The Carrizo Plain Ecosystem Project (CPEP) is a long-term study built around the endangered giant kangaroo rat (Dipodomys ingens) but designed to understand relationships among the many species of plants and wildlife that inhabit the Carrizo ecosystem. We use replicated cattle and rodent exclosures to evaluate the role of grazing as a management tool and to determine how kangaroo rats affect native grassland restoration. Quantifying species interactions in this system will help managers predict how their decisions may affect individual species and whole food webs.
Group member: Rachel Endicott
Photo credits: Rachel Endicott, Danielle Dillard
See more on The Carrizo Plain Ecosystem Project
