Browsing by Author "Makundi, Rhodes H."

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Application of normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) to forecast rodent population abundance in smallholder agro-ecosystems in semi-arid areas in Tanzania
(ResearchGate, 2019-05) Hieronimo, Proches; Isabirye, Moses; Kifumba, David; Mulungu, Loth; Kimaro, Didas N; Makundi, Rhodes H.; Leirs, Herwig; Mulungu, Loth S.; Mdangi, Mashaka E.; Massawe, Apia W.
This study aimed to evaluate the potential use of normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) from satellite- derived remote sensing data for monitoring rodent abundance in semi-arid areas of Tanzania. We hypothesized that NDVI could potentially complement rainfall in predicting rodent abundance spatially and tem- porally. NDVI were determined across habitats with differ- ent vegetation types in Isimani landscape, Iringa Region, in the southern highlands of Tanzania. Normalized differ- ences in reflectance between the red (R) (0.636–0.673 mm) and near-infrared (NIR) (0.851–0.879 mm) channels of the electromagnetic spectrum from the Landsat 8 [Opera- tional Land Imager (OLI)] sensor were obtained. Rodents were trapped in a total of 144 randomly selected grids each measuring 100 × 100 m 2 , for which the corresponding values of NDVI were recorded during the corresponding rodent trapping period. Raster analysis was performed by transformation to establish NDVI in study grids over the entire study area. The relationship between NDVI, rodent distribution and abundance both spatially and tempo- rally during the start, mid and end of the dry and wet sea- sons was established. Linear regression model was used to evaluate the relationships between NDVI and rodent abundance across seasons. The Pearson correlation coefficient (r) at p ≤ 0.05 was carried out to describe thedegree of association between actual and NDVI-predicted rodent abundances. The results demonstrated a strong linear relationship between NDVI and actual rodent abundance within grids (R 2 = 0.71). NDVI-predicted rodent abundance showed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.99) with estimated rodent abundance. These results support the hypothesis that NDVI has the potential for predicting rodent population abundance under smallholder farming agro-ecosystems. Hence, NDVI could be used to forecast rodent abundance within a reasonable short period of time when compared with sparse and not widely available rainfall data.h
Assessment of rodent damage to stored maize (Zea mays L.) on smallholder farms in Tanzania
(Taylor & Francis, 2014) Mdangi, M.; Mulungu, Loth S.; Massawe, A.W.; Eiseb, S.J.; Tutjavi, V.; Kirsten, F.; Mahlaba, T.; Malebane, P.; Maltitz, E. von; Monadjem, A.; Dlamini, N.; Makundi, Rhodes H.
This study examined rodent damage, loss and contamination in stored maize on smallholder farms in East Africa. Different, novel techniques for assessing rodent damage, namely open and closed storage structures (cribs and sacks), were employed in a treatment-control trial design replicated across different households and hamlets within the Berega community of Central Tanzania. Significant correlations were observed between the monthly rates of rodent-damaged maize seeds, maize weight loss and the number of rodent droppings. Significant differences in damage, loss and contamination occurred between different storage structures (open and closed cribs and sacks). The mean monthly rate of damage was 40.4%, 7.9%, 17.7% and 0% percent in open cribs, closed cribs, open sacks and closed sacks, respectively. Our results suggest that reducing rodent infestation through the use of improved storage structures could lead to major savings in the amount and quality of stored food available to households, thus increasing food security.
