bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wildlife as Insurance against Rainfall Fluctuations in a Semi-Arid Savanna Setting of Southeastern Zimbabwe
Authors: Poshiwa X. , Groeneveld R.A. , Heitkönig I. M.A. , Prins H.H.T. , van Ierland E. C.
Published: October 2016

This paper presents modeling approaches for wildlife conservation in a semi-arid savanna setting where there are frequent occurrences of drought. The model was used to test the extent to which wildlife income offers opportunities to reduce fluctuations in income as a result of variations in annual rainfall. For the application of the model the wildlife and agro-pastoral systems of southeastern Zimbabwe were simulated. Results show that wildlife income has the potential to compensate for some of the losses in expected income from livestock during droughts. However, wildlife income becomes second best to irrigated agriculture in stabilizing income in areas that show highly fluctuating rainfall. Possible reasons for this include high costs of exploiting the wildlife resource, and the small fraction of wildlife revenues received by households and communities. In order to search for sustainable solutions in areas such as the southeastern low veld of Zimbabwe, it is also important to be aware that the current human population and livestock densities are far above current sustainable levels. Our results therefore suggest that current and future efforts to conserve biodiversity are doomed to fail if there are no efforts made to decongest areas surrounding parks of high densities of human and herbivore populations, and to let local households earn more revenues from wildlife.
Preliminary Observations on the Behavior and Ecology of the Peruvian Night Monkey (Aotus Miconax: Primates) in a Remnant Cloud Forest Patch, North Eastern Peru
Authors: Shanee Sam , Allgas Nestor , Shanee Noga
Published: October 2016

The Peruvian night monkey ( Aotus miconax) is endemic to the eastern slopes of the Andes in northern Peru. We present preliminary behavioral data on A. miconax collected during 12 months of surveys on a single group living in a 1.4 ha forest fragment near the Centro Poblado La Esperanza, Amazonas Department. Follows were conducted for five nights each month around full moon. The group used 1.23 ha as their home range. Night ranges were between 0.16 and 0.63 ha. Activity budgets were 32 % feeding, 53 % travelling and 13 % resting. Average night path length was 823 m and average travel speed was 117 m/h. The study group has one of the smallest home ranges recorded for a night monkey group, probably the result of its isolated habitat. These results represent the first behavioral data on this species but results are limited by small sample sizes. A. miconax remains one of the least studied of all primates and is threatened by continued expansion of human populations and hunting.
Superovulation, in vivo Embryo Recovery and Cryopreservation for Aoudad (Ammotragus Lervia) Females Using Osmotic Pumps and Vitrification: A Preliminary Experience and its Implications for Conservation
Authors: López-Saucedo Janet , Ramón-Ugalde Julio Porfirio , de Barroso-Padilla José Jesús , Gutiérrez-Gutiérrez Antonio Martin , Fierro Reyna , Piña-Aguilar Raul Eduardo
Published: October 2016

The aoudad (Ammotragus lervia) is a wild ruminant considered the living ancestor of domestic sheep and goats. The original distribution of aoudads includes several countries in the North of Africa, but it has been introduced, for trophy-hunting purposes, into other countries (USA, Mexico and Spain). The species was declared vulnerable in the 2012 IUCN's Red List and is also included in the CITES II Appendix. Surprisingly, little is known about its conservation status or the reproductive biology of the natural populations. There are some reports of the application of basic assisted-reproduction techniques in captive aoudads. In this preliminary study, we explored the feasibility of implementing assisted reproduction procedures in captive aoudad females using non-traditional techniques for in vivo embryo production. This approach was used to obtain the best results using the minimum possible number of animals. Three aoudad females were synchronized using a domestic sheep protocol and subcutaneous osmotic pumps for the delivery of follicle-stimulating hormone. A mini-surgical approach combined with laparoscopy was performed to obtain in vivo-produced embryos. All females had an ovulatory response of more than three corporea lutea, but only five good quality morulae were obtained from one female. Those were cryopreserved by vitrification using a Cryotop®. In conclusion, our approach was successful in obtaining in vivo embryos using a limited number of females. Further studies are necessary to optimize the fertilization rate and clarify the effect of our protocol on embryo implantation and the production of offspring.
Assessing Sampling Biases in Logging Impact Studies in Tropical Forests
Authors: Laufer Juliana , Michalski Fernanda , Peres Carlos A.
Published: October 2016

