The index of the hearts squad Carnivora, as an indicator of predator ecology

Abstract

The article presents the results of calculating the heart index of representatives of the order of carnivores, as one of the main morphophysiological indicators of predator activity. Based on the results of the study, the criteria for specific environmental characteristics of predators used for food production and determining the degree of load on the body were determined. To determine these indicators in some representatives of predatory animals obtained in the Amur region weight measurements of the hearts of sexually Mature individuals were performed: Martes zibellina, Meles leucurus, Canis lupus, Lynx lynx, Vulpes vulpes. Weight indicators of the index were carried out by measuring the ratio of the total mass of the organ to the body weight of the animal (organ mass x 100/ total mass of the animal =%). Conditionally dividing the studied predatory species into: small, medium and large, we determined: active predators intensively tracking their prey and leading high physical activity. Specialized predators that get food by sneaking up and chasing for short distances, not able to run for a long time. Predator-gatherers. In which this feature was an adaptive reaction in the course of evolution for the survival of the species in adverse conditions, food competition and settlement of new territories.