Biodiversity of fruit flies (Diptera, Tephritidae) in orchards in different agro-ecological zones of the Morogoro region, Tanzania
(Cirad/EDP Sciences, 2006) Mwatawala, Maulid W. M; De Meyer, Marc; Makundi, Rhodes H.; Maerere, Amon P
Introduction. Fruit flies (Diptera, Tephritidae) are among the major constraints in commercial horticulture in many African developing countries. Knowledge of the tephritid spectrum in any given area is a prerequisite for the development of an IPM program to alleviate the pest problem. We studied the fruit fly diversity in four main agro-ecological zones which are significant fruit-producing areas in the Morogoro Region, Tanzania. Materials and methods. Fruit fly diversity was investigated for one year (October 2004 – October 2005). Parapheromones, synthetic food attractant and protein-bait traps were used to trap the flies at the different locations in Morogoro region, Tanzania. One mixed orchard was selected at each of four locations representing the different agro-ecological zones of the region. Results. The recently intro- duced alien species, Bactrocera invadens, and three indigenous pest species, Ceratitis rosa, Dacus bivittatus and D. punctatifrons, were found at all the four sites, while Bactrocera cucurbitae, Ceratitis cosyra, Dacus chiwira and D. humeralis were found in three out of the four sites. The Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) Horticulture Unit and Mikese sites had the highest species diversity while the Mkindo and Nyandira sites had the lowest diversity. The between-habitats diversity (Beta diversity) was similar among the SUA, Mkindo and Mikese sites. Only the Nyandira site had a higher dissimilarity in comparison with the other three sites. Discussion. The most abundant species at low- and mid-elevation sites was Bactrocera invadens while, at high elevation, Ceratitis rosa was the dominant species. Protein-baited traps attracted the highest diversity of fruit flies in comparison with the more specific parapheromones. The synthetic food attractant (three-component lure) was less efficient compared with the protein bait. The large dissimilarity at the Nyan- dira site is probably due to the different types of host fruits found and grown in high altitude areas (mainly temperate fruits). Fruit fly species associated with these types of fruits, e.g., Ceratitis rubivora and Tri- rhithrum coffeae, were found only at this site.
Biodiversity of fruit flies (Diptera, Tephritidae) in orchards in different agro-ecological zones of the Morogoro region, Tanzania
(Fruits, 2006) Mwatawala, M. W.; De Meyer, M.; Makundi, Rhodes H.; Maerere, A. P.
Introduction. Fruit flies (Diptera, Tephritidae) are among the major constraints in commercial horticulture in many African developing countries. Knowledge of the tephritid spectrum in any given area is a prerequisite for the development of an IPM program to alleviate the pest problem. We studied the fruit fly diversity in four main agro-ecological zones which are significant fruit-producing areas in the Morogoro Region, Tanzania. Materials and methods. Fruit fly diversity was investigated for one year (October 2004 – October 2005). Parapheromones, synthetic food attractant and protein-bait traps were used to trap the flies at the different locations in Morogoro region, Tanzania. One mixed orchard was selected at each of four locations representing the different agro-ecological zones of the region. Results. The recently introduced alien species, Bactrocera invadens, and three indigenous pest species, Ceratitis rosa, Dacus bivittatus and D. punctatifrons, were found at all the four sites, while Bactrocera cucurbitae, Ceratitis cosyra, Dacus chiwira and D. humeralis were found in three out of the four sites. The Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) Horticulture Unit and Mikese sites had the highest species diversity while the Mkindo and Nyandira sites had the lowest diversity. The between-habitats diversity (Beta diversity) was similar among the SUA, Mkindo and Mikese sites. Only the Nyandira site had a higher dissimilarity in comparison with the other three sites. Discussion. The most abundant species at low- and mid-elevation sites was Bactrocera invadens while, at high elevation, Ceratitis rosa was the dominant species. Protein-baited traps attracted the highest diversity of fruit flies in comparison with the more specific parapheromones. The synthetic food attractant (three-component lure) was less efficient compared with the protein bait. The large dissimilarity at the Nyandira site is probably due to the different types of host fruits found and grown in high altitude areas (mainly temperate fruits). Fruit fly species associated with these types of fruits, e.g., Ceratitis rubivora and Trirhithrum coffeae, were found only at this site.
