Work

Feeding ecology of two rodent species, Ctenodactylus gundi and Ctenodactylus vali (Ctenodactylidae), in North-western Algerian Sahara

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: We investigated the feeding ecology of the two Ctenodactylus species, Ctenodactylus gundi and Ctenodactylus vali , in the Bechar region (North-western Algerian Sahara) over a two-year period, using microhistological analysis of faecal samples, including the first quantitative data on the diet of C. vali . Both species are strictly herbivorous, feeding on leaves, fruits, seeds, stems, and flowers. Ctenodactylus gundi , which inhabits semi-arid regions, exhibited a broad and opportunistic diet (27 plant species), whereas C. vali , found in more arid regions, showed a more specific diet, dominated by Amaranthaceae. Both diets reflect local and seasonal plant availability following rainfalls, with mainly Chrysanthemum macrocarpum and Capparis spinosa for C. gundi, Haloxylon scoparium, Atriplex halimus and Salsola vermiculata for C. vali . Although competitive interactions may occur, differences in both diets seem mainly due to climatic conditions that support the parapatric range of the two species.

Source: Mammalia

DOI: 10.1515/mammalia-2025-0127

Authors: Fatine Lasgaa, Farid Bounaceur, Stéphane Aulagnier

Institutions: Tissemsilt University, Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement, Comportement et Écologie de la Faune Sauvage, Université de Toulouse

Language: English

Topic: Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies

Subfield: Ecology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Life on land

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,712