Gopherus polyphemus (Gopher Tortoise) adult mortality
September 1, 2021
Gopherus polyphemus has typically high adult survivorship, with some populations reaching a mean annual survivorship of 93.4% (Howell et al. 2019. J. Wildl. Manage. 84:56–65). Instances of adult mortality are not commonly reported outside of large mortality events, and most often result from disease, starvation, dehydration, or chronic stress (Gates et al. 2002. Florida Sci. 65:185–
197; Cozad et al. 2020. Front. Vet. Sci. 7:120). Adult G. polyphemus also have few natural predators, which include Canis familiaris (Domestic Dog), Canis latrans (Coyote), and Lynx rufus (Bobcat; Ashton and Ashton 2008. The Natural History and Management of the Gopher Tortoise—Gopherus polyphemus [Daudin]. Krieger Publishing Company, Malabar, Florida. 275 pp.).
Citation Information
Publication Year | 2021 |
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Title | Gopherus polyphemus (Gopher Tortoise) adult mortality |
Authors | Michael Palandri, Margaret M. Lamont |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Herpetological Review |
Index ID | 70224610 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Wetland and Aquatic Research Center |