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Factors influencing the distribution of the mole rat, Cryptomys zechi (Rodentia, Bathyergidae) in Ghana
Author(s) -
Yeboah S.,
Akyeampong S.
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
african journal of ecology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.499
H-Index - 54
eISSN - 1365-2028
pISSN - 0141-6707
DOI - 10.1046/j.1365-2028.2000.00286.x
Subject(s) - plough , loam , mole , biology , silt , distribution (mathematics) , ecology , agronomy , soil water , mathematics , paleontology , biochemistry , mathematical analysis
Factors influencing the distribution of the Ghana mole rat Cryptomys zechi were investigated in a small part of the middle Volta basin of Ghana where it is endemic. Soil type appeared to be the most important factor controlling mole rat distribution in the area; the mole rats preferred areas where the soil was silt loam. In areas where mole rats were found, local distribution was influenced by food availability and land preparation methods for farming. The highest concentrations of mole rat colonies were found in farmlands where traditional hoe ploughing is used for land preparation and where plants with underground storage organs were more diverse; the lowest concentration was in farms where mechanized ploughing is used for land preparation.