Kymberly J. Robinson, D. Limpus, Brad Crosbie, Colin J. Limpus, L. Fabbro
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
The echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) is documented as a new native predator of freshwater turtle eggs, particularly those of the vulnerable Fitzroy River turtle (Rheodytes leukops), and the critically endangered white-throated snapping turtle (Elseya albagula). This depredation has been identified in the Fitzroy, Burnett and Mary Catchments with echidnas recorded at traditional turtle nesting banks using direct observation of depredation of eggs, remote camera footage and identification of tracks. Echidnas were observed at traditional nesting banks for E. albagula and R. leukops nesting across eight months of the year. The presence of echidnas was more frequent during the R. leukops nesting season in spring. R. leukops is endemic to the Fitzroy Catchment and the depredation rate of eggs was significantly higher than for other species and catchments. The mean top egg depth of R. leukops nests was found to be the same depth as the echidna’s beak length. There was a significant increase in depredation during the five-year study period, with 47.4% of R. leukops clutches depredated by echidna in the 2022 season. This substantial loss of eggs and recruitment of hatchling turtles poses a significant threat to the populations of this threatened species.
期刊介绍:
Australian Journal of Zoology is an international journal publishing contributions on evolutionary, molecular and comparative zoology. The journal focuses on Australasian fauna but also includes high-quality research from any region that has broader practical or theoretical relevance or that demonstrates a conceptual advance to any aspect of zoology. Subject areas include, but are not limited to: anatomy, physiology, molecular biology, genetics, reproductive biology, developmental biology, parasitology, morphology, behaviour, ecology, zoogeography, systematics and evolution.
Australian Journal of Zoology is a valuable resource for professional zoologists, research scientists, resource managers, environmental consultants, students and amateurs interested in any aspect of the scientific study of animals.
Australian Journal of Zoology is published with the endorsement of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and the Australian Academy of Science.