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" Systematics, distribution, and zoogeography of mammals of Tunisia "
B. M. Gharaibeh
R. J. Baker
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Latin Dissertation
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| Language of Document
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English
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| Record Number
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1113054
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| Doc. No
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TLpq304390210
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| Main Entry
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B. M. Gharaibeh
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R. J. Baker
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| Title & Author
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Systematics, distribution, and zoogeography of mammals of Tunisia\ B. M. GharaibehR. J. Baker
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| College
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Texas Tech University
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| Date
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1997
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| student score
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1997
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| Degree
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Ph.D.
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| Page No
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354
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| Abstract
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The taxonomic identity of each species of mammals that occurs in the Republic of Tunisia, North Africa has been determined to the subspecific level. History of names was followed and descriptions of types were studied to better provide opinions on the nomenclature and minimize the confusion existing in the literature concerning the taxonomic identity of many Tunisian species. Keys to distinguish related taxa were constructed and maps depicting the distribution of species within the borders of Tunisia and in the whole North African region were drawn. These maps show original records obtained during this study as well as records reported in the literature. Furthermore, the available natural history information on the Tunisian mammal fauna and background information on the vegetation, rainfall, topography, and land forms of the country were presented. Chromosomal G-band data for Meriones shawi from Tunisia, hitherto unavailable, was used to reexamine proposed chromosomal homologies and update the phylogenetic tree of Family Gerbillidae. G-banded chromosomal complement for Jaculus orientalis was reported. Notable differences in pelage color were seen between populations of the North African elephant shrew, Elephantulus rozeti in northern and southern Tunisia. However no disjunction was seen in morphometric measurements using principal component analysis (PCA). Differences in pelage color between 5 populations of Gerbillus campestris and difference in pelage color, mandibular foramina number, color of foot pad hair and other characters between 2 populations of Jaculus jaculus were noted and further investigation of the taxonomic status recommended. Zoogeographical analyses of the mammalian faunal elements in Tunisia and the whole area were made. Two groups of bats were recognized. Bat fauna that invaded Tunisia from the north, and one that invaded from the south. Land mammals were in three groups: Strictly Mediterranean zone, Not-strictly Mediterranean, and Saharan mammals. Species richness in quadrates 1 latitude X 1 longitude spanning Tunisia was discussed. Finally conclusions and recommendations for future mammalian studies in the area were suggested.
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| Subject
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Biological sciences
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Ecology
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Gerbillidae
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phylogenetic
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Zoology
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Zoology
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