive to the hamster, and the hamster’s response to the odor had sexual difference. The focal hamster spent more time in one of arms of Y-maze with hamster demonstrator than another control arm ( P< 0.05 or P < 0.01) ; males spent more time in one of arms with same-sex hamster demonstrator than another with the opposite-sex individual conspecific ( P< 0.01), and females did not spend different time ( P > 0.05). The results were mediatedby combination of agonistic behavior and mating patterns. The staged dyadic encounters were conducted in a neutral arena.Paired encounters between both same sexes contained frequent agonistic acts and few amiable acts, and the victors had more attack and flank gland marking ( P < 0.05 o r P < 0.01); although both male sand females exhibited less aggression when paired with opposite-sex conspecific, amiable acts were also fewer, and females received males' mounting only on the estrous day of estrous cycle and attacked males on other days of. The above results implied that the hamster was solitary and that f lank gland marking was positively related to agonistic behavior and dominant status. Ratlike hamsters had a typical mating behavior and exhibit multiple intromission followed by multiple ejaculations. Both males' Coolidge effectand females' multiple matings indicated that the hamster was polygynousor promiscuous mating. Related Articles | Metrics

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ON THE GEOLOGICAL DISTRIBUTION TAXONOMIC STATUS OF SPECIES AND EVOLUTIONARY HISTORY OF SIKA DEER IN CHINA QUO Yanshu , ZHENQ Huizhen    Abstract （2818）      PDF （506KB）（3534）       Knowledge map    Save In early Pleistocene, sika deer was only found in north China region and Taiwan; in middle pleistocene to holocence it extended to northeast region the east of Mongolia-Xinkian region the central China region the south China region, the east of southwest region and Qinghai-Tibet region. There is only one species ( Cervus nippon) in the east Asia from early pleistocene to holocene. It is devided into nine subspecies in China (C. n. sintikuensis, C. n. taicxuanus, C. n.grayi,C. n .hortulorum,C. n .mandarinu, C. n. grassianus,C. n. sinchuanrinus, C. n . kopschi C. n . pseudxis). Sika deer whose home is on the edge of the forest has better adaptabililty. Its distribution regions are abruptly shrinking with the continuous rising of Qinghai-Tibet plateau and man’s action after ice age. Now, there are only 1500 wild sika deers in China. It is discussed evolutionary history of sika deer yet. Related Articles | Metrics

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The circadian expression rhythms and adaptive evolution of the core circadian clock gene Per1 in bats WANG Hui, XU Ningning, LI Xintong, FENG Jiang ACTA THERIOLOGICA SINICA    2024, 44 (3): 259-267.   DOI: 10.16829/j.slxb.150882 Abstract （178）   HTML （20）    PDF （2885KB）（188）       Knowledge map    Save For a long time, research on circadian clock has been a hot topic in the field of life science. Previous studies have shown that the core clock gene Per1 is widely involved in the regulation of mammalian circadian rhythms. However, limited understanding of the adaptive sites evolved in the sequence of Per1 gene. And whether these adaptive alterations may promote the formation and stabilization of mammalian diurnal activity patterns remains to be investigated. In this study, we conducted in-depth molecular evolution analyses of the core clock gene Per1 through the real-time quantitative PCR, gene cloning sequencing and molecular evolution analysis. We have identified the circadian oscillation patterns of Per1 gene expressed in the brain of bats, from rest state to sleep state corresponding with the expression level of Per1 gene changed from high to low, and the sleep state showing the lowest expression level, while from wake state to active state, its expression level increased continuously, which was highly correlated with the maintenance of the central biological clock regulation function of Per1 gene. There were 15 potential and 2 significant positively selected sites were detected on the Per1 gene sequence, and one of the significant positively selected sites, 1118A amino acid site detected in nocturnal animals was found to be located on the functional domain of the gene encoded protein sequence. We also found that the evolution rate of Per1 gene in nocturnal mammals was generally higher than that in diurnal mammals, indicating that the core clock gene Per1 experienced strong selective pressures during the evolution of nocturnal mammals, further promoted the formation and stabilization of nocturnal activity patterns in mammals. This study provides a new understanding of the key molecular basis of mammalian homeostasis maintenance and adaptation to the periodically changing environmental conditions, and provides ideas and references for circadian clock related studies. Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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History,current situation and prospects on nature reserves for giant pandas ( Ailuropoda melanoleuca) in China HU Jinchu,ZHANG Zejun ,WEI Fuwen    Abstract （9523）      PDF （190KB）（5162）       Knowledge map    Save The giant panda,a tribute to emperors in ancient China,is an endemic species and regarded as a modern national treasure. Contributing to extensive illegal hunting,it has become endangered before liberation. During 1950s,Chinese government initiated the establishment of nature reserves to conserve wildlife and their habitats,and in 1960s,five reserves, including Wolong,Wanglang,Baihe,Labahe and Taibaishan,were established for the giant panda. Seven more reserves were established in 1970s,based on the first national ground survey for the giant panda,and the reserves for the species summed up to thirteen. The second national ground survey (1985 - 1988)indicated that the population of wild giant pandas was decreased as much as 54% . In 1990s,the total of panda reserves was increased to 36,and by now,there have been 63 reserves established to protect giant pandas and their habitats,covering about 85% of the remaining habitats and 50% of individuals. The extant population was estimated about 2000,sparsely distributed in remote western mountane ranges in China. Chinese government has developed many in-situ and ex-site conservation strategies to conserve the animal by now. Giant pandas should deserve a promising future. Related Articles | Metrics