Breeding dynamics of rodent species inhabiting farm–fallow mosaic fields in Central Tanzania
(African Zoology, 2012-02) Massawe, Apia W.; Makundi, Rhodes H.; Mulungu, Loth S.; Katakweba, Abdul; Shayo, Teresia N.
The breeding dynamics of three species of rodents, Mastomys natalensis, Aethomys chrysophilus and Gerbilliscus vicina were investigated in a seasonal environment (wet versus dry) in Berega in the eastern parts of central Tanzania. Berega has a distinct unimodal rainfall pattern, with most rainfall from November to April/May. We hypothesized that breeding of rodents in central Tanzania would be confined to the wet season, when unlimited resources would be available for reproduction. We provide evidence of breeding discontinuity in the three species, showing that breeding was seasonally restricted to the wet season and early in the dry season. The observed discontinuity could largely be ascribed to variation in primary productivity between the wet and dry seasons. Reproductively active females were found in the population as early as November, a month into the rainy season, but when early rains occurred, some individuals were already breeding in October. Breeding was more intensive in the latter part of the wet season (March–May) and completely ceased during the dry season. For M. natalensis, survival was highest in the wet period and low in the dry season. The study provides knowledge on the breeding dynamics of rodents in central Tanzania, which can help farmers to take proactive rodent management decisions to prevent high rodent densities and reduce crop damage in the fields. Application of control measures by the community early in the season when populations of reproductive females is lowest will be most rewarding.
Breeding patterns of Arvicanthis neumanni in central Tanzania
(Blackwell Publishing Ltd, Afr. J. Eco, 2007) Massawe, A. W.; Mrosso, F. P.; Makundi, Rhodes H.; Mulungu, Loth S.
The breeding pattern of the grass rat, Arvicanthis neumanni, was investigated in central Tanzania in 2002 ⁄ 2003. Nine hundred and forty-seven animals were captured in three age groups: juveniles, sub adults and adults. These age groups were present in the population for an extended duration, but there was an increase in the number of sexually active individuals and juveniles 2–3 months after the onset of the rains (December 2002–May 2003). A peak in reproductive activity occurred between January and April. Litter size ranged between 5.58 ± 0.42 and 6.1 ± 0.26 in two study sites. There were no significant differences in the number of embryos implanted in the right and left horns of the uterus of pregnant females (t 22 = 0, P > 0.05 and t 36 = 1.68, P > 0.05, respec- tively). Sex ratio of A. neumanni was not skewed to either males or females. Breeding was seasonal and seemed to be associated with seasonal variations in primary productiv- ity, which relates to rainfall patterns.
Breeding seasonality and population dynamics of three rodent species in the Magamba Forest Reserve, Western Usambara Mountains, north-east Tanzania
(Blackwell Publishing Ltd, 2006) Makundi, Rhodes H.; Massawe, A. W.; Mulungu, Loth S.
