A cost-effective mesocosm framework for reptile research: Design, validation, and practical insights.

ABSTRACT: Mesocosms, outdoor replicated ecological experiments within a controlled environment, have become a valuable tool for investigating a broad range of ecological questions across various sub-disciplines. This study presents a medium-sized mesocosm system (MS) designed for individual-level responses to abiotic factors and basic intraspecific interactions in small ground-dwelling reptiles, offering a practical alternative to large-scale facilities for resource-limited settings. Unlike large-scale facilities that are ideal for meta-community dynamics but impractical due to high costs and complexity, this system targets research contexts with limited resources requiring replicated experimental units. To validate the MS design, 16 units were constructed using cost-effective, widely available mate

SUBMITTER: Simbula G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12654925 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature