A microhistological technique for analysis of food habits of mycophagous rodents.

Patrick W. McIntire; Andrew B. Carey

doi:10.2737/PNW-RP-404

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A microhistological technique for analysis of food habits of mycophagous rodents.

Informally Refereed

Authors:

Patrick W. McIntire, Andrew B. Carey

Year:

1989

Type:

Research Paper

Station:

Pacific Northwest Research Station

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.2737/PNW-RP-404

Source:

Res. Pap. PNW-RP-404. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 16 p

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Abstract

We present a technique, based on microhistological analysis of fecal pellets, for quantifying the diets of forest rodents. This technique provides for the simultaneous recording of fungal spores and vascular plant material. Fecal samples should be freeze dried, weighed, and rehydrated with distilled water. We recommend a minimum sampling intensity of 50 fields of view for each of three slides per sample. Absolute and relative percentage of frequencies per sample can then be calculated.

Keywords

Diets, fecal analysis, food habits, Glaucomys sabrinus, mycophagy, rodents, Tamias townsendii

Citation

McIntire, Patrick W.; Carey, Andrew B. 1989. A microhistological technique for analysis of food habits of mycophagous rodents. Res. Pap. PNW-RP-404. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 16 p