Seasonal changes in network connectivity and consequences for pathogen transmission in a solitary carnivore.

ABSTRACT: Seasonal variation in habitat use and animal behavior can alter host contact patterns with potential consequences for pathogen transmission dynamics. The endangered Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi) has experienced significant pathogen-induced mortality and continues to be at risk of future epidemics. Prior research has found increased panther movement in Florida's dry versus wet seasons, which may affect panther population connectivity and seasonally increase potential pathogen transmission. Our objective was to determine if Florida panthers are more spatially connected in dry seasons relative to wet seasons, and test if identified connectivity differences resulted in divergent predicted epidemic dynamics. We leveraged extensive panther telemetry data to construct seasonal panther hom

SUBMITTER: Gilbertson MLJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10584909 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature