Abstract

NOVILLO, Agustina  and  OJEDA, Ricardo A. Biogeografía ecológica de los ensambles de pequeños mamíferos en los Andes centrales de Argentina. Rev. Mus. Argent. Cienc. Nat. [online]. 2018, vol.20, n.1, pp.137-149. ISSN 1853-0400.

The Andes constitutes an extensive mountain range and a true laboratory for the study of the evolution of South American biota. In recognition to José Yepes, one of the pioneers in characterizing the distribution of mammals of Argentina we seek in this contribution to synthesize, from ecological biogeography, the knowledge we have about the diversity patterns of small mammals of the Central Arid Andes (ACA). We characterize regional and local patterns of rodent richness and endemism as a function of latitude, altitude and area. At regional scale, we constructed a species database using species range maps, meanwhile at the local scale, we conducted small mammal surveys using standardized techniques along 4 elevational transects between 32ºS and 35ºS. Among the results, we highlight, at regional level: a) a high number of endemisms (> 50%); b) richness increase with elevation, and c) endemic species - area relationship. Among the results at local level we stress: d) richness increases with elevation, mean precipitation and topographic heterogeneity, and e) greater abundance at intermediate elevations. Biogeographic-ecological research allows us to depict patterns of composition and distribution of the central Andean biodiversity, and assess some of its causal factors. However, the long term conservation of the Andes requires not only solid biological / ecological knowledge but also conservation policies that integrate the biological, social and cultural dimensions of the Andean ecosystem. This approach seems the most appropriate alternative in the face of the different impacts induced by man and the climate change in the region.

Keywords : Rodents; Andes; Environmental gradient; Species diversity.