Most Download articles

Published in last 1 year | In last 2 years| In last 3 years| All| Most Downloaded in Recent Month | Most Downloaded in Recent Year|

Most Downloaded in Recent Year

Please wait a minute...


For Selected: Download Citations EndNote Ris BibTeX Toggle Thumbnails

Select

Human-large mammals conflicts:A new challenge of wildlife conservation CAI Jing,JIANG Zhigang    Abstract （1951）      PDF （357KB）（3805）       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

Select

ON THE GEOLOGICAL DISTRIBUTION TAXONOMIC STATUS OF SPECIES AND EVOLUTIONARY HISTORY OF SIKA DEER IN CHINA QUO Yanshu , ZHENQ Huizhen    Abstract （2891）      PDF （506KB）（3885）       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

Select

BEHAVIORAL INTERACTIONS AND MATING BEHAVIOR OF RATLIKE HAMSTERS (CRICETULUS TRITON) DURING THE BREEDING SEASON ZHANG Jianxu,ZHANG Zhibin,WANG Zuwang    Abstract （2525）      PDF （161KB）（2349）       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

Select

Advances in reproductive isolation mechanisms during animal speciation ZHANG Yuxing, WU Hong, YU Li ACTA THERIOLOGICA SINICA    2023, 43 (6): 627-643.   DOI: 10.16829/j.slxb.150838 Abstract （596）   HTML （95）    PDF （4322KB）（932）       Knowledge map    Save The process of speciation and its mechanism is not only the‘mystery of mysteries’of Darwin, but also a key to understanding the biological diversity in nature, and it is also one of the scientific focuses in the field of evolutionary biology. Speciation refers to the evolutionary process in which a new species diverges from its ancestors, and it is also the process of reproductive isolation or barrier establishment among populations. The exploration and revelation of this process and its inherent genetic mechanism are the key to understanding the phenomenon of biodiversity. By focusing on animal groups, this review systematically describes the ways of reproductive isolation establishment and their molecular mechanisms, then discusses the bottlenecks, challenges and potential opportunities faced by current research on animal reproductive isolations, with a view to providing reference and inspiration for subsequent research on animal speciation. Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

Select

STUDIES ON REPRODUCTIVE BEHAVIOR OF DOMESTIC BLACK BEAR KONG Linglu, LAN Minjian, YANG Shikui, YANG Zhiyong, DENG Yinghong    Abstract （1431）      PDF （158KB）（2517）       Knowledge map    Save Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Population size and distribution of western black crested gibbon ( Nomascus concolor) in Ailao Mountain, Chuxiong Prefecture, Yunnan Province LI Genhui, QIN Zhongyi, LU Lixiong, GAO Wenjun, LUO Wenfu, LI Han, LI Yuwu, YIN Cunquan, XU Ping, YIN Guanghua, LI Fabao, NIU Xiaowei, JIANG Xuelong ACTA THERIOLOGICA SINICA    2023, 43 (5): 513-522.   DOI: 10.16829/j.slxb.150749 Abstract （815）   HTML （105）    PDF （5140KB）（1746）       Knowledge map    Save From November to December 2020, we conducted the second field survey on the population and distribution of the western black crested gibbon ( Nomascus concolor) in Ailao Mountain, Chuxiong Prefecture, Yunnan by interviews and loud morning calls counting method. The survey recorded 61 groups and 14 individuals of western black crested gibbon, a total of about 270 individuals in the National Nature Reserve and its surrounding state forest areas. The gibbon population was mainly found (59 groups and 13 individuals) from the central part of Chuxiong City to the south part of Shuangbai County, while from the central to the north part of Nanhua County it was represented by a small isolated population (two groups and one individual). Compared with the previous survey in 2005, the population of the western black crested gibbon in Ailao Mountains, Chuxiong Prefecture increased significantly but still facing threats from population isolation and human disturbance such as grazing by cattle and goats. According to the current population and distribution pattern, we propose to conduct long-term population dynamic monitoring for concentrated populations, regular and irregular patrolling for isolated and marginal distributed groups, habitat assessment and restoration, and assign the groups in state forests managed by national nature reserve management and protection bureau for protection and conservation of western black crested gibbons in Ailao Mountains, Chuxiong Prefecture, Yunnan. Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

