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Evolutionary, molecular and comparative zoology
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REVIEW
Contents Vol 57(5)

Interactions between chuditch (Dasyurus geoffroii) and introduced predators: a review

A. S. Glen A B D , P. J. de Tores A B C , D. R. Sutherland A B and K. D. Morris B C
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

A Department of Environment & Conservation, Dwellingup Research Centre, Banksiadale Rd, Dwellingup, WA 6213, Australia.

B Invasive Animals Cooperative Research Centre, Room D1, Building 3, University of Canberra, Kirinari Street, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia.

C Department of Environment & Conservation, Woodvale Research Centre, Wildlife Place, Woodvale, WA 6026, Australia.

D Corresponding author. Email: al.glen@dec.wa.gov.au

Australian Journal of Zoology 57(5) 347-356 https://doi.org/10.1071/ZO09041
Submitted: 7 April 2009  Accepted: 17 October 2009   Published: 20 November 2009

Abstract

The chuditch is a carnivorous marsupial that has suffered catastrophic decline since European settlement in Australia. The impacts of introduced foxes and feral cats are thought to have contributed to this decline. Although chuditch populations appear to respond favourably to fox control, ecological theory predicts that other predators, including feral cats, are also likely to increase in abundance when foxes are removed. The flow-on effects of these predicted increases are not known, but are potentially significant for chuditch and for other native fauna. Here, we review the evidence for limiting effects of foxes and feral cats on chuditch populations. We also discuss the likely effects on chuditch populations (direct and indirect) of current fox control practices. Using recent advances in carnivore community ecology, we make testable predictions regarding likely interactions within the predator guild. Experiments should adopt a whole-of-community approach, seeking to clarify the effects of fox control on the entire suite of native and introduced predators, as well as on the abundance and diversity of prey.


Acknowledgements

A. Glen and D. Sutherland are supported by postdoctoral fellowships from the Invasive Animals CRC.


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Appendix 1.  Studies included in the meta-analysis of diet for chuditch (Dasyurus geoffroii), foxes (Vulpes vulpes), feral cats (Felis catus), wedge-tailed eagles (Aquila audax), varanid lizards (Varanus rosenbergi and V. gouldii) and western carpet pythons (Morelia spilota imbricata)
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