Quantifying the Effect of Invasive Rodents on Endemic Galápagos Land Snails
Faculty Mentor Information
Christine E. Parent
Abstract
The Galápagos Islands are home to an array of unique creatures. However, the Islands’ endemic wildlife is continuously threatened by the introduction of invasive species. In particular, invasive rodents are a large source of concern. For my research project, I assessed the magnitude and direction of selection that introduced rats are imposing on endemic Galápagos land snails on Floreana Island. In June, I collected the shells of rat-predated and non-rat-predated snails in order to measure their shell height, diameter, and thickness. If rats are a source of selection, I expect non-predated snails will have thicker and smaller shells, which should provide them with better protection against predation. Since field work has just been completed, further analysis is needed to quantify the amount of imposed selection. In addition, information about the impact of rat populations will be used to evaluate the success of invasive rodent eradication efforts and will provide much needed information to national park officials for prioritization of conservation measures in Galápagos.
Quantifying the Effect of Invasive Rodents on Endemic Galápagos Land Snails
The Galápagos Islands are home to an array of unique creatures. However, the Islands’ endemic wildlife is continuously threatened by the introduction of invasive species. In particular, invasive rodents are a large source of concern. For my research project, I assessed the magnitude and direction of selection that introduced rats are imposing on endemic Galápagos land snails on Floreana Island. In June, I collected the shells of rat-predated and non-rat-predated snails in order to measure their shell height, diameter, and thickness. If rats are a source of selection, I expect non-predated snails will have thicker and smaller shells, which should provide them with better protection against predation. Since field work has just been completed, further analysis is needed to quantify the amount of imposed selection. In addition, information about the impact of rat populations will be used to evaluate the success of invasive rodent eradication efforts and will provide much needed information to national park officials for prioritization of conservation measures in Galápagos.