Select

History,current situation and prospects on nature reserves for giant pandas ( Ailuropoda melanoleuca) in China HU Jinchu,ZHANG Zejun ,WEI Fuwen    Abstract （9669）      PDF （190KB）（5490）       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

Select

Marine mammal researches in China HAO Yujiang,WANG Kexiong,HAN Jiabo,ZHENG Jingsong,XIAN Yijie,YAO Zhiping,LU Zhichuang,LI Haiyan,ZHANG Xianfeng    Abstract （8062）      PDF （441KB）（5689）       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

Select

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 （13932）      PDF （1771KB）（7266）       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

Select

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 （3163）      PDF （3119KB）（4051）       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

Select

MECHANISMS AND THE EVOLUTION OF FEMALE MULTIPLE MATING BEHAVIOR LIU Xiaoming LI Ming WEI Fuwen    Abstract （2158）      PDF （163KB）（2501）       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

Select

Mating behavior of captive wolves (Canis lupus) in Heilongjiang,China SHA Weilai,ZHANG Honghai,KONG Fanfan,CHEN Lei,ZHANG Chengde    Abstract （7425）      PDF （237KB）（4157）       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

Select

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 （2587）      PDF （403KB）（2908）       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

Select

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 （2797）      PDF （8245KB）（3229）       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

Select

Feeding activity of François langurs in Karst habitat ZHOU Qihai,CAI Xiangwen,HUANG Chengming,LI Youbang,LUO Yaping    Abstract （3926）      PDF （1396KB）（4259）       Knowledge map    Save To explore the influence of habitat fragmentation on the ecology of the François langur ( Trachypithecus francoisi), data on habitat use were collected from a group of François langurs living in an isolated hill in the Fusui Rare Animal Nature Reserve,Guangxi Province,between August 2002 and July 2003. Our results indicated that there was significant variation in the distribution of feeding activity in different vertical hill zones They showed preference for feeding in the middle zone. The top zone,as well as the bottom zone were used less for feeding. Langurs' feeding activities were concentrated in six patches,with a total area of 7.94 ha,which occupied 18.9% of the habitat. The densities of langurs' preferred food plants in the feeding patches were higher than that in the non-feeding patches. Langurs' diet varied according to season, even though leaves contributed a large proportion of the diet. This diet shift corresponded to seasonal variations in the utilization of feeding patches. Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Amur tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) predation on livestock in Hunchun Nature Reserve,Jilin,China LIU Yu, ZHANG Endi,LI Zhihong,CHEN Xiaojie    Abstract （1739）      PDF （456KB）（2007）       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

Select

Research advances and perspectives on the ecology of wild giant pandas WEI Fuwen,ZHANG Zejun,HU Jinchu    Abstract （6708）      PDF （325KB）（5070）       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

Select

THE RECENT DISTRIBUTION, STATUS AND CONSERVATION OF PRIMATES IN CHINA MA Shilai, WANG Yingxiang    Abstract （1961）      PDF （1072KB）（2596）       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