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MECHANISMS AND THE EVOLUTION OF FEMALE MULTIPLE MATING BEHAVIOR LIU Xiaoming LI Ming WEI Fuwen    Abstract （2095）      PDF （163KB）（2277）       Knowledge map    Save Females cannot produce more offspring than the number of their eggs. herefore, from the theoretical perspective, one or a few matings are sufficient for females to fertilize all eggs and maximize their potential reproductive abilities for one estrus period. Contrary to the prediction, however, females of many animal species often mate multiply with a single male or more males. Because mating often carries relatively high cost, it is difficult to understand why females mate multiply. Adaptive and non-adaptive hypotheses to explaining female multiple mating are reviewed in the paper. Adaptive hypotheses are separated into two parts: obtaining both direct benefits and 'indirect (genetic) benefits' from mating partners. Direct benefits may take the form of courtship feeding , nuptial gifts, fertilization assurance, paternal care, stimulation of reproduction and female of guarding of mating right with males. Specifically, this review emphasizes on discussing the three hypotheses on genetic benefits, i. e. 1 acquisition of good genes, increased genetic diversity within clutches, and genetic compatibility. Two non-adaptive hypotheses such as the genetic related and compliance with male behavior are also discussed. Related Articles | Metrics

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Primary Analysis on Habitat Selection of Yangtze Finless Porpoise in Spring in the Section Between Hukou and Digang YU Daoping, WANG Jiang, YANG Guang, ZHANG Xian    Abstract （1570）      PDF （166KB）（1634）       Knowledge map    Save In springs of 1995 to 2000, plot sampling was carried out to collect information on eight habitat factors including geographic environment and human activities, etc. According to a map of navigation in middle and low Yangtze River (printed in 1995), regular sampling plots, with a circular area of 500 m in diameter and with equal water and terrestrial , were set every five kilometres along the main stream, which included areas used by Yangtze finless porpoise. A total of 1 225 kilometres of survey was conducted 1 247 regular sampling plots were set, of which 66 were utilized by the finless porpoises. The habitat selection of the Yangtze finless porpoises was quantitatively analyzed by Vanderploeg and Scavia selection indices. It was found that the Yangtze finless porpoises prefer cushion waters around large, gooseneck-like, bifurcated water courses, however the selection tended to be random with the decrease of flexuousity and the width to length ratio of the riverway. The feeding grounds of the Yangtze finless porpoises are usually close to sandy areas with reedy swamps where boats traveling upstream, sand excavating, and fishing activities, etc. constitute the potential threats to the finless porpoises. We suggest that the core area of the nature reserve should focus on large bifurcated riverways with cushion waters, and large areas of reedy swamps, where the sand excavating and fishing activities should be prohibited, and the speed of boats traveling upstream must be limitede. Related Articles | Metrics

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Human-large mammals conflicts:A new challenge of wildlife conservation CAI Jing,JIANG Zhigang    Abstract （1856）      PDF （357KB）（3481）       Knowledge map    Save Human-mammals conflict has become a problem worldwide. It not only brings damage to those people who live near the wildlife,but also causes problems to the conservation for wildlife. Main species causing problems include the wildelephants in Africa and Asia,the deer in North America and most of the large and median sized carnivores worldwide. The factors causing human and large mammals conflicts include the human population increases,wildlife habitat losses,change of land use pattern and wildlife population growth after effective implementation of conservation measures. Quite often several factors are involved in the human-large mammals conflicts. To resolve this problem,the government should enhance the management of large mammals and try to reduce the damage caused by those wild animals. On the other hand,the government should care the indigenous communities that are near the nature reserves and to help to develop the local economy while raising conservation awareness in the indigenous communities. Related Articles | Metrics

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Genetic diversity of sika deer based on microsatellite in Taohongling, Jiangxi ZHANG Yang, CHEN Luyao, HAN Weijie, ZHAN Jianwen, LIU Wuhua, HUANG Xiaofeng ACTA THERIOLOGICA SINICA    2024, 44 (3): 268-276.   DOI: 10.16829/j.slxb.150803 Abstract （157）   HTML （12）    PDF （3027KB）（142）       Knowledge map    Save Sika deer ( Cervus nippon) is a ClassⅠkey protected wild animal in China. The Jiangxi Taohongling sika deer represents the largest population of South China sika deer ( C. n. kopschi). Studying the genetic diversity of Taohongling sika deer and understanding its genetic background is crucial for enhancing the genetic diversity of sika deer in South China and promoting the population’s rapid development. This study collected a total of 108 suspected sika deer fecal samples from the Taohongling Sika Deer National Nature Reserve. Mitochondrial Cyt b gene amplification sequencing was used for species identification, while microsatellite markers and SRY/ZFX sex markers were employed for individual identification, genetic diversity analysis, and sex determination. The results showed that 96 out of the 108 samples were produced by 63 individual sika deer, resulting in a sex ratio of 1. 33 males to 1 female. The average number of alleles, observed heterozygosity, expected heterozygosity, and inbreeding coefficient of the 7 microsatellite loci were 3. 714, 0. 712, 0. 602, and -0. 087, respectively. Three loci significantly deviated from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and all showed heterozygote excess. These findings suggest that the genetic diversity of Taohongling sika deer is moderate, with a certain degree of sexual imbalance. Furthermore, a negative inbreeding coefficient indicates that there is no current risk of inbreeding in the population. To improve the conservation and management of rare alleles, it is advisable to implement artificial breeding programs for the Taohongling sika deer. Additionally, measures such as promoting individual migration should be implemented to facilitate genetic exchange between the Taohongling sika deer and other South China sika deer populations. This will help maintain their population genetic diversity and promote rapid development. Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Nutritional requirement of captive non-human primates ZHANG Peng,WATANABE Kunio    Abstract （3223）      PDF （404KB）（2298）       Knowledge map    Save Nutritional requirements of captive non-human primates have increasingly become a topic of focus for international and Chinese communities. Introduction of nutritional studies on non-human primates to China,the biggest breeding and exporting country for non-human primates in the world,will help to improve the standard of raising the animals,the feeding efficiency of ingredients,and industry development. This article reviews recent research progress on the nutritional requirements of captive non-human primates and explains the recommended levels by both Chinese (GB 14924.8 - 2001) and US (NRC 2003)governments. It further introduces functions of each nutrient composition including the clinical and pathologic signs of deficiency and treatment for the deficiency. The purpose of this review paper is to enrich the relevant scientific information and to promote understanding of the nutritional needs of captive non-human primates. Related Articles | Metrics

