ABSTRACT

Gomortega keule is an endangered tree species, the single extant species of a monotypic family. It is safeguarded only in one protected area. Its recruitment and germination are low, possibly in part because rodents prey on the seeds. However, it remains unknown if any rodent preys upon its large fruit and if so, to what extent. In this work we aimed to evaluate the interaction and possible predation of the invasive species Rattus rattus on G. keule. We recorded with camera traps the visits and behaviour of different animal species with the fruit of G. keule. We obtained a total of 90 records. The only animal species that interacted with the fruit during the 14-day observation period was R. rattus, eating and carrying away the fruit. This could constitute an additional threat to G. keule. Despite the evidence of seeds chewed by rodents, it would be useful to document the fates of seeds to confirm our conclusions and understand this interaction. However, in the meantime we recommend increasing propagation and protection of seedlings, and also taking actions against R. rattus in the only protected area where this endangered tree is present.

摘要

Gomortega keule是濒临灭绝的树种，是单型科的单种现存树种。它仅在一个保护区内得到保护。它的募集和发芽率很低，可能部分是因为啮齿动物捕食种子。但是，尚不清楚是否有啮齿动物捕食它的大果实，如果如此，会捕食到什么程度。在这项工作中，我们的目的是评估入侵物种Rattus rattus在G.keule上的相互作用和可能的捕食。我们记录的相机陷阱不同动物物种与水果的访问和行为G. keule。我们总共获得90条记录。在14天的观察期内，与果实发生相互作用的唯一动物物种是褐家鼠（R. rattus）。，食用和带走水果。这可能构成对克雷氏菌的另一种威胁。尽管有种子被啮齿动物咀嚼的证据，但记录下种子的命运以确认我们的结论并理解这种相互作用将是有用的。但是，与此同时，我们建议增加幼苗的繁殖和保护，并在存在这种濒危树的唯一受保护区域内采取行动来防治褐家鼠。