Select

A PRELIMINARY STUDY ON THE BENGAL TIGER(PANTHERA TIGRIS TIGRIS) IN NAMCHA BARWA, SOUTHEASTERN TIBET QIU Mingjang, ZHANG Ming, LIU Wulin    Abstract （1921）      PDF （181KB）（1964）       Knowledge map    Save Between May and June, September and October 1994, June and December 1995, we conducted a study on Bengal tigers in Namcha Barwa and adjacen tareas, southeastern Tibet. We determined the range of tigers and collected basic ecological information on this large predator. By tracking and independently investigating livestock predation around villages in Jinzhu Zangbu Valley, we confirmed the losses of 302 large livestock due to tiger predation between October 1993 and July 1995. A conservative estimate of the to tallive weight lost was 59881 kg, which averaged 2722 kg permonth, anequivalent to the monthly in take of 11 free-ranging tigers. Tiger predation affected all 12 villages and 62% households living in Jinzhu Zangbu Valley, with family loss rate of livestock ranging between 7.7% and 100%. Field observations suggest that, in addition to uncontrolled hunting, losses of low land fo rest to agriculture and pasture have resulted in dwindling of the food base for tigers in the region. Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Research advances in conservation and management of endangered mammals on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau Tongzuo ZHANG, Feng JIANG, Bo XU, Bin LI, Chengbo LIANG, Haifeng GU ACTA THERIOLOGICA SINICA    2022, 42 (5): 490-507.   DOI: 10.16829/j.slxb.150696 Abstract （1698）   HTML （67）    PDF （1607KB）（1853）       Knowledge map    Save The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP) is a global biodiversity hotspot and a priority area for conservation.It hosts a variety of key protected and endemic wildlife species, contributing to a high level of species richness and a large proportion of endangered species. We reviewed the research advances in the conservation and management of 7 fauna groups on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (ungulates, felids, ursids, canids, mustelids, chiropterans, and other small mammals) from the perspectives of the endangered status, threatening causes, strategies and effects of conservation and management. The proportion of endemic species of ungulates was much higher than that of the other 6 groups. 81% ? 100% of ungulate, felid, ursid, and canid species were listed as the national key protected wildlife. 45% to 100% of ungulate, felid, and ursid species were listed as threatened by the Red List of China’s Vertebrates or Red List of IUCN, which is far higher than the global average. Habitat fragmentation, global warming, overgrazing, poaching and illegal trade, and environmental pollution were the major threats to the survival of endangered mammals on the QTP. The implementation of relevant laws and policies, the construction of nature reserves, as well as the carrying out of a large number of investigations, monitoring, and researches have provided legal guarantees and scientific basis for the conservation and management of endangered mammals on the QTP. In view of the limitations of current conservation and management, we suggest building a comprehensive and systematic big data platform, so as to conduct rapid assessment of conservation effectiveness on the QTP and research on spatial optimization of protected areas. We also suggest combining internationally advanced interdisciplinary theoretical methods and practical innovation to provide guidance and suggestions for the protection and management of endangered mammals, so as to provide important scientific and technical support for the biodiversity conservation and ecological civilization construction of China. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Food habits of Tibetan antelope (Pantholops hodgsoni)in the Kekexili Nature Reserve CAO Yifan,SU Jianping,LIAN Xinming,ZHANG Tongzuo,CUI Qinghu    Abstract （3291）      PDF （249KB）（2945）       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

Select

Abstract （842）      PDF （309KB）（1927）       Knowledge map    Save Related Articles | Metrics

