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Gewählte Master / Diploma Thesis:

Saskia Luss (2011): Untersuchungen zur Nahrungsökologie des Alpenschneehuhns unter Verwendung unterschiedlicher Analysemethoden.
Master / Diploma Thesis - Institut für Wildbiologie und Jagdwirtschaft (IWJ), BOKU-Universität für Bodenkultur, pp 86. UB BOKU obvsg

Data Source: ZID Abstracts

Abstract:: This study deals with two different methods of faeces analysis - the feeding ecology of the Alpine Rock Ptarmigan (Lagopus muta helvetica). For that purpose, faeces originating from two different Austrian regions (Kärntner Nockberge, Wiener Hausberge) were analysed. Faeces from the Nockberge and a terrestrial vegetation map, which was created as part of a diploma thesis in 2004, are the basis of the anatomical analysis. By means of this method plant components contained in the Alpine Rock Ptarmigan's faeces are identified owing to characteristics like shape and distribution of epidermal cells, stomata and hairs. Comparing the estimated food availability (according tot he terrestrial vegetation map) with parts of the digested food (faeces analysis) the study determines to which degree this species can be considered as a food-opportunist whose diet composition is adapted to local conditions. However, the comparison did not reveal a direct relation between the terrestrial vegetation map and the faeces analysis. The second method that was applied is the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR). This method records the chemical composition of faeces and allows for a comparison of study areas (Nockberge, Schneeberg and Schneealpe) in order to make a trans-regional statement on the diet composition. By analysing the arrangement of clusters the heterogeneity of the study areas is investigated while the similarities of faeces are illustrated by using a dendrogram and spectra. Both between the regions and within the study areas a different diet composition could be determined. Apart from the suitability and optimization of both faeces analysis methods their challenges and potential was also analysed and discussed. In addition, statements on the food ecology of the Alpine Rock Ptarmigan can be derived.; Beurteilende(r): Bernhardt Karl Georg; 1.Mitwirkender: Nopp-Mayr Ursula; 2.Mitwirkender: Königshofer Helga