Biology of African mole-rats from mesic tropic areas (2008–2011)

African mole-rats are an example of adaptations to subterranean life unique because of variability of social systems. The family has been studied for more than 20 years, but most information referred to social species. Within social members, almost all the data on biology in natural habitats were obtained on those from areas with low rainfall in South Africa and Kenya. The main goal of
the project is to bring data on biology of bathyergids from mesic tropic areas. We will focus on autecology, activity, and dynamic of burrow systems. Taxonomic status, phylogeography, mating systems of solitary and social species will be determined. Laboratory tests will complement field findings in sensory biology and activity. Further experiments will test ecophysiology, communication and factors determining activity. Comparison with South African species is necessary for an understanding evolution of bathyergids, adaptations for life belowground, adaptive meaning of their sociality and phylogeography.