Select

An overview of population survey methods of non-human primates Xier CHEN, Lijie YIN, Dagong QIN, Jinxian YAO, Xiaoyu LI, Wenshi PAN ACTA THERIOLOGICA SINICA    2022, 42 (6): 716-727.   DOI: 10.16829/j.slxb.150656 Abstract （1215）   HTML （31）    PDF （903KB）（1403）       Knowledge map    Save Monitoring and estimating wildlife population size is essential to conservation. Affected by global climate change and human activities, wildlife populations could be relatively unstable. Primates are a group of highly evolved taxa in the animal kingdom and are among the most social of animals. As many as 701 species or subspecies of primates are recognized globally, forming a rich diversity. They could be found in various types of habitats, including rain forests, swamp forests, mangroves, secondary forests, deciduous forests, monsoon forests and montane forests, as well as in grasslands (savannah and steppe) including forest outliers, gallery forests, wooded steppes, thorn forests, Mediterranean scrubs and montane meadows, and even in deserts, dry uplands or permanent snow. Most primate species are endangered from different causes, and therefore effective long-term monitoring is of significant value to primate conservation. Species and habitat diversity have contributed to the numerous methods of censusing primate populations. This article offers a summary of widely-used non-human primate population censusing methods, including the classifications, the fundamentals, the various scenarios for application, and their limitations. The methods are analyzed with case studies and research. Furthermore, we introduce the latest applications of drones, thermal imaging and computer deep learning in primate population surveys, hoping to offer some insights into future non-human primate censusing and population monitoring. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Ontogeny and the influencing factors of bite force and feeding rate of giant pandas ( Ailuropoda melanoleuca) SUN Mengmeng, YAN Xiao, LI Feng, TANG Yong, ZHANG Xinxing, DONG Chao, HUANG Shengjie, ZHENG Yuanming, LUO Yong, ZHOU Shiqiang ACTA THERIOLOGICA SINICA    2024, 44 (2): 135-145.   DOI: 10.16829/j.slxb.150781 Abstract （374）   HTML （34）    PDF （3796KB）（437）       Knowledge map    Save The biting ability of giant pandas ( Ailuropoda melanoleuca) holds significant importance in terms of food acquisition and male-male competition. Their distinctive dietary preferences and masticatory system render them an ideal species for investigating bite forces. Nevertheless, current studies have predominantly relied on theoretical assessments derived from panda skull morphology, with no empirical animal experimentation conducted. The present study designed a force transducer specifically tailored for giant pandas, and measured body weight, bite forces, and feeding rate in a sample of 46 individuals from various age groups, with a particular focus on juvenile development. The results showed that bite forces at the tip of the incisor of juvenile giant pandas increased rapidly during the dental transitional period, as well as the feeding rate of bamboo shoots. At the end of the dental transitional phase, the bite forces exerted at the incisor point of juvenile giant pandas continued to display a growing trend, albeit at a decelerated rate. Concurrently, the feeding rate reached a state of equilibrium. The utilization of a logistic model revealed that age explains 87.56% of the variance observed in the feeding rate among juvenile pandas. As for the comparisons of age groups, the median bite force value exhibited an upward trajectory in tandem with increasing age. The bite force of 8-month to 12-month age group was significantly lower than the bite forces of all the other age groups; the bite force of 13-month to 18-month age group was significantly lower than those of sub-adult, adults and geriatric group; however, there was no significant difference between the latter three groups. The adult group has the highest feeding rate of bamboo shoots and carrots, followed successively by the sub-adult group, the geriatric groups and the juvenile group. In summary, our study confirmed for the first time the feasibility of measuring bite forces of giant pandas by using force transducer, recorded the developmental process of bite forces and feeding rate of juvenile giant pandas during the dental transitional period, and discussed the effect of age on bite forces and feeding rate, all of which laying a good foundation for future work of giant pandas’ feeding ecology. Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

Select

THE AGE DETERMINATION FOR GIANT PANDA WEI Fuwen 1, XU Guangzan 1, HU Jinchu 1, LI Pei 2    Abstract （1513）      PDF （1577KB）（2375）       Knowledge map    Save This paper reports the age determination methods for giant panda. The results are as follows:Having studied the incisor sections of known-age panda specimens,we find their age in years corresponds to the number of cementum annuli. The true age of a panda can be obtained by adding one to the number of cementum annuli,as the incisors drop away after they are one-year-old.Having studied the wear of molars we find the older the panda is, the more the molars wear. According to the wear of molars and skull growth we can divide the panda into six age classes: 0-2 years old, 3-4,5-9,10-14,15-19 and 20-26. It's more convenient to determine approximate age in the field by age classes without sectioning the incisors. Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Distribution pattern and zoogeographical discussion of mammals in Xin-jiang HUANG Wei,XIA Lin,FENG Zuojian,YANG Qisen    Abstract （3822）      PDF （882KB）（4003）       Knowledge map    Save Xinjiang is located in the northwestern portion of China. Altogether,138 species of mammals belonging to 8 orders and 22 families have been recorded by the authors in Xinjiang. Among them,119 species (86.2% of the total number of the mammals) are considered to be Palaearctic and 9 species to be Oriental mammals,with the others considered to be widely spread mammals. On the basis of regions of investigation,we identified 85 Operational Taxonomic Units (OTU) for clustering. Then the information of mammals in each was used to compute composition similarity for the 85 OTU using Ward's methods of cluster analysis. According to the composition of clustering analysis and of the local landform in Xinjiang etc. , the zoogeographic distribution can be divided into three grades. First, the region of northern part and Hami Basin is separated from the others in Xinjiang. Second,the region of the Altay Mountains is separated from the others in the north,while the region of northern Karakorum-Kunlun Mountains and southern Tarim Basin is separated from the others in the south. Third,the deltaic region of Yily,the region of southern Junggar Basin,the region of Tarbagatai Mountains and the northwest of Junggar Basin and the region of Hami Basin and western Tianshan Mountains are all separated from each, while the region of southern Tianshan Mountains and Pamir Altiplano and the region of northern Tarim Basin are separated from each other. Obviously,the distribution of species is associated with the environments where they live,and some natural barriers can restrict dispersal of mammals. Related Articles | Metrics

