Identification of effective parameters on distribution of Tatera indica Hardwicke, 1807 in arid and semi-arid habitats using Binary Logistic Regression method (Case study: Zabol region)

Indian Gerbil (Tatera indica Hardwicke، 1807) is from Muridae family and Gerbillinae subfamily. Habitat range of this species involves arid and semi -arid areas. The species has been listed in IUCN (2013) at the lowest level of concern (Lc). This study was conducted using logistic regression approach and all effective factors on habitat suitability of T. indica were identified in Sistan region. Field studies were conducted at five different sampling stations in Zabol during spring 2013. Seven environmental variables including the percentage of vegetation cover، soil، gravel cover (<0/2 mm diameter)، percentage of cover of Tamarix species (Haloxylon sp)، percentage of coverage of Desmatchia-Bipinata، cover of Salsola aucheri and distance from water resources in 60 plots of presence/absence were performed and analyzed using binary logistic regression method. Results showed that variables of soil cover، cover gravel and coverage percentage of Desmatchia-Bipinata and distance from water resources have important role (P< 0. 05) in relation to the distribution of T. indica in Sistan.