The Current Status of Citellus fulvus Licht. in the Southern Regions of Uzbekistan today's status (using the example of Guzar district)

¹ National University of Uzbekistan, Faculty of Biology, Tashkent, 61010333, Uzbekistan
² Jizzakh State Pedagogical University, 4, Sharof Rashidov street, 130100, Jizzakh, Uzbekistan

^* Corresponding author: elmurodyangiboyev20@gmail.com

Abstract

The rodent fauna of southern Uzbekistan, particularly the species Citellus fulvus (yellow miter), displays significant adaptations to the agrocenoses and diverse biotopes of the region. This study, conducted from 2022 to 2023 in the Guzar district of the Kashkadarya region, aimed to investigate the population density, ecological characteristics, and geographical distribution of Citellus fulvus. Various methods were employed, including route tracking, morphometric measurements, and observations of colony distribution. Our findings revealed a notable reduction in natural habitats, resulting in a shift of Citellus fulvus colonies toward agrocenoses and semi-urban areas. Colony structures were observed to vary based on geographical features, with a maximum distance of 200-300 meters between colonies in some cases. Morphological characteristics of individuals, such as fur color and body size, also showed seasonal and age-related changes. The study highlights the need for further investigation into the species’ adaptation mechanisms, especially considering the increasing anthropogenic pressures and habitat loss in the region. These findings provide valuable insights into the population dynamics and ecological stability of Citellus fulvus, with implications for regional biodiversity conservation and pest management strategies.