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RESEARCH PRODUCT

Species Diversity and Distribution of Mammals in Riga

subject

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The aim of this study was to investigate the species diversity and distribution of mammals in the territory of Riga. Our specific aims were to create a zonal division of Riga, and to classify habitats in unbuilt areas of the city. Riga was divided into four zones according to historical, economic and geographical features. Criteria of habitat classification were as follows: the size of a territory, anthropogenic load, soil and vegetation types and age. Sixteen types of habitats were distinguished. In the period 1999–2002, 27 mammal species of six orders were registered in the investigated territory of Riga. The number of animals and the diversity of species increased towards the periphery of the city. The highest species diversity was found in the peripheral 3rd and 4th zones of the city. The greatest number of species and abundance of animals were characteristic of forest parks (16 species); the lowest abundance and species diversity was registered at the edges of highways and on the cemeteries (three sp...