The ecological responses of tropical forest wildlife to selective timber extraction have received considerable attention in the last few decades, yet there is little consensus among the large number of studies about the most appropriate sampling design. Here, we reviewed 26 years of tropical forest logging literature to evaluate the relationship between sampling design and the quality of information reported, which varied greatly among 75 studies. Most studies (88%) failed to include a pre-logging baseline condition in the sampling design, and the temporal scale of post-logging studies was generally inadequate. Studies also usually failed to report key information on study areas; only half of the articles reported some information on the spatial scale of the study, and only one-third presented some quantitative metric to describe forest habitat structure. Additionally, most studies (64%) failed to report the type of forest management and almost half (45%) did not describe the intensity of timber harvest in the logged areas. These sampling and reporting biases in logging studies hugely undermine the comparability among studies. We conclude with some general guidelines to maximize comparability among studies, and to enhance the potential usefulness of future logging studies for wildlife conservation strategies in tropical forest regions.
Habitat and Human Factors Associated with White-Tailed Deer Density in the Tropical Dry Forest of Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve, Mexico
Authors: Ramos-Robles Michelle , Gallina Sonia , Mandujano Salvador
Published: October 2016

The main objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between population densities of the white-tailed deer Odocoileus virginianus and certain habitat and human characteristics in the tropical dry forest of the Tehuacan-Cuicatlan Biosph ere Reserve (TCBR), Mexico. To estimate population density and characterize the habitat, we established 32 strip transects (500 × 2 m) at four different locations in the TCBR from May to June during the dry season of 2010. Principal component analyses were used to order the 32 transects using habitat/human impact variables and tree species composition. Estimated average density was 1.7 deer/km2, ranging from 0.1 to 2.9 deer/km2. The variables associated with white-tailed deer density were: basal area, distance to roads, distance to the area with largest human population, slope, aspect and presence of cattle; the principal plant species were Zapotillo ( Lantana camara), Chintoborrego ( Vallesia glabra), Nanche ( Bunchosia biocellata), Cuachalalate ( Amphipterigyum adstringens) and Cuajiote Amarillo ( Bursera aptera). Compared to other tropical dry forests, estimated white-tailed deer densities in the TCBR were lower. We discuss the possible effect of these variables on deer density and suggest management actions.
Distribution and Abundance of Lions in Northwest Tete Province, Mozambique
Authors: Jacobson Andrew P. , Cattau Megan E. , Riggio Jason S. , Petracca Lisanne S. , Fedak Derek A.
Published: October 2016

The continued existence of large carnivores such as the lion ( Panthera leo Linnaeus, 1758) outside of protected areas is uncertain. Such populations are the least studied and the most rapidly declining. Mozambique contains roughly 8% of Africa's lions, nearly half of which persist outside of protected areas. We estimated the distribution and abundance of lions in an unprotected section of northwest Tete Province and identified potential threats to the local persistence of lion populations. Structured interviews of local people indicated lion presence and human-lion conflict. We used interview results and anthropogenic land uses defined via Google Earth to delineate lion range digitally. We estimated population size using two methods of density estimation. We estimate that 185 lions inhabit roughly two thirds of the study area, including a likely transfrontier population with Zambia. Lion populations are resident and possibly recovering. Proper management of limiting factors, such as human-wildlife conflict, may stimulate and sustain lion population growth in the study area.
Botswanan Palm Basketry among the Wounaan of Western Colombia: Lessons from an Intercontinental Technology Transfer
Authors: Bernal Rodrigo , Galeano Gloria , García Néstor , Palacios Aida
Published: October 2016