We investigated breeding seasonality and population dynamics of three rodent species, Lophuromys flavopuncatus, Grammomys dolichurus and Praomys delectorum, in the Magamba Forest, Western Usambara Mountains, northeast Tanzania. Capture–mark–recapture studies were conducted in 2002–2004. Reproductive conditions of males and females showed temporal variations, an indication of breeding seasonality. Animals were reproductively active between February and May. Rainfall in November–January was instrumental for the onset of breeding and continued throughout the wet season. The recruitment of new individuals born during the season led to highest population densities between end of May and August. Populations declined progressively towards the end of the dry season (September–October). Only P. delectorum showed a marked density increase during January–February, indicating greater survival and/or recruitment during the November– January rains. The study shows that despite a relatively stable environment of the forest reserve, rainfall has strong influence on reproduction and population dynamics, probably because of its effect on primary food resources. Key words: breeding, dynamics, Grammomys, Lophuromys, Praomys, Tanzania Re´sume´ Nous avons e´tudie´ la chronologie saisonnie`re de la reproduction et la dynamique de la population de trois espe`ces de rongeurs, Lophuromys flavopunctatus, Grammomys dolichurus et Praomys delectorum, dans la foreˆt de Magamba, dans la partie ouest des monts Usambara, au nord-est de la Tanzanie. Des e´tudes par capture – marquage – re-capture ont e´te´ re´alise´es en 2002 – 2004. La condition reproductrice des maˆles et des femelles pre´sentait des variations saisonnie`res, un indice de saisonnalite´ de la reproduction. Les animaux e´taient en e´tat de reproduction active entre fe´vrier et mai. Les chutes de pluie de novembre a` janvier e´taient tre`s importantes pour le de´clenchement de la reproduction et continuaient pendant toute la saison des pluies. Le recrutement de nouveaux individus ne´s durant cette saison conduisait a` une densite´ de population qui culminait entre fin mai et aouˆ t. Les populations de´clinaient progressivement jusque vers la fin de la saison se`che (septembre – octobre). Seul P. delectorum montrait un taux de recrutement et/ou de survie plus e´leve´ pendant les pluies de novembre a` janvier. Cette e´tude montre que malgre´ l’environnement relativement stable de la re´serve forestie`re, les chutes de pluie ont une forte influence sur la reproduction et la dynamique des populations, probablement a` cause de leur effet sur les ressources primaires en nourriture.
Challenges in pest management in agriculture: African and global perspectives
(Management of Selected Crop Pests in Tanzania, 2006) Makundi, Rhodes H.
The major goals of agriculture worldwide are to produce sufficient food for the growing population, to generate incomes for farmers and to boost the Gross Domestic Product through the agricultural industry. With the increasing urbanisation there is a corresponding increased demand for food by the urban population, which is itself not directly involved in crop production. Africa has a relatively large rural population, consisting mainly of small-holder farmers whose contribution to the economies of individual countries is highly significant. However one of the major constraints in crop production in Africa is the damage caused by diseases and pests, particularly arthropods, vertebrates, and weeds. In all world economies, wherever new innovations and high technological inputs have boosted agricultural production, pest problems have increased or have become more severe. World wide these pests account for losses of about 36% of the potential yield, and in storage, another 14% of the potential yield is lost (FAO 1973). Africa has experienced many changes in agriculture in the last 5 decades, through improvement in farming systems, pest and disease management and increased yield of both staple and cash crops. Research aimed at producing crop varieties that are high yielding, and with other desirable characteristics like drought and pest tolerance has become intensified in the last 3 decades. However, these developments have not always reached the small-holder farmers or have been inadequate. Pests, particularly arthropods and vertebrates continue to ravage the crops and without proper crop protection systems, farmers shall lose all or a large proportion of their crops. These pests are controlled mainly with pesticides when these are available. However, serious problems often arise from their indiscriminate use, particularly through the disruption of the natural ecosystem and pollution. These consequences are unacceptable and call for the need to develop pest management strategies, which are appropriate, hence sustainable, and cost effective in maintaining the pest population below the economic thresholds, while at the same time conserving the environment. The purpose of the chapter is to focus on pest management strategies and the challenges before us, particularly on feasible research and technologies that can be used to reduce the damage and losses caused by pests.
Comparative and functional morphology of the middle ear in Zambezian mole-rats (Coetomys – Cryptomys, Bathyergidae)
(Belg. J. Zool, 2005-12) Leirs, Herwig; Makundi, Rhodes H.; Davis, Stephen; Lange, Simone; Burda, Hynek; Assogbadjo, A.E.; Codjia, J.T.C.; Sinsin, B.; Ekue, M.R.M.; Mensah, G.A.; Mgode, G.F.; Mhamphi, G.A.; Katakweba, A. W.; Paemelaere, E; Willekens, N.; Leirs, H.; Machang’u, R.S.; Hartskeerl, R.A.
