Demographic parameters of Micoureus demerarae (Didelphidae, Marsupialia) in contiguous mangrove and terra firme areas, in Bragancaa, Pari¡, Brazil

This study investigated some aspects of the population dynamics of Micoureus demerarae (Thomas, 1905), such as: density, recruitment, and survivorship in two contiguous ecosystems, mangal and terra firme at the Fazenda das Salinas in the northeast of the state of Pari¡. One transect in each system was used for fieldwork. Data collection was carried out from November 2002 to September 2003. The following population parameters were estimated: density, recruitment, and survivorship. The results defined an open population with an even distribution for individuals from mangal and a clumped one for individuals from terra firme, and the evident seasonality with higher proportion of males in the terra firme. The reproductive period was the most important parameter to the population fluctuation in the beginning of the dry season. The environmental impacts over the population dynamics parameters of M. demerarae seem to be determinant for the maintenance of these populations.