Literaturdatenbank
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Pike, D. A. (2005). Spatial learning in a hatchling chelonian, gopherus polyphemus. Florida Scientist, 68(4), 267–271.
Added by: Admin (14 Aug 2008 20:31:54 UTC) |
| Resource type: Journal Article BibTeX citation key: Pike2005 View all bibliographic details  |
Categories: General Keywords: Gopherus, Gopherus polyphemus, Schildkröten = turtles + tortoises, Testudinidae, Verhalten = ethology Creators: Pike Collection: Florida Scientist |
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| Abstract |
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Testudinidae Current research is demonstrating that turtles can readily navigate through their environment, even to the point of taking the shortest distance between subhabitats or subpopulations. The mechanisms behind large-scale spatial orientation have been attributed to several factors, including following magnetic forces, lunar location, and water currents. However, on smaller scales it is likely that adult turtles have learned the location of surrounding habitats (rather than relying on external spatial cues), and are therefore familiar with the spatial location of nearby resources. The life stage at which turtles begin to explore their environment and become familiar with their surroundings is currently unknown. Using radio telemetry, I investigated whether hatchling gopher tortoises (Gopherus polyphemus) returned to burrows they previously inhabited, indicating they can re-locate learned resources within the environment. Hatchlings returned to previously used burrows, and this was dependent upon the total number of burrows excavated. Body size and longevity did not affect this behavior. The longevity of turtles and tortoises suggests that they may gather spatial information on their surroundings throughout their entire lives. When designing conservation plans it is important to take into account the familiarity of the focal species with surrounding areas so that spatial disorientation does not occur.
Added by: Admin |