Within the family Bathyergidae, the genus Coetomys (Cryptomys) is the most speciose. However, an unambiguous morphological or morphometrical species diagnosis has not been feasible to date. The middle ear structures involved in sound transmission were examined and measured in six species of Zambezian mole-rats of varying body sizes : Coetomys amatus, C. anselli, C. darlingi, C. kafuensis, C. mechowi and C. whytei. Compari- sons revealed many differences in the shape of the middle ear ossicles allowing species differentiation. Bullar vol- ume, eardrum area and cross-sectional area of the bony meatus were positively correlated with body size (as repre- sented by condylo-basal length) whereas the size of middle ear ossicles was rather independent of body size. Middle ears shared typical features with those found in low-frequency hearing mammals. Contrary to the findings in heter- omyids and the Spalax ehrenbergi species complex, within the genus Coetomys, those species occupying more mesic habitats had more efficient tympano-ossicular systems (suggesting more sensitive hearing) than species from drier habitats.
Comparative efficacy of neem, Azadirachta indica, extract for- mulations and the synthetic acaricide, Amitraz (Mitac), against the two spotted spider mites, Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetra- nychidae), on tomatoes, Lycopersicum esculentum.
(Eugen Ulmer GmbH & Co., Stuttgart, 2002) Makundi, Rhodes H.; Kashenge, Sophia
We evaluated the efficacy of commercial formulations of neem (Azadirachta indica) extracts against the two-spotted spider mites, Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae), on tomatoes and compared them with the synthetic acaricide, amitraz. The neem formulations showed variable levels of protection of tomatoes against infestation by T. urticae. Neemroc EC was the most effective and the level of protection was comparable to that of amitraz. The neem formulations, except Neemros WP, showed strong ovipositional deterrence of T. urticae and suppressed the emergence of nymphs on treated leaf discs. Repeated application of the neem formulations and amitraz led to significant reduction of the population size of mites on tomatoes, compared to the control. However, Neemroc EC was the most effective in reducing leaf damage, whereas Saroneem, Neemroc Combi and Neemros WP-treated tomatoes had high leaf damage ratings associated with lower fruit weight. The high performance of Neemroc EC is attributed to the oil content in this formulation, particularly when compared with Neemroc WP whose concentration of azadirachtin was very high and yet the effectiveness against mites was very low. Neemroc EC was as effective as the standard and therefore an alternative to amitraz for protecting tomatoes against infestation by T. urticae.
Demography, reproductive biology and diet of the bushveld gerbil Tatera leucogaster (Rodentia: Gerbillinae) in the Lake Rukwa valley, south-western Tanzania
(Blackwell Publishing, 2008) ODHIAMBO, Richard O.; Makundi, Rhodes H.; LEIRS, Herwig; VERHAGEN, Ron
Seasonal abundance, reproductive biology and feeding ecology of the bushveld gerbil Tatera leucogaster (Peters, 1852) were investigated in small-scale maize field–fallow land mosaics in south-western Tanzania. The gerbils were collected over a 2-year period using Sherman live and Victor hold-fast snap traps in permanent 4.5-ha grids. A total of 664 individuals were captured over 13 650 trap nights, giving an overall trap success rate of 4.9%. Trap success varied between seasons with and without crops in the field but not between habitat types. At this site, the breeding activity of this species is seasonal. All individuals whose stomachs were analyzed ate a wide range of items, indicating omnivory in this species at this site; however, seeds were the most preferred diet category, with a mean contribution of 50.4%, followed by arthropods, with a mean contribution of 25.7%. Other plant materials became important during the very dry periods.
