Population dynamics and preliminary estimates of harvestability of the Patagonia guanaco
This study provided base data on the guanaco (Lama guanicoe) population at Torres del Paine National Park, Chile, and explored the potential for sustained yield harvesting using a deterministic, density independent, matrix simulation model. The mean exponential growth rate of the population calculated from 1981 to 1984 censuses was r = 0.12. The mean natality rate was 0.74 offspring/female greater than 2 year old. Family groups averaged 7 females each during the summer breeding season. Thirty-seven percent of the males older than 1 year old possessed territories and the other 63 percent were in male groups in a zone apart from the breeding territories. Forty-five percent of the territorial males had family groups and 55 percent were solitary. Most 1 to 3-year-old males spent the summer in male groups and became territorial when 4 year old. Matrix modeling indicated than roughly 15 percent of the newborn guanacos could be harvested annually for skins. If the average territorial male bred 7 females per year, roughly 40 percent of the males in male groups could be harvested without disrupting or diminishing reproduction and population size. The matrix simulation model used shows promise in modelling the population dynamics and harvesting of guanacos, but until more accurate estimates of age-specific natality and survival rates can be made, the present projections are considered preliminary
| Main Authors: | , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Texto biblioteca |
| Language: | eng |
| Published: |
Cuzco (Perú)
1985
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