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The index system construction of EES system based on Cov-AHP and the impact measurement of human-animal conflict WANG Lanxin, FANG Liang, XU Huimei, LIU Chao, CHEN Wenhui ACTA THERIOLOGICA SINICA    2024, 44 (3): 277-286.   DOI: 10.16829/j.slxb.150836 Abstract （119）   HTML （5）    PDF （4301KB）（103）       Knowledge map    Save In protecting wild animals and their habitats, human-animal conflicts occur occasionally. Exploring the influencing factors of human-animal conflicts and proposing corresponding suggestions to promote harmonious coexistence between man and nature is necessary. This study started with 22 variables of the economic, ecological, and social system (EES system) around Beijing from 2009 to 2017. It established an EES index evaluation system based on the Covariance-Analytic Hierarchy Process (Cov-AHP). In order to explore the influencing factors of human-animal conflict in the EES system, a multiple linear regression model is established and AIC criteria are used to screen and analyze the variables that significantly impact human-animal conflict. The results showed that the primary forms of human-animal conflict in the surrounding areas of Beijing were the destruction of farmland and orchards. The losses were the least in Pinggu District, the largest in Mentougou District and Yanqing District, and the peak of the conflict was from August to September every year. In the economic system, the increase in the growth rate of the secondary industry, the proportion of the secondary industry, the general budget revenue of the government, and the total grain production will aggravate the loss of human-animal conflict. In the ecosystem, the larger the area of reforestation and the closer the distance from the water system, the more likely it is to cause human-animal conflict loss, while the closer the distance from forest land, the less likely it is to cause human-animal conflict loss. In the social system, the Engel coefficient and total public library will increase the loss of human-animal conflict, while the proportion of protective measures is the opposite. Therefore, we should optimize the local industrial structure and strengthen the construction of ecological civilization while developing the economy. Improving the cultural literacy of residents: when carrying out the project of returning farmland to forest, the local ecology should be reasonably restored, and the overcorrection should not be overdone. Besides harmonious coexistence with wild animals, protection measures should be established and the negative impact of wild animals should be minimized. This study explores the main influencing factors of human-animal conflict in the EES complex system, providing a theoretical basis and data support for reducing the loss of human-animal conflict and promoting harmonious symbiosis between man and nature. Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Catalogue of mammals in China(2021) WEI Fuwen, YANG Qisen, WU Yi, JIANG Xuelong, LIU Shaoying, LI Baoguo, YANG Guang, LI Ming, ZHOU Jiang, LI Song, HU Yibo, GE Deyan, LI Sheng, YU Wenhua, CHEN Bingyao, ZHANG Zejun, ZHOU Caiquan, WU Shibao, ZHANG Li, CHEN Zhongzheng, CHEN Shunde, DENG Huaiqing, JIANG Tinglei, ZHANG Libiao, SHI Hongyan, LU Xueli, LI Quan, LIU Zhu, CUI Yaqian, LI Yuchun ACTA THERIOLOGICA SINICA    2021, 41 (5): 487-501.   DOI: 10.16829/j.slxb.150595 Abstract （13533）      PDF （1771KB）（7083）       Knowledge map    Save China is one of the countries with the highest diversity of mammalian species. Knowledge of mammalian diversity and their taxonomy is fundamental to mammalian research and is the basis of scientific conservation of wild populations. To clarify the species diversity and important taxonomic information such as the taxonomic position of mammals in China, the China Mammalogical Society organized an editorial committee consisting of taxonomists studying different taxonomic groups. Based on previous taxonomic studies and the latest morphological and genetic evidences, the editorial committee produced the latest catalogue of mammalian species in China. This catalogue includes 12 orders, 59 families, 254 genera, and 686 species. The catalogue uses the taxonomy system based on phylogeny and fully discusses the validity of species taxonomy. Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Studies on Destruction , Prevention and Control of Plateau Pikas in Kobresia pygmaea Meadow LIU Wei WANG Xi ZHOU Li ZHOU Huakun    Abstract （1355）      PDF （169KB）（2058）       Knowledge map    Save This paper studied effects of various plateau pika population sizes in different levels of degraded grasslands , planted grassland and weeds control treatment , and analyzed the response of plateau pikas to environmental changes.The results indicated that plateau pika population sizes increased with the degrees of grassland deterioration1 Population sizes of plateau pika were relative low in heavily degraded grassland because of limited food resource. Population sizes show significant differences among different treatments of non-degraded grassland (NDG) , lightly degraded grassland (LDG) , moderately degraded grassland (MDG) , and heavily degraded grassland (HDG) , i.e. , ( t NDG- LDG = 25.369 7 , t NDG- MDG = 25.55 , t NDG- HDG = 36.406 0 , t LDG- MDG =23.279 4 , t LDG- HDG = 14.343 9 , and t MDG- HDG = 20.178 5 , df = 3 , P < 0.001) . Areas destroyed by plateau pikas had significantly positive correlation with area per hollow ( F = 220.46 , df = 3 , P < 0.001) . Before grassland became heavily degraded grassland , the degree of degradation aggravate when population sizes increased. The changes of the spatial structure of plant community could cause the changes of population sizes of plateau pika. Population sizes were decreased when height and coverage of plant community were reduced. Related Articles | Metrics

