Mammalia, Lagomorpha, Leporidae, Oryctolagus cuniculus Linneaus, 1758: new record and its potential dispersal corridors for northern Mendoza, Argentina

The introduction of exotic species can cause important changes in the structure and function of natural ecosystems. This note reports the introduction of the European rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus, into Villavicencio Natural Reserve in Mendoza, Argentina. Individuals were introduced from a breeding...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Maria Cuevas, Veronica Chillo, Ariadna Marchetta, Ricardo Ojeda
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Pensoft Publishers 2011-12-01
Series:Check List
Online Access:https://checklist.pensoft.net/article/18259/download/pdf/
Description
Summary:The introduction of exotic species can cause important changes in the structure and function of natural ecosystems. This note reports the introduction of the European rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus, into Villavicencio Natural Reserve in Mendoza, Argentina. Individuals were introduced from a breeding facility within the reserve. This study assessed the possible establishment of the species as well as its potential dispersal corridors. Our findings suggest that the rabbit could be using the riverbeds as dispersal corridors. We consider that O. cuniculus is in the establishment stage and can become a potential invader of new environments in the reserve and surrounding areas.
ISSN:1809-127X