Traditional palm basketry of the Ba Yei and HaMbukushu people of the Okavango delta region in Botswana was introduced in the 1970s by a missionary to the Wounaan aborigines of western Colombia, who had a related weaving technique. The African technique was quickly assimilated by the Wounaan and enriched with shapes and decoration based on their own cultural patterns. The Chocoan palm Astrocaryum standleyanum, which the Wounaan used in their traditional baskets, replaced the African Hyphaene petersiana used in Botswana. The high quality of the new basketry led to a rapid success and turned Wounaan Astrocaryum baskets into an icon among Colombian handicrafts. Market pressure led to a severe depletion of the fiber-producing palm near Indian villages in the late twentieth century, as palms were felled by the hundreds to harvest the spear leaves. Educational campaigns and the introduction of an appropriate harvest tool have subsequently reduced the impact of leaf harvest, and A. standleyanum is now protected by the Wounaan. This case pinpoints the importance of a careful resource management assessment before introducing new market pressures on a traditional plant product. It is also a good example of positive results from a sustained campaign for appropriate resource management.
The Mangrove Forest at the Bucatu Lagoon, Northeast Brazil: Structural Characterization and Anthropic Impacts
Authors: Alves Rômulo Romeu Nóbrega , Sassi Roberto , Santana Gindomar Gomes
Published: October 2016

We investigated the Bucatú microbasin in order to characterize the structure and composition of its surrounding mangrove area by recording the main anthropic interferences on the vegetation. This study was performed along 10 plots (1000 m2 in total), perpendicular to the estuarine canal. Deposition and accumulation of sediments on the plants root system were evaluated using auger holes and photographs. Four plant species, Laguncularia racemosa (L.) Gaertn. (White Mangrove), Rhizophora mangle L. (Red Mangrove), Conocarpus erectus L.(Silver-leaved Buttonwood), and Annona glabra L. (Pond-apple) were recorded. The structural parameters obtained were low, and a great number of dead plants were observe d, most of them of the species L. racemosa. Sediment deposition rates of 10-15 cm were recorded. Silting in the mangrove area and alterations of water flow in the drainage basin of the Bucatu River were the main anthropic effects observed, exerting a high negative impact on the mangrove ecosystem we investigated.
Strobilus and Seed Production of Dioon Edule (Zamiaceae) in a Population with low Seedling Density in San Luis Potosí, Mexico
Authors: Mora Raymundo , Yáñez-Espinosa Laura , Flores Joel , Nava-Zárate Nadya
Published: October 2016

We describe strobilus and seed development in a Dioon edule (chamal, palma, dameu') population characterized by low seedling and high adult tree density, in order to improve conservation decisions for this endangered cycad species. Female strobili required 16-17 months and male 4-5 months to develop. During this period 80% female and 100% male strobili were not damaged by herbivores. The method of cone analysis used to evaluate seed production of pines was modified for D. edule, providing actual yield of individual strobili compared to potential seed yield, explaining productivity in terms of seed efficiency, and identifying and quantifying the types of seed failures. Larger strobili have higher seed potential calculated as the number of seeds potentially produced in the fertile megasporophylls of each strobilus, total seeds actually produced, and seeds with an embryo (filled). Calculated average seed potential per strobilus was of 230.4 seeds. Using the X-ray technique, average seed traits were 100.2 full, 1.8 insect damaged, and 0.6 malformed. Seed efficiency (number of filled seeds as a percentage of the seed potential of each strobilus) of 42.5% indicated that major seed loss was attributable to abortive ovules and seeds, possibly due to ineffective pollination. Seedling survival in greenhouse conditions was 100% after one year. Low seed production affects the population structure and hinders its conservation.
Top-Down and Bottom-up Control of Large Herbivore Populations: A Review of Natural and Human-Induced Influences
Authors: Gandiwa Edson
Published: October 2016