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New record of Mogera insularis in the mainland of China YAO Hongfeng, HU Jiangxiao, HAN Jixue, TANG Ruohui, ZHOU Jiajun, HE Kai, ZHANG Yucai, CHU Jun, ZHAO Kai, CHEN Zhongzheng ACTA THERIOLOGICA SINICA    2024, 44 (3): 370-376.   DOI: 10.16829/j.slxb.150873 Abstract （117）   HTML （2）    PDF （5753KB）（95）       Knowledge map    Save Mogera insularis (Mammalia: Eulipotyphla: Talpidae) was previously considered to be limited to Taiwan and Hainan, China. In this study, we collected three mole specimens in Anhui Province. We integrated molecular and morphometric approaches to assess the identity of these specimens. Our results indicate that one specimen from Huangshan is M. latouchei while the other two from Xuancheng and Dabie Mountains, Anqing are M. insularis. The maximum likelihood (ML) tree based on the complete Cytochrome b ( Cyt b) gene showed that the M. insularis specimens from Anhui and Taiwan form a monophyletic clade with strong support (support value = 98. 1%), and the genetic distance between them was 1. 87%. Additionally, phylogenetic analysis showed that the M. insularis from Taiwan and Hainan are non-monophyletic, suggesting M. i. hainana might be a distinct species. This study provides the first record of M. insularis in the mainland of China, which greatly expanded the distribution of this species. Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Food habits of Tibetan antelope (Pantholops hodgsoni)in the Kekexili Nature Reserve CAO Yifan,SU Jianping,LIAN Xinming,ZHANG Tongzuo,CUI Qinghu    Abstract （3217）      PDF （249KB）（2722）       Knowledge map    Save We studied the diets of Tibetan antelopes ( Pantholops hodgsoni) by fecal microhistological analysis and compared the difference of the diets between warm-season (in July)and cold-season (in January) in Kekexili Nature Reserve, Qinghai Province,where we collected fresh fecal samples from Tibetan antelopes (33 in July 2005 and 55 in January 2006). Results showed that a total of 24 species (genera)belonging to 15 families were foraged by antelopes. By checking the frequency of each plant fragments in fecal samples,we found that Gramineae, Cyperaceae, Legume, Compositae, Tamaricaceae and Scrophulariae were the main food items. Gramineae was the main food throughout the year, and accounted for 60.5% of food composition. In addition, antelopes fed on Cyperaceae, Legume, Compositae, Tamaricaceae and Scrophulariae in quite high proportions annually, accounting for 16.7%, 9.2%, 6.4%, 4.9%, and 0.9% respectively. There was significant variation in diet in different seasons. In the cold season, Cyperaceae and Tamaricaceae decreased to 7.7% and 0.8% respectively, while Gramineae, Legume and Scrophulariae increased to 70.4%, 12.6% and 2.4% respectively. Related Articles | Metrics

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A review of research on the dietary specialization in vampire bats CHEN Yuxuan, ZHAO Huabin ACTA THERIOLOGICA SINICA    2019, 39 (2): 202-208.   DOI: 10.16829/j.slxb.150240 Abstract （2678）      PDF （8245KB）（3073）       Knowledge map    Save Members of Chiroptera (i.e. bats) possess a huge diversity of diets, which include insects, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals, fruits, flowers, nectar, pollen, foliage, and blood. Of bats, approximately 70% of bat species are insectivorous, while only three species of bats (i.e. vampire bats) feed exclusively on blood. Vampire bats are the only group of mammals that drink blood, which appear to be unique and have become an attractive animal model to study dietary shift in mammals. Here we review studies on morphology, physiology, behavior, sensory systems, and gut microbiota in vampire bats, and highlight their adaptive traits of dietary specializations. Following the release of a high-quality genome sequence of the common vampire bat, we will have opportunities to explore functional changes of diet-related genes in vampire bats, aiming to dissect the molecular basis of dietary shift in animals. This review will be helpful in future studies of dietary changes in vampire bats and other animals. Related Articles | Metrics

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STUDIES ON REPRODUCTIVE BEHAVIOR OF DOMESTIC BLACK BEAR KONG Linglu, LAN Minjian, YANG Shikui, YANG Zhiyong, DENG Yinghong    Abstract （1375）      PDF （158KB）（2272）       Knowledge map    Save Related Articles | Metrics

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Serological evaluation of the efficacy of the multivalent canine distemper attenuated live vaccines on giant pandas ( Ailuropoda melanoleuca) WANG Chengdong, YANG Songtao, WU Kaibo, GAO Yuwei, ZANG Zhihe, LUO Li, WANG Whengyu, WANG Tiecheng, YAN Yubao, HU Juan,YANG Zhi, LAN Jinchao    Abstract （2520）      PDF （180KB）（2154）       Knowledge map    Save 33 giant pandas consisted of different ages and sexes were vaccinated with a multivalent canine distemper attenuated live vaccines specialized for dogs according to a routine protocol. Blood samples were collected from each of the 33 individuals piror to vaccination and at 2 weeks,1 month,3 months,6 months,9 months and 11 months post-vaccination. Serological viral neutralization titers (VN) to CDV were determined by viral neutralization tests as well as recording the health data of all individuals throughout the vaccinal year. The results indicated:1)No side effects related to vaccination were observed, and this type of multivalent canine distemper attenuated live vaccines was safe for use in giant pandas. 2) 13 of 33 giant pandas including old ones,adult and sub-adult ones had existing pre-vaccination VN titers (≥1∶4). 3) Of the 4 old pandas,2 produced very low level of VN titers (≤1∶8)while the other 2 failed to produce post-vaccination VN titers (< 1∶4). 4) 9 of 15 adult giant pandas failed to produce post-vaccination VN titers, only 6 of 15 adult giant pandas produced very low level of post-vaccination VN titers (≤1∶2). 5) 8 of 9 sub-adult giant pandas produced very low levels of post-vaccination VN titers (≤1∶22),1 of 9 sub-adult giant pandas failed to produce VN titers (<1∶4). 6) All of 5 infant pandas produced post-vaccination VN titers that peaked from a range of 2 W to 1 M post-vaccination, and both the level and duration of these VN titers in infant pandas were significant higher or longer than those in old, adult and sub-adult pandas (P <0.05). Although 1 infant one had ever produced the highest level of VN titers (1∶127), all of the VN titers in 5 infant pandas had dropped dramatically (1∶16) in 3 months. It was concluded that these types of multivalent attenuated canine distemper live vaccines specialized for dogs in inadequate to stimulate giant panda to produce protective VN titers against CDV using to this routine protocol. Related Articles | Metrics

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THE RECENT DISTRIBUTION, STATUS AND CONSERVATION OF PRIMATES IN CHINA MA Shilai, WANG Yingxiang    Abstract （1906）      PDF （1072KB）（2367）       Knowledge map    Save This Paper reports the recent distribution, status and conservation of Chinese primates. In China, there are 20 species of primates, 2 species of slow loris ( Nycticebus coucang and N. pygmaeus); 6 macaque species ( Macaco mulatta, M. nemestrina, M. thibetana, M. arctoides, M. assamensis and M.cyclopis); 5 langur species (Presbytls entellus,p.pileatus,p.-phayrei,P.frarcoisi and Pygathrix nemaeus); 3 species of golden monkey (Rhinopithecus roxellanae,R.bieti and R.brelichi); and 4 gibbon species ( Hylobates lar, H.leucogenys, H.concolor and H.hoolock), being all limited in southern and southeastern China (see Table 1 and Fig. 1 - 3). They are listed as the protected animals by Chinese government, of which presbytis pileatus and Nycticebus pygmaeus are protected by Yunnan provincial government, and Macaca mulatta, M. thibetana and M.arctoides are 2nd class protected animals of China, the rest species are all 1st class protected animals. Killimg or hunting are strictly forbidden.According to our survey since 1975 and the literature records, the recent natural distribution range and the numbers of Chinese primates are all narrowing and reducing although they are emphasized protected animals by Chinese government, however, the number of Sichuan golden monkey, Guizhou golden monkey, white-headed langur in Guangxi province and three subspecies of black gibbon in Yunnan are increasing slightly. The main reason of the narrowing in distribution and reducing in number is hunting and forest-destroying (Table 2). This situation cannot be completly changed in a short period.However, Chinese government has paid great attention to the conservation of the natural environment and to the rare wildlife. So far, there are more than 3 hundred Nature Reserves being established in China (total area of the Reserves is about 17,670, 000 hectare, reaching to 1.8% of Chinese territory), 20 of which belonging to the National Forestry and Wildlife Type Nature Reserves. The Reserves relating to the primates conservation are about 95 places (Table 3).It is reported (Zhang, 1986) that 4 hundred Reserves will be made in China before 1990. By then, the area of the Reserves of China will be about 2% of the territory. By 2000, Reserves may be developing into 500-600 places. Its total area will be reaching to 3% or 4% of the territory of China, which is close basically to the level of common countries in the world. Therefore, we believe that Chinese primates shall be well protected and developed in the near future. Related Articles | Metrics

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Marine mammal researches in China HAO Yujiang,WANG Kexiong,HAN Jiabo,ZHENG Jingsong,XIAN Yijie,YAO Zhiping,LU Zhichuang,LI Haiyan,ZHANG Xianfeng    Abstract （7964）      PDF （441KB）（5355）       Knowledge map    Save Researchers in China have studied marine mammals for over 80 years. In recognition of Acta Theriologica Sinica’s 30 year anniversary,we have reviewed the history of this research using an extensive published literature as well as our own research and experience,summarized its progress,and discuss future prospects. Marine mammals in this paper are divided into three groups:whales,pinnipeds,and other marine mammals. We have focused on research examining the ecology, rearing and breeding biology,conservation genetic,acoustics,and conservation biology for selected species. Two main points have been drawn from the review. First,Chinese research on marine mammals is at the forefront of some fields including research on rearing and breeding biology,c onservation biology,and bio-acoustics of river dolphin or porpoise. The second point,unfortunately,is that there is a lack of systematics studies on marine mammals in Chinese coastal waters. Finally, we expect to see significant breakthroughs and real progress on the protection of endangered species in the near future. Related Articles | Metrics

