Interrelations between different forms of group variability of craniometrical features in population of social vole Microtus socialis (Arvicolidae, Rodentia, Mammalia) in southern Ukraine

Abstract

The article addresses the interrelationship between different forms of group varia­bility of craniometrical features according to value of their contribution in the overall morphological disparity of individuals in the population Microtus socialis in southern Ukraine. It is shown that most of the variability of traits determined primarily the age animals and less sex, season, number and density of individuals in the population. Obtained results indicate that the age variability is the base for formation of all other forms of group variability. It is proved that the variability of craniometrical traits in young and subadult voles is determined primarily by size and density of individuals in population (cyclic variability). Second largest impact on the variability of craniometrical features includes season, third – sex whose influence on the variability of traits in young voles was statistically proven. In juvenile voles sex and season affect the variability of linear dimensions and proportions of the skull, while in subadult and adults – mostly in the proportions of the skull and almost no influence on the variability of its linear dimensions. Sexual variability of the craniometrical traits increases markedly with the age of voles.

Keywords

• Microtus socialis
• social vole
• craniometrical features
• group variabi­lity
• age variability
• morphological disparity