Select

A CHECKLIST OF THE MAMMALS OF XIZANG (TIBET) FENG Zuojian 1, CAI Guiquan 2, ZHENG Changlin 2    Abstract （1648）      PDF （3539KB）（1668）       Knowledge map    Save Ellerman and Morrion-Scott (1951), in their account of the mammals of the Palaearctic Region and Indian Subcontinent, listed 16 families 38 genera and 55 species from xizang (Tibet) .The Chinese Academy of Sciences organized the camprehensive expeditions to Xizang mainly during 1959 -1960, 1966-1968, and 1973-1976 and the Northwest Plateau Institute of Biology, Academia Sinica, also carried out surveys in the same region during 1973-1974 and 1977-1978. Altogether over 1,500 mammal specimens representing 21 families 67 genera and 127 species were identified, of which 1 species and 6 subspecies were considered as new to science, and also 3 species and 15 subspecies were reported as new records for China.In our checklist, we have added 4 more new records for China (These records are marked with an asterisk in the checklist). Related Articles | Metrics

Select

BEHAVIOR CODING AND ETHOGRAM OF THE PÈRE DAVID'S DEER JIANG Zhigang    Abstract （2725）      PDF （193KB）（2418）       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

Select

Sex-age differences in activity budget and position behavior of rhesus macaques ( Macaca mulatta) LI Dayong,ZHOU Qihai,TANG Huaxing,HUANG Chengming    Abstract （4378）      PDF （779KB）（2976）       Knowledge map    Save Data on activity budgets,activity heights,and semi-positional behaviors were collected from one provisioned group of Rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta )between November 2005 and October 2006 at Seven-star Park,Guilin, Guangxi Province,using an instantaneous scan sampling method. We compared the activity budgets,activity heights,and positional behaviors by sex-age or age classes. Our results indicated that the Rhesus macaque at Seven-star Park was a semiterrestrial species,and spent much time resting (41. 5% );sitting was the most frequently adopted resting (85.5% ) and feeding (85. 4% )posture. Quadrupedal walking was the most prevalent locomotor mode (64. 5% ). There were sex differences in activity budgets of adult individuals:adult females spent more time grooming than did adult males. They also differed among age classes:resting time tended to increase with age,whereas playing time decreased. There were also significant variations in activity height and locomotor mode for different age classes. Adults were more terrestrial than were other classes. They also walked quadrupedally more frequently than the other ages. Subadults leaped more frequently than did individuals of other ages. Juveniles climbed and bridged more frequently than did adults. These variations may be related to the differences in body sizes and activity levels of different ages,as well as to the discontinuous tree canopies. Our results will contribute to understanding the behavioral adaptation of different sex-age classes in rhesus macaques to their social and natural environment Related Articles | Metrics

Select

THE BIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF SUBTERRANEAN RODENTS AND THEIR ROLES IN ECOSYSTEM ZHANG Yanming LIU Jike    Abstract （1719）      PDF （118KB）（2118）       Knowledge map    Save The modifications of ecosystem structure, function and hemical defense of plant dealing with the underground grazing of subterranean rodents were focused in this paper. Their biological characteristics in different areas were reviewed. The relationships among subterranean rodents, soil, vegetation, and other mammals were discussed and the potential strategies of plant defense and feedback to global change were explored. Subterranean rodents would cause dramatic changes in ecosystem structures and functions because of their articularityin life style, behavior and population structure in nature. With the physical environments of soil being intensively altered by their underground excavating in spacial and temporal scales, the type, development, nutrition availability and microgeography. The underground grazing directly caused many character changes of plants in morphology and life history, leading to the obvious differences such as population abundance, interspecific competition, vegetation , species diversity, biomass and community structure. The strategies of plant defense in community had distinct chemical defense properties. Subterranean rodents were closely connected with other herbivorous mammals in interspecific competition , especially in spatial availability. They were important food resources for other carnivores in food web. In short, the effects of subterranean rodents on the biochemistry process, which contained ecosystem productivity, spatial heterogeneity, nutrition structure and cycling, carbon deposition and trace gas releasing were so intensive that were essential and unsubstitutable in nature. Related Articles | Metrics