Characteristics of small rodent populations in different forest types

Abstract

The characteristics of small rodent populations were studied using live trappings conducted in a natural deciduous forest and a Japanese larch Larix leptolepis plantation on Mt. Maehwa, Hongcheon, Gangwon Province, South Korea. Foliage profiles of understory (1-2 m), mid-stoiy (2-8 m) and overstoiy (20-30 m) vegetation coverage were higher in the Japanese larch plantation than in the natural deciduous forest. The distribution of diameter at breast height of trees did not differ between study areas. Similarly, the species richness of small rodents did not differ between areas. The number, age structure and sex ratio of captured individuals varied between months. An understanding of habitat characteristics and small rodent population dynamics is essential for forest management. Long-term ecological studies of changes in small rodent populations and their habitat that are caused by thinning and forest tending are needed. © Medwell Journals, 2014.