Design of an ecologically-based IPM program for fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) in Tanzania
(Cirad/EDP Sciences, 2009) Mwatawala, Maulid W. M; De Meyer, Marc; Makundi, Rhodes H.; Maerere, Amon P
Introduction. Studies to determine the pre-requisites for formulating an IPM pro- gram for fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) were conducted in the Morogoro region, Central Tanzania, from 2004 to 2006. Specifically, studies aimed at determining the biodiversity of fruit flies, marc.de.meyer@africamuseum.be and their incidence and abundance in the surveyed region. Materials and methods. Adult flies were collected using McPhail traps baited with parapheromones (methyl eugenol, trimedlure 3 and cue lure) and synthetic food baits (hydrolyzed yeast and three-component lure). Flies were also collected from infested fruits after incubation in the laboratory. A total of four sites and neighboring areas representing the three agro-ecological zones of Morogoro region were used. Results. Two key fruit fly pests were determined based on incidence in major fruits and their seasonal abundance. The invasive fruit fly, Bactrocera invadens Drew, Tsuruta and White, is the key pest in the low and medium altitude areas. On the other hand, the Natal fruit fly, Ceratitis rosa Karsch, is the key frugivorous pest in the high altitude areas. Discussion. Management programs of fruit flies need to focus on key pests, taking into consideration their breeding in the non-agricultural habitats. Components of such a program should include the Male Annihi- lation Technique (MAT), legislation, use of parapheromones and baits, farm hygiene and sani- tation, quarantine, surveillance and postharvest treatment.
Detection of the solanum fruit fly, Bactrocera latifrons (Hendel) in Tanzania (Dipt., Tephritidae)
(Blackwell Verlag, Berlin, 2007) Mwatawala, M.; De Mayer, M.; White, I. M.; Maerere, A.; Makundi, Rhodes H.
The presence of the Solanum fruit fly, Bactrocera latifrons, in Africa is reported for the first time, based on trapped and reared specimens in Tanzania. Two new host records, Solanum aethiopicum and Solanum macrocarpon, are reported.
Development of eight polymorphic microsatellite markers in the Black and Rufous sengi, Rhynchocyon petersi
(Conservation Genetics Resources, 2014-09) Sabuni, Christopher A.; Houtte, Natalie Van; Maganga, Samwel L. S.; Makundi, Rhodes H.; Leirs, Herwig; Bellocq, Joelle Gouy de
The Black and Rufous sengi, Ryhnchocyon petersi, is endemic to a limited range in East Africa. We report the development of eight polymorphic microsatellites using next generation sequencing technology. Eighteen individuals from Zaraninge forest (Saadani National Park, Tanzania) were genotyped. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 2 to 6, while the observed and expected heterozygosities varied from 0.17 to 0.82 and from 0.25 to 0.81, respectively. No locus deviated from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. These microsatellite markers will be useful tools to study the effect of habitat fragmentation on the population genetic structure of R. petersi.
Dietary differences of the multimammate mouse, Mastomys natalensis (Smith, 1834), across different habitats and seasons in Tanzania and Swaziland
(CSIRO PUBLISHING, 2011-11) Mulungu, Loth S.; Mahlaba, Themb’alilahlwa A.; Massawe, Apia W.; Kennis, Jan; Crauwels, Dieter; Eiseb, Seth; Monadjem, Ara; Makundi, Rhodes H.; Katakweba, Abdul A. S.; Leirs, Herwig; Belmain, Steven R.
