Spatial distribution pattern of mustelids in the eastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet plateau

Evolutionary theory predicts that the species of an evolutionarily
successful taxon would not overlap in spatial distribution. To test the
prediction, we document our research on the spatial associations of
mustelids, an evolutionarily successful group of Order Carnivore, using
infrared camera trap data on species distribution collected from the
national nature reserves of Liancheng, Wolong, Tangjiahe, and Heizhugou in
China in 2017-2021. Data showed seven mustelid species occurring in the
study area, including Arctonyx collaris, Mele leucurus, Martes
foina, Martes flavigula, Mustela altaica, Mustela nivalis, and Mustela
sibirica. Following Ricklefs’ definition of biological community, we
identified five networks of species associations. The mustelids occurred
in the networks. Species from the same genus, such as M. foina and M.
flavigula, stayed in different networks to avoid competition due to
similar feeding habits or habitat preferences. Species with different
feeding habits or habitat preferences either occurred in different
networks, such as M. altaica and M. flavigula, or coexist in the same
networks but avoided direct spatial associations, such as M. foina and A.
collaris. Asymmetrical associations were found between different genera,
such as M. foina and M. altaica; or between different subfamilies, such as
M. flavigula and A. collaris. These associations may be attributed to
interspecific killing or seed dispersal. However, these associations
accounted for only a small proportion and would not impact the species
diversity of Mustelidae. It is thus concluded that the prediction is
supported by our research findings and that spatial avoidance may be the
biogeographic strategy of maintaining the species diversity of the family.
We also found that the well protection of the mustelids may benefit to the
overall biodiversity conservation in Heizhugou, an NNR that has
experienced severe deforestation.