Small mammal

Small mammals or micromammals are a subdivision of mammals based on their body mass and size. Different values have been used as the upper limit. The International Biological Programme has defined small mammals as species weighing up to 5 kg.[1][2][3] Alternatively, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) groups the orders of rodents, tree shrews and eulipotyphlans (insectovores) together under the term small mammals.[4]

The Etruscan shrew, an especially small mammal

A significant majority of mammal species falls into the category of small mammals.[1][2] They are found in a great range of habitats and climate zones.[3]

Characteristics

Many small mammals have a short livespan and high fertility rate, resulting in a comparatively high variability in genetic composition. Their size leads to a reduced energy need for movement, but a high energy requirement for maintaining body temperature. This results in a high rate of food intake, using a wide range food sources. Their small size, together with frequently nocturnal or crepuscular activity, provide some protection against predators.[3]

Research and conservation

The SSC Small Mammal Specialist Group (SMSG) of the IUCN "serves as the global authority on the world's small mammals" both with regard to research as well as conservation efforts.[5]

References
  1. Morand, Serge; Krasnov, Boris R.; Poulin, Robert; Degen, A. Allan (2006). "Micromammals and macroparasites: Who is who and how do they interact". In Morand, Serge; Krasnov, Boris R.; Poulin, Robert (eds.). Micromammals and Macroparasites: From Evolutionary Ecology to Management. Springer Science. pp. 4–5. ISBN 978-4-431-36024-7.
  2. Fleming, Theodore H. (1979). "Life-history strategies". In Stoddart, D. Michael (ed.). Ecology of small mammals. Chapman and Hall. p. 1. doi:10.1007/978-94-009-5772-5. ISBN 978-94-009-5774-9. S2CID 30468834.
  3. Merritt, Joseph F. (2010). The Biology of Small Mammals. Baltimore: The Johns Hopkins University Press. pp. 1–3. ISBN 978-0-8018-7950-0.
  4. "Small Mammals". Small Mammal Specialist Group (SMSG). Retrieved April 13, 2022.
  5. "Small Mammal". IUCN. 8 January 2019. Retrieved April 13, 2022.


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