eastern Africa where it can cause significant crop losses. Mastomys natalensis is known to consume a variety of food in response to the availability of food items. However, it is currently unknown whether maize crop growth stages affect the spatio-temporal diet of this species. Aims. We examined the foods consumed by M. natalensis in different habitats and seasons in central Tanzania and Swaziland. Methods. Diet was investigated in Tanzania in four different habitats (woodland, vegetable gardens, maize fields and fallow land) during different maize crop growth stages between March 2008 and February 2009. In Swaziland, this was conducted in three habitats (fallow land, cultivated fields and pristine land) during three crop growth stages (pre-planting, vegetative stage and post-harvest) between March 2008 and April 2009. Micro-histological examination of undigested fragments from the stomachs of trapped animals was made whereby the preserved stomach content was placed in a Petri dish and sorted using a 25 or 50 magnification binocular stereoscope. Stomach contents were identified as: grain and/or seeds (both grasses and maize), plant material (roots, stems and leaves), invertebrates, pods of seeds, fruits (vegetable fruit such as tomato), animal hairs and unidentified matter. If necessary, a lugol solution was used to determine the presence of starch for maize and grass seeds or grains. Key results. In both countries, grain predominated in the diet of M. natalensis. Statistical analyses showed that there were no differences due to seasons or habitats. Therefore, the percentage volume and relative importance were the same across habitats and seasons in both countries. Conclusions. Our findings highlight clearly that M. natalensis is a generalist species feeding on available resources depending on the season and the habitat. Its preference for grain may account for its abundance in maize plantations and confirms it as one of the major pests in crop plantations, especially grain. Implications. This information offers a useful tool for determining the pest status in different habitats and/or seasons. The findings of this study have implications for agriculture and conservation.
Differences in diet between two rodent species, Mastomys natalensis and Gerbilliscus vicinus, in fallow land habitats in central Tanzania
(2011-10) Mulungu, Loth S.; Massawe, Apia W.; Kennis, Jan; Crauwels, Dieter; Eiseb, Seth; Mahlaba, Themb’alilahlwa A.; Monadjem, Ara; Makundi, Rhodes H.; Katakweba, Abdul A. S.; Leirs, Herwig; Belmain, Steven R.
Differences in the ecological niche requirements among rodent species competing in the same habitat may result from differences in the use of one to three resources: space, time and food or some combination of these. Alternatively, differences in resource use utilization among animal species may simply reflect availability of food, and when food is limited, different animal species compete. In this study, the diet of two rodent pest species, Mastomys natalensis and Gerbilliscus vicinus, coexisting in fallow land in central Tanzania were studied to assess the degree of diet differentiation among them. Dietary niche breadth of G. vicinus was greater than that of M. natalensis in all stages of the maize cropping seasons. The rodent species studied overlapped considerably in the food items consumed ranging from niche overlap (Ojk) of 0.77–0.89. Grains/seeds featured high in the diet of M. natalensis while plant material occurrence was high in G. vicinus. These two food categories may have contributed to differences in diet partitioning, which may, in turn, facilitate their coexistence in fallow land.
Distribution and ecology of lesser pouched rat, Beamys hindei, in Tanzanian coastal forests
(Integrative Zoology, 2015) Sabuni, Christopher A.; Sluydts, Vincent; Mulungu, Loth S.; Maganga, Samwel L.S.; Makundi, Rhodes H.; Leirs, Herwig
The lesser pouched rat, Beamys hindei, is a small rodent that is patchily distributed in the Eastern Arc Mountains and coastal forests in East Africa. The ecology of this species and its current distribution in coastal forests is not well known. Therefore, we conducted a study in selected coastal forests to assess the current distribution of the species and to investigate the population ecology in terms of abundance fluctuations and demographic patterns. Assessments of the species distribution were conducted in 5 forests through trapping with Sherman live traps. Data on ecology were obtained from monthly capture–mark–recapture studies conducted for 5 consecutive nights per month in two 1 ha grids set in Zaraninge Forest over a 2-year period. The results indicate the presence of B. hindei in 3 forests where it was not previously recorded. The population abundance estimates ranged from 1 to 40 animals per month, with high numbers recorded during rainy seasons. Reproduction patterns and sex ratios did not differ between months. Survival estimates were not influenced by season, and recruitment was low, with growth rate estimates of 1 animal per month. These estimates suggest a stable population of B. hindei in Zaraninge Forest. Further studies are recommended to establish the home range, diet and burrowing behavior of the species in coastal forests in East Africa.
