Application of protein nutrition in natural ecosystem management for European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) conservation

Abstract

The case of European wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) embodies the conservation paradox of the twenty-first century, as it is on the rise in introduced places and populations are in decline in its endemic locations. Recently, wild rabbits have been considered endangered in Mediterranean European countries, and European wild rabbit has been defined as a keystone species. The loss of keystone species is critical to ecosystem structure and functioning, and their reintroduction constitutes a critical point in the ecological restoration of degraded ecosystems. Some studies have related the influence of high food quality to wild rabbit density, demonstrating in some areas that an increase in food availability (protein) is a good management technique. In this work, we review the effects of ecosystem management (using native plants and applying protein as a limiting factor) as a tool to increase the density of this keystone species and, in turn, the resilience of the Mediterranean ecosystem. Knowledge of the nutritional requirements and evaluation of the plants that conform rabbit diet are necessary. We summarise the ecosystem management and protein requirements of the animals. In addition, we compile the nutritional assessments of the main plants that make up the wild rabbit’s diet, aiming to detect the best candidate plants. In conclusion, we propose the following species for further study and consideration in future conservation programmes: Malva hispanica, Cistus ladanifer, Dactylis glomerata, Cynosurus echinatus, Trifolium subterraneum and Lupinus spp.