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Survey on the population and reproduction of free-ranging cats at the Xianlin Campus of Nanjing University SUN Taozhu, WU Qiong, ZHANG Zhenwei, LI Zhongqiu ACTA THERIOLOGICA SINICA    2024, 44 (3): 333-343.   DOI: 10.16829/j.slxb.150821 Abstract （158）   HTML （4）    PDF （22130KB）（124）       Knowledge map    Save The free-ranging cat is a significant threat to global biodiversity, yet there is a dearth of research on the fundamental biology of these non-domesticated felines within China. Between 2018 and 2022, we undertook a comprehensive study focusing on the population dynamics and reproductive biology of free-ranging cats on the Xianlin Campus of Nanjing University, which covers approximately 195 hectares. Utilizing point sampling surveys conducted over a continuous 20-day period, we generated a population accumulation curve for the cat population. Despite having pre-existing knowledge of the cats’distribution, we found that a single day of sampling yielded a discovery rate of only 51. 22%, with a confidence interval of 44. 51% to 53. 66%. This rate improved to 84. 15% (confidence interval: 81. 10% to 86. 59%) following six days of repeated sampling efforts. From 2018 to 2022, the cat population on the Xianlin Campus of Nanjing University saw a swift increase, rising from 51 individuals in 2018 to 220 by 2022. To delve into the population’s dynamics and reproductive patterns, we conducted detailed monthly surveys six times between March 2021 and March 2022. Over this period, we documented a total of 273 cats, comprising 149 adults and 124 kittens, with a near-even sex ratio. The one-year retention rate for the cats was approximately 58. 71%, with a marked difference favoring neutered cats over their unneutered counterparts in terms of survival. Regarding reproduction, while cats are capable of breeding year-round, the peak breeding season is predominantly from March to June. Among the 65 recorded litters, 84 cats survived past the six-month mark. Assuming an average litter size of 3 to 4 kittens, the survival rate of these feral cats on the campus at six months was estimated to be around 36. 92%, with a range of 32. 31% to 43. 08%. Our findings suggest that sampling efforts of low intensity may have led to an underestimation of the free-ranging cat population. Furthermore, in an environment where human care is abundant, the survival and reproductive success rates of these cats remain high, unaffected by limitations in food, shelter, or disease. This presents considerable challenges for the control and management of free-ranging cat populations. Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Winter habitat selection of Reeves's muntjac and wild boars in the Qingliangfeng Mountains LU Qingbin,YU Jiangao, GAO Xin, YANG Xianyu, ZHOU Qi, ZHANG Liangbin, ZHANG Shuyan    Abstract （2518）      PDF （403KB）（2624）       Knowledge map    Save We studied habitat selection of Reeves's muntjacs ( Muntiacus reevesi) and wild boars ( Sus scrofa) in Qingliangfeng Nature Reserve in northwestern Zhejiang, China. Habitat characteristics were measured on the basis of expected differences between species at 248 sites from 5 November 2005 to 21 January 2006. Habitat selection showed a certain extent of overlap, muntjacs and wild boars both selected habitats with shrub vegetation, low herbage density, gentle slopes, relatively close to residences, and moderate concealment. Differences in habitat selection were that muntjacs selected habitats with moderate tree density, greater shrub density and moderate canopy, whereas wild boars selected habitats with lower tree density. Muntjacs selected north-facing slopes and habitats distant from water-sources, whereas wild boars displayed noselection with regard to slope or distance from water sources. We suggest that the two species coexist in Qingliangfeng as a result of differential habitat selection associated with their species-specific anti-predator strategies. Muntjacs avoid predators by concealment whereas wild boars evade predators by running as their escape strategy. Related Articles | Metrics

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Mating behavior of captive wolves (Canis lupus) in Heilongjiang,China SHA Weilai,ZHANG Honghai,KONG Fanfan,CHEN Lei,ZHANG Chengde    Abstract （7204）      PDF （237KB）（3936）       Knowledge map    Save In order to better understand mating patterns and processes of captive wolves ( Canis lupus), we observed 4 pairs in the Harbin North Forest Zoo for about 25 days (225 hours in total)from October 2005 to April 2006. We used focal animal sampling and all occurrence recording. Mating behaviors usually occurred during 8∶ 00 - 10∶00 am and 14∶00 -16∶ 00 pm. Among 741 mounts recorded,46 copulations were observed (6. 2% ). The mating period lasted for 5 - 14 days. We observed copulatory locks during copulations. After copulatory lock and several repeated twitches,male wolves would ejaculate. Female wolves displayed obvious sexual solicitations and acted in concert with male mounts by standing still with their tails to one side,and haunches bent forward. There were no differences in the twitching times ( P = 0. 827), but we did observe differences in the durations of copulatory locks (one-way ANOVA, F = 71.43, P < 0.001) among the four male wolves. The mean mating duration was 534 ±402 seconds,with the longest 1 588 seconds and the shortest 28 seconds. Related Articles | Metrics

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Research advances and perspectives on the ecology of wild giant pandas WEI Fuwen,ZHANG Zejun,HU Jinchu    Abstract （6587）      PDF （325KB）（4851）       Knowledge map    Save Among the order Carnivora, the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) is one of the most attractive animals, possessing high value for scientific research and being a symbol of worldwide nature conservation. In early 1980s, the Chinese government, cooperating with the WWF in initiated a research project on wild giant pandas in Wolong Nature Reserve. Since then, extensive research activities have been conducted in different mountain ranges inhabited by the animal. The application of new techniques such as 3S (GIS, RS, GPS)and molecular markers in the ecological study of the giant panda has greatly improved our understanding of its ecology. To date,a huge body of knowledge and information has been accumulated, potentially helpful for developing adaptive conservation strategies. In this paper, we summarize research findings and progress in understanding the ecology of wild giant pandas during the past 30 years on various aspects, including habitat ecology, feeding ecology, reproductive ecology, behavioral ecology, molecular ecology, population ecology and community ecology. Meanwhile, given the demands of research and management, future research directions are suggested. Related Articles | Metrics