The question whether animal populations are top-down and/or bottom-up controlled has motivated a thriving body of research over the past five decades. In this review I address two questions: 1) how do top-down and bottom-up controls influence large herbivore populations? 2) How do human activities and control systems influence the top-down and bottom-up processes that affect large herbivore population dynamics? Previous studies suggest that the relative influence of top-down vs. bottom-up control varies among ecosystems at the global level, with abrupt shifts in control possible in arid and semi-arid regions during years with large differences in rainfall. Humans as super-predators exert top-down control on large wild herbivore abundances through hunting. However, through fires and livestock grazing, humans also exert bottom-up controls on large wild herbivore abundances through altering resource availability, which influences secondary productivity. This review suggests a need for further research, especially on the human-induced top-down and bottom-up control of animal populations in different terrestrial ecosystems.
Large- and Medium-Sized Mammal Survey Using Camera Traps in the Sikre River in the Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve, Honduras
Authors: Gonthier David J. , Castañeda Franklin E.
Published: October 2016

Large mammals are elusive, often nocturnal, and therefore difficult to study. In many parks, reserves, agriculture lands, and other human-dominated landscapes, mammalian abundance is unknown despite their importance to ecosystems. The Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve of eastern Honduras has been the site of much research, but many rivers within the reserve have not been surveyed for mammalian diversity. In this study we used camera traps to survey an area of 70 km2 along the Sikre River for mammals in both broad-leaf forest and pine savanna. 2,040 trap-nights yielded 116 captures in total. Fourteen mammal, three bird, and one reptile species were photographed in the broad-leaf forest, while none of the four camera stations in the pine savanna captured animals on film. The tapir ( Tapirus bairdii) was the most frequently captured species. We also captured four photographs of at least two individuals of the giant anteater ( Myrmecophaga tridactyla), a species considered the most threatened mammal in Central America. Of the felids, Puma concolor and Leopardus pardalis were each captured on five photographs each, while Panthera onca was only captured once during a preliminary pilot survey in 2007. The results suggest the study site hosts a species richness of large- and medium-sized mammals that is comparable to other sites in Central and South America.
Pollination of Myristica and Other Nutmegs in Natural Populations
Authors: Sharma Manju V. , Armstrong Joseph E.
Published: October 2016

Field studies of several species of Myristica (Myristicaceae) have produced a more detailed understanding of the pollination and reproduction of nutmeg, which had long been wanting. Nutmegs are dioecious tropical forest trees within the order Magnoliales. Nutmegs conform to the general pattern of dioecious tropical trees; they have small, inconspicuous flowers with a pollen reward system, and interact with a guild of small, generalist insects, predominately beetles, thrips and flies. Pollen is the only obvious reward, so pollination operates by deception and foraging errors. Fluctuations in floral displays may encourage foraging errors, and beetles have been found to be sensitive and responsive to such changes in floral displays. Natural populations of nutmegs are generally male-biased, although irregular flowering can shift sex ratios from season to season. Intersexual differences in microhabitat preference were found in some, but not all nutmeg species studied. Compared to their importance and prevalence in tropical forests, the nutmeg family remains both under-studied and difficult to study. Future work should focus on aspects of nutmeg reproduction such as pollen flow and fruiting success (or seed set) that may offer conservation insights.
Biodiversity Persistence in Highly Human-Modified Tropical Landscapes Depends on Ecological Restoration
Authors: Brancalion Pedro H. S. , Melo Felipe P.L. , Tabarelli Marcelo , Rodrigues Ricardo R.
Published: October 2016

In human-modified tropical landscapes, biodiversity is threatened by a myriad of forces, including habitat loss and fragmentation, land degradation, overexploitation of forest resources, and biological invasions. Ecological restoration offers a promising way to enhance biodiversity persistence and the delivery of ecosystem services by: 1) establishing structural elements in the landscape to enhance connectivity, 2) providing additional forest cover, 3) restoring degraded forest remnants through protection from human-mediated disturbances and reestablishment of successional trajectory, and 4) supporting sustainable socio-economic development in marginalized rural communities, where the lack of job opportunities drives deforestation, forest degradation, and overexploitation. Due to biodiversity requirements, however, this potential will only be realized if restoration is carried out on very large spatial scales. Although conservation biologists have historically doubted the potential of ecological restoration to reverse ecosystem degradation and mitigate species loss, we argue that conservation policies and programs should include restoration among the strategies adopted to mitigate extinction debts and support the creation of biodiversity friendly-landscapes. Otherwise, we will likely continue to describe a slow and irreversible loss of our biological heritage in isolated protected areas in human-modified tropical landscapes.
A Preliminary Study on the Impact of Changing Shifting Cultivation Practices on Dry Season Forage for Asian Elephants in Sri Lanka
Authors: Pastorini Jennifer , Janaka H. K. , Nishantha H. G. , Prasad Tharaka , Leimgruber Peter , Fernando Prithiviraj
Published: October 2016

