Diversity and distribution of rodent and shrew species associated with variations in altitude on Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Abstract

A total of 750 rodents and shrews were trapped in several sites on Mount (Mt.) Kilimanjaro and in two lowland sites between October 2002 and August 2003. Species diversity variations with altitude and their distribution were established. Diversity of species varied with vegetation type, being highest in the forest and lowest in the lowland areas. The distribution patterns and species diversity of the rodents and shrews were also influenced by habitat complexity and heterogeneity. Species richness was higher in the forest compared to the other areas. The study generally shows that the Mt. Kilimanjaro has high rodent and shrew species diversity and richness.