Abstract

The coexistence of species is a fundamental concept studied in ecology. Inherent within it are the concepts of a niche and resource partitioning. In this review I will define these basic concepts and examine how they have been studied using ungulates as a model system. Specifically, I will discuss resource use in ungulate systems and how those resources are partitioned across space and time. I will also discuss important factors in studying the coexistence of ungulate communities, namely the roles of physiology, body mass, and landscape variation. I will also briefly go over the newer, genetic methods are now available to answer more in depth questions on the mechanisms maintaining coexistence within these communities.

Keywords

deer; Cervidae; browsing; grazing

Published in

Introductory research essay (Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Wildlife, Fish and Environmental Studies)
2012, number: 17
Publisher: Institutionen för vilt, fisk och miljö, Sveriges lantbruksuniversitet

Authors' information