Diversity and distribution of rodent and shrew species associated with variations in altitude on Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
(Walter de Gruyte, 2008) Mulungu, L.S.; Makundi, Rhodes H.; Massawe, Apia W.; Machang'u, Robert S.; MbiJe, Nsajigwa
A total of 750 rodents and shrews were trapped in sev- eral sites on Mount (Mt.) Kilimanjaro and in two lowland sites between October 2002 and August 2003. Species diversity variations with altitude and their distribution were established. Diversity of species varied with vege- tation type, being highest in the forest and lowest in the lowland areas. The distribution patterns and species diversity of the rodents and shrews were also influenced by habitat complexity and heterogeneity. Species rich- ness was higher in the forest compared to the other areas. The study generally shows that the Mt. Kilimanjaro has high rodent and shrew species diversity and richness.
Do farming practices influence population dynamics of rodents? A case study of the multimammate field rats, Mastomys natalensis, in Tanzania
(Blackwell Publishing Ltd, Afr. J. Ecol., 2006) Massawe, A. W.; Rwamugira, W; Leirs, H; Makundi, Rhodes H.; Mulungu, Loth S.
A capture-mark-recapture study was conducted in crop fields in Morogoro, Tanzania, to investigate how the population dynamics of multimammate field rats, Mastomys natalensis, was influenced by the commonly practised land preparation methods and cropping systems. Two land preparation methods (tractor ploughing and slash and burn) and two cropping systems (mono-cropping with maize and inter-cropping with maize and beans) were investigated in a Complete Randomized Design experiment with 2 · 2 factors, and two 0.5 ha replicates per treatment. Mastomys natalensis comprised 97.8% of the abundance of the three rodent species captured in the study area. The slash and burned fields had higher rodent population densities than tractor ploughed fields (P < 0.05). Recruitment rates were higher in the slash and burn fields than in the tractor ploughed fields, suggesting that the former were more favourable habitats for M. natalensis. Land preparation methods appeared to influence the population dynamics of M. natalensis through recruitment of new individuals in the population and most probably survival. Apart from the temporal changes in population density, which were reflected in both tractor ploughed and slash and burn fields, cropping systems (mono- and inter-crop) had little effect on the population dynamics of M. natalensis [F(1,8) ¼ 6.50; P > 0.05]. The study shows that land preparation methods should be considered a component of rodent pest management in ecologically based or integrated management practices. In maize fields in Tanzania, the crop is most susceptible to damage by M. natalensis in the first 2 weeks after planting, and therefore, lower densities of rodents will result into lower crop damage in tractor ploughed fields.
Does exploratory behavior or activity in a wild mouse explain susceptibility to virus infection?
(Oxford university press., 2017-09) Makundi, Rhodes H.; Massawe, Apia W; Leirs, Herwig; Hughes, Nelika K; Broecke, Bram V; Borremans, Benny; Mariën, Joachim
Exploration and activity are often described as trade-offs between the fitness benefits of gathering information and resources, and the potential costs of increasing exposure to predators and para- sites. More exploratory individuals are predicted to have higher rates of parasitism, but this relationship has rarely been examined for virus infections in wild populations. Here, we used the multimammate mouse Mastomys natalensis to investigate the relationship between exploration, activity, and infection with Morogoro virus (MORV). We characterized individual exploratory behav- ior (open field and novel object tests) and activity (trap diversity), and quantified the relationship between these traits and infection status using linear regression. We found that M. natalensis expresses consistent individual differences, or personality types, in exploratory behavior (repeat- ability of 0.30, 95% CI: 0.21–0.36). In addition, we found a significant contrasting effect of age on ex- ploration and activity where juveniles display higher exploration levels than adults, but lower field- activity. There was however no statistical evidence for a behavioral syndrome between these 2 traits. Contrary to our expectations, we found no correlation between MORV infection status and exploratory behavior or activity, which suggests that these behaviors may not increase exposure probability to MORV infection. This would further imply that variation in viral infection between individuals is not affected by between-individual variation in exploration and activity.