Shifting cultivation, in which fields are traditionally cultivated for two or three consecutive years and left fallow for four to five years, is an ancient practice still prevalent in the dry zone of Sri Lanka. Traditionally, shifting agriculture is rain dependent and is limited to the wet season. However, traditional patterns are now changing due to population pressures. We assessed the use of shifting agriculture areas by Asian elephants ( Elephas maximus) and the availability of fodder in active fields during the dry season, to evaluate the impact of changing cultivation practices on elephants. We radio-tracked a juvenile and an adult male, representative of the two social groupings of herds and adult males respectively, based on the sexually dimorphic social structure of elephants. Although the small sample size precluded definitive conclusions, the tracking data were consistent with extensive elephant use of shifting cultivation areas during the dry season. We conducted line transects and plots in fields cultivated continuously for 1-20 years, assessing the growth of grasses and four browse species selected as indicators of elephant food. Grass was plentiful in early dry season, representing an important but transient food source. Browse density and volume remained constant through the dry season. Browse density but not volume decreased with increasing number of consecutive years of cultivation. We conclude that shifting agriculture fields under active cultivation are a significant dry season food source for elephants. This benefit is likely to decrease with additional years of continued cultivation and/or longer cultivation seasons.
Integrating Occupancy Modeling and Camera-Trap Data to Estimate Medium and Large Mammal Detection and Richness in a Central American Biological Corridor
Authors: Cove Michael V. , Spínola R. Manuel , Jackson Victoria L. , Sàenz Joel C. , Chassot Olivier
Published: October 2016

Noninvasive camera-traps are commonly used to survey mammal communities in the Neotropics. This study used camera-traps to survey medium and large mammal diversity in the San Juan – La Selva Biological Corridor, Costa Rica. The connectivity of the corridor is affected by the spread of large-scale agriculture, cattle ranching, and a growing human presence. An occupancy modeling approach was used to estimate corridor species richness and species-specific detection probabilities in 16 forested sites within four different matrix-use categories: eco-lodge reserves, tree plantations/general reforestation, cattle ranches, and pineapple/agricultural plantations. Rarity had a highly negative effect (β = −1.96 ± 0.65 SE) on the ability to detect species presence. Corridor richness was estimated at 20.4 ± 0.66 species and was lower than that observed in protected areas in the Neotropics. Forest cover was significantly less at pineapple plantations than other land-use matrices. Richness estimates for different land-use matrices were highly variable with no significant differences; however, pineapple plantations exhibited the highest observed richness. Given the limited forest cover at those sites, we believe that this reflects the concentrated occurrence of medium and large mammals in small forest patches, particularly because the majority of pineapple plantation communities were generalist mesopredators. Fragmentation and connectivity will need to be addressed with reforestation and limitations on pineapple production for the region to function as an effective corridor. Occupancy modeling has only recently been applied to camera-trap data and our results suggest that this approach provides robust richness and detection probability estimates and should be further explored.
Significance of Remnant Cloud Forest Fragments as Reservoirs of Tree and Epiphytic Bromeliad Diversity
Authors: Toledo-Aceves Tarin , García-Franco José G. , Williams-Linera Guadalupe , MacMillan Keith , Gallardo-Hernández Claudia
Published: October 2016