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From Egypt to Kunming-Montreal—The shift of the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework PING Xiaoge, ZHU Jiang, WEI Fuwen ACTA THERIOLOGICA SINICA    2023, 43 (4): 357-363.   DOI: 10.16829/j.slxb.150816 Abstract （513）   HTML （1878）    PDF （1795KB）（518）       Knowledge map    Save The 15th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15) adopted the KunmingMontreal Global Biodiversity Framework (hereinafter referred to as the Kunmeng Framework). This global biodiversity framework has gone through rounds of negotiation and consultation and the release of the zero draft, the first draft and the Kunmeng Framework. Some contents have been continuously adjusted, showing the compromises of parties on certain issues. This paper reviews in detail the indicators involved in the 2050 long-term goals and 2030 action targets in the zero draft, first draft, and the Kunmeng Framework, and proposes the following topics to be paid attention to: living in harmony with nature, genetic diversity conservation, protected area target, transformation and urgent actions, and the implementation of the framework. Future work should focus on urgent actions to translate global goals into national actions, providing financial support, and ensuring the effective implementation of the monitoring systems. Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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BEHAVIOR CODING AND ETHOGRAM OF THE PÈRE DAVID'S DEER JIANG Zhigang    Abstract （2612）      PDF （193KB）（2224）       Knowledge map    Save Taking the Père David's deer ( Elaphurus davidianus) as an example, I distinguished the terms “posture”, “act” and “behavior”. Behavior is defined as animal's movements with a defined posture plus certain acts within an ecological environment. Thus, by using the concept of "posture-act-environment”, I put forward the three element coding system for animal's behavior based on the three components of animal behavior. Suppose B, P, A and E are the sets representing studying animal's behavior, posture, act and environment, respectively. bi, pi, ai and ei are the elements or subset of the set B, P, A and E. Behavior bi is defined as : bi = pi∩ ai∩ ei ; pi ∈P ; ai ∈A ; ei∈EI thus established a functional behavioral classification and coding system for studying animal behavior. The coding system is called PAE coding system, which is based on the set theory and states the relationship among animal's posture, act and ecological environment, clarifies the confusion of posture, act and behavior in ethological and behavioral ecological studies, distinguishes the component s and structure of animal behavior. The PAE coding system opens a new domain for the behavioral research. In this study, I recorded 12 postures of the Père David's deer : “standing”, “rearing”, “kneeling down”, “sitting”, “lying”, “walking”, “running”, “jumping”, “swimming”, “head on clashing”, “mounting” and “nursing”. I also recorded 92 acts and 134 behaviors. I also gave out the relative frequency of each behavior in relation to sex and age, and the season in which the behavior is likely to be occurred. Related Articles | Metrics

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Histological Structure of the Vomeronasal Organs and Accessory Olfactory Bulbs of Male Mandarin Voles ( Microtus mandarinus) at Different Postnatal Ages DING Xiaoli TAI Fadao    Abstract （1901）      PDF （175KB）（1635）       Knowledge map    Save We investigated the vomeronasal organ (VNO) and accessory olfactory bulbs (AOB) of male mandarin voles (Microtus mandarinus) at postnatal 0, 5, 15, 25 days of ages using histological method. The VNO was stained using Pischinger method while AOB was stained using hematoxylin-eosin method. In the mandarin vole, which continues to grow during most of its adult life, VNO and AOB were well developed before birth. However, full development of VNO and AOB did not occur until postnatal 25 days. At birth, mandarin vole had the basic structure of VNO and AOB of the adults. From age 0 to age 25 days, the thickness of vomeronasal epithilium, the length of the vomeronasal duct, and the size of the gland increased with age. The dorsolateral vessel became larger and numbers of other vessels increased. The size of AOB, the length of the granule cell and the mitral cell zones, and the density of granule cells increased with age also, while the density of mitral cells increased from age 0 to age 15 days, then declined. Voles of age 25 days and the adults had the similar densities of mitral cells as those of age 5 days. These results suggest that possibly at postnatal age 5 days, the structure development of VNO and AOB was complete, and possibly at postnatal 25 days, VNO and AOB were fully functional. Related Articles | Metrics

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Taxonomic and systematic research progress of mammals in China YU Wenhua, HE Kai, FAN Pengfei, CHEN Bingyao, LI Sheng, LIU Shaoying, ZHOU Jiang, YANG Qisen, LI Ming, JIANG Xuelong, YANG Guang, WU Shibao, LU Xueli, HU Yibo, LI Baoguo, LI Yuchun, JIANG Tinglei, WEI Fuwen, WU Yi ACTA THERIOLOGICA SINICA    2021, 41 (5): 502-524.   DOI: 10.16829/j.slxb.150535 Abstract （3022）      PDF （3119KB）（3898）       Knowledge map    Save Rich mammalian diversity in China ranks it as one of the key groups in maintaining ecological function. Since Mr. John R. Reeves conducted the first mammalian survey in Guangdong, China, from 1829 to 1834, Chinese mammal taxonomic and systematic researches have made remarkable progress in the past 200 years. Presently, the number of mammal species in China has reached 686, representing about 10% of all mammals and making it one of the most diverse countries in mammal species in the world. As China attaches greater importance to ecological protection, the ecological environment is increasingly improved. Nevertheless, along with global climate change, increasing human activities and the emergence of major human-animal epidemics, the importance of mammal surveys and taxonomic clarification has become more apparent. Meanwhile, this traditional discipline is constantly incorporating state-of-art techniques, such as integrative taxonomy, digitization of specimens, type specimens sequencing technique, portable sequencing techniques and deep learning-based species identification, with the goals of verifying species identification, building proper taxonomic classifications, and promoting the application and transformation of taxonomic achievements to other discipline. Animal taxonomy, a traditional basic discipline, is also the basis for many branches in modern biology, such as genetics, physiology, ecology, medicine and pharmacology. However, due to distinct characteristics among disciplines, it has not received sufficient attention in recent years. It is thus necessary to value traditional taxonomy, morphology and other basic disciplines at the national level, and provide special policy and financial support on talent training and funding. Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Home range of red pandas (Ailurus fulgens) in Fengtongzhai Nature Reserve，Sichuan，China YANG Jiandong，ZHANG Zejun，LI Ming，HU Jinchu，WEI Fuwen    Abstract （2004）      PDF （256KB）（1891）       Knowledge map    Save Home range is an area where an animal performs its normal living activities. The home-range sizes of six red pandas（ Ailurus fulgens）were determined by radio-tracking technique in Fengtongzhai Nature Reserve, Sichuan Province from May to November in 2002. The results indicated that home range sizes of these six pandas，M1, M2, M3, F1, F2 and F3 respectively were 330. 26 ha,135. 18 ha，190. 67 ha, 98. 23 ha,141. 60 ha and 204. 80 ha, and the average size was 183. 46 ha. Average home-range size for the three males was 218. 70 ha，and for the three females was 148. 21 ha. Males had larger home ranges than did females. Average home-range overlap among these individuals was 25. 33%, and that for males，females and inter-sexualily were respectivly 26%, 23. 67% and 25. 67%. Perhaps because of human disturbance, home range and average daily movement distance of M1 were the largest among these individuals. Related Articles | Metrics

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WHY MAMMALS INCREASE THEIR BODY SIZE IN THE PROCESS OF EVOLUTION ? SU JianPing , liu jike    Abstract （1455）      PDF （302KB）（1638）       Knowledge map    Save Many mammals have been proved by lots of observations to increase their body size in the process of evolution. This is a very interesting biological phenomenon , and on which theoretical explanations havebeen suggestedby paleontologists. Some of the explanations are based on the famous Bergman's law and accepted almost by all paleontologists who are interested in the phenomenon, although a lot of contrary evidence has been found. In this article, the authors presented many facts to show that the augmentation of body size is a process independent of cooling of earth during Quaternary refuting all explanations based on Bergman’s law. The most important fact in use was the late Pleistocene fossil mammalian faunas from Northeastern China Research group of advanced vertebrates of the Institute of Vertebrates Paleontology, 1959) showed in table 1. If the explanations based on Bergman’s law were correct, larger species would have higher survival rates after undergoing through the extreme cold of ice age in Quaternary than smaller ones. However, Table 1 showed that the survived species or subspecies after going through the ice age included all 8 species of Rodentia and Lagomorpha, with small body size 5 of 6 species of Carnivora, with moderate body size, and 10 of 22 species or subspecies of Proboscidea, Perrisodactyla , Artiodactyla , with large body size. These data indicated that augmented body size was not advantageous for mammals to live in extreme cold climate, and might increase their extinction. The authors also used the evidence from the fossils of order, Proboscidea. The process of evolution in this order was about as follows. The most primitive family Moeritheriidae, occurred from the late Eocene to the early Oligocene with a body size of pig, the smallest size in this order; Deinotheriidae occurred during Miocene and Pliocene; Gomphotheriidae occurred from the early Oligocene to the early Pleistocene. Mammutidae occurred from the early Miocene to Pleistocene. And Elephantidae occurred in the late Miocene and was the only group still surviving today. The body size was gradually augmenting in this process, indicating that the augmentation of mammal’s body size could be a very long process which might have started at the beginnings of mammals and ended within the extreme cold ice age. So the problem should be discussed on a larger scale of time rather than only for Quaternary. There are several possible mechanisms involved in the augmentation of mammal's body size. First, nature selection should favor larger species because they arc advantageous in competition with a smaller one utilizing the same resources. Second, species specialize on the resources relatively being propitious to large one to avoid competition with other species. Giraffe's evolution is this situation. Third, large body size makes herbivorous mammal's antipredator more successful, that is why the present largest mammals are herbivorous, such as elephants and rhinoceros. Fourth, larger body size means higher running speed and endurance, and thus higher survival rates of prey from predators more successful predation of predators. The predator -prey coevolution prompts both predator and prey augment their body size. In predator - prey interaction, prey have a higher stress than predator because prey will lost it’s life if it fails to escape from a predator, while predator only lost a meal if it fails to capture a prey. So a prey may increase it's body size more rapidly than it's predator. In the last paragraph of this article, the authors discussed why augmented mammals had high extinction rates in Quaternary ice age. The following two factors together can account for this phenomenon. First, augmented mammals must exclusively occupy enlarged territory because a larger animal needs more resource food) than a smaller one. Thus population density, number of individual per unit area will decrease with augmentation of body size, and if it decreases to the minimum viable population it will be unavoidable to extinct. Second, the extreme cold climate in the ice age should result in a considerable decrease of plant productivity or a strong habitat succession , which must aggravate the rarefaction of population caused by augmentation of body size. The authors agree with the law of augmentation of size established by Charles Deperet. Related Articles | Metrics