Tropical Montane Cloud Forests (TMCF) support exceptional concentrations of biodiversity but are severely threatened by deforestation. In Mexico, 60% of TMCF tree species has been reported as threatened, and the epiphytic plants characteristic of these forests are particularly vulnerable to disturbance and climate change. We evaluated the role of remnant TMCF fragments as reservoirs of tree and epiphytic bromeliad biodiversity in southeastern Mexico. In four cloud forest fragments of varying size (1.2, 4.1, 6.6 and 9.8 ha), we recorded all trees ≥ 10 cm dbh in six 20 × 10 m plots and sampled eight trees at each site to measure bromeliad diversity. The assessment revealed that even very small forest fragments can host significant tree and epiphytic bromeliad diversity. In total, 45 tree and 18 bromeliad species were recorded among all the sites. These forest fragments are an important reservoir of both endemic tree species (seven species) and those with conservation status (nine tree species and one bromeliad species). Important variation in tree and bromeliad composition was found among fragments. This high heterogeneity among forest sites means that maintenance of even small fragments can play a strategic role in the conservation of biodiversity in the severely transformed landscape of the region. Such maintenance merits full consideration in the design of forest management policies and TMCF restoration initiatives.
A Comparative Study on Bushmeat Consumption Patterns in ten Tribes in Tanzania
Authors: Ceppi Silvia Laura , Nielsen Martin Reinhardt
Published: October 2016

Bushmeat hunting is an important driver of wildlife depletion in Tanzania, but national-wide estimates of its consumption are lacking. We compare bushmeat consumption frequencies and determinants in ten tribes in different ecoregions in Tanzania, four of these within biodiversity hotspots of global conservation importance. Bushmeat consumption is examined in terms of ethnicity, selected indicators of wealth, and distance to and protection level of nearest protected area. Forty six percent of the respondents (n=300) belonging to nine of the ten tribes reported consuming bushmeat during the past 12 months, and 14% admitted that at least one household member hunted illegally. Significant differences in bushmeat consumption frequencies and species consumed were observed among ethnic groups. Regression revealed that the presence of a hunter in the household increased significantly the prevalence of bushmeat consumption, while distance to and protection level of nearest protected area had the most significant negative effect. Anti-poaching patrols are an effective deterrent to illegal bushmeat consumption, whilst access to domestic animal protein and other selected indicators of wealth do not reduce bushmeat consumption. The results emphasise the importance of strengthening anti-poaching services and the integration of cultural differences in preference for bushmeat into policies aimed at reducing bushmeat consumption and conserving wildlife.
Effects of Hunting and Fragmentation on Terrestrial Mammals in the Chiquitano Forests of Bolivia
Authors: Kosydar Andrew J. , Rumiz Damián I. , Conquest Loveday L. , Tewksbury Joshua J.
Published: October 2016

In recently fragmented landscapes, hunting pressure increases because hunters can access previously remote habitats. Yet fewer than 0.5% of fragmentation studies with mammals have also assessed the impacts of hunting. Herein, by means of camera-traps and track-plots, we analyzed the impact of hunting and forest fragmentation on species richness and relative abundances of twelve species of large and medium-sized mammals. With both methods we found fewer species in hunted sites than in control sites, but the effect was inconsistent in fragmented habitats with hunting. Hunting negatively affected the indices of abundance for five of the 12 species and never had a positive effect. Contrary to the hypothesis that the combination of fragmentation and hunting would lead to the largest decrease in abundance, we found that the addition of fragmentation in hunted landscapes negatively affected only two species (red brocket deer [ Mazama americana] and margay cat [ Leopardus wiedii]) and positively affected three smaller species (crab-eating foxes [ Cerdocyon thous], coatis [ Nasua nasua], and agoutis [ Dasyprocta spp.]). We also found a significant relationship between body mass and the effects of fragmentation (smaller species positively affected), but no relationship between body mass and the effect of hunting. Had we only compared results from the control with fragmented sites, we would have found a negative effect of fragmentation on five species abundance indices, a negative effect on species richness, and a positive effect on three species abundance indices. These results indicate that a failure to explicitly incorporate the effects of hunting into the design of fragmentation experiments can lead to widely different conclusions.
Environmental Perceptions and Resource use in Rural Communities of the Peruvian Amazon (Iquitos and Vicinity, Maynas Province)
Authors: Swierk Lindsey , Madigosky Stephen R.
Published: October 2016

Individuals living in rural communities in tropical forests rely heavily on subsistence extraction of resources, and usually have strong ties to their local environment. In the Peruvian Amazon, patterns of resource extraction are of particular interest because the potential for human population growth is high, and international efforts to conserve biodiversity in this region are widespread. A survey was conducted to examine how residents of rural communities surrounding Iquitos, Peru use their local environment to procure household items (four food types, building materials, and firewood) with respect to age, gender, and level of education. Local perceptions of the environment and environmental resources were also documented. A second independent survey examined subsistence fishing practices in this region, with particular focus given to perceptions of fishery abundance and future stability. A follow-up market survey was subsequently undertaken in Iquitos to determine how fishing practices may influence the sustainability of the fishery. Results reveal that rural communities in the Iquitos region rely heavily on the local environment for their household needs, and the local environment is highly valued by residents of rural communities. Both governmental and self-regulation of natural resource use are generally viewed favorably. Although residents have mixed perceptions regarding what constitutes over-use of resources, rural community members strongly desire to implement sustainable practices to ensure that natural products will continue to be available in the future. Additionally, these results suggest that the fishery surrounding Iquitos may be experiencing overharvesting pressures that are reducing numbers and size cohorts of desirable fish species.
Carnivore and Herbivore Densities in the Immediate Aftermath of Ethno-Political Conflict: The Case of Manas National Park, India
Authors: Goswami Rajkamal , Ganesh T.
Published: October 2016

Many biodiversity hotspots experience high political volatility and armed conflicts. But their impacts on wildlife conservation are poorly understood. In this study we analyze the influence of fifteen years of armed conflict and subsequent peacetime interventions on wildlife populations in Manas National Park, India. Camera trapping and line-transect surveys were carried out to estimate the densities of carnivores and herbivores respectively. Using relative abundance index, the estimated densities of the three large felids were: tiger, Panthera tigris (1.86 animals/100 km2), leopard, Panthera pardus (1.68 animals/100 km2), clouded leopard, Neofelis nebulosa (0.58 animals/100 km2). Among the ungulates, which are the principal prey species of tigers, wild-buffalo, Bubalus arnee was most abundant (22.88± S.E. 11.63 animals/km2). The combined density of the ungulate species was 42.02 animals/km2. Our data and observations from the field indicate that except for the rhino, Rhinoceros unicornis, most wildlife species survived the conflict. Relationships between ungulate and tiger abundances indicate that Manas can support more tigers than are currently present. The ongoing restoration efforts seem to have an uplifting effect on the overall profile of the park, particularly on tourism and in engaging local communities. Our baseline estimates for the large cats and their prey species will enable future evaluation of the recovery process with respect to change in species abundance over time.
A Population of Blue-Winged Macaw Primolius Maracana in Northeastern Brazil: Recommendations for a Local Conservation Action Plan
Authors: Pichorim Mauro , Câmara Thanyria Pollyneide França , de Oliveira-Júnior Tonny Marques , de Oliveira Damião Valdenor , Nascimento Érica Patrícia Galvão do , Mobley Jason Alan
Published: October 2016

The Blue-winged Macaw ( Primolius maracana) is currently classified as near threatened, and studies have shown a decrease in its population size in the southern and northeastern limits of its distribution over the last 50 years. In this study we assess the current status of a local population in Northeastern Brazil and propose a conservation action plan. We visited 56 l ocalities in the Serra de Santana mountain range to search for direct and indirect evidence of the species' presence or absence. We recorded P. maracana at 27 locations, restricted to two main areas (Pimenteira-Rio Fundo and Serra da Arara-Serra de São João). There was a positive correlation between the a ge of reported sightings a nd flock size (rs = 0.3; p = 0.02), suggesting a decreasing population size over the last several decades. P. maracana breeds during the rainy season (December-May) in this region, and nests were recorded in mulungus, cumarus and craibeiras trees. Based on soil use criteria, plant cover, fauna use, and indicator species, hillside habitats have been less impacted than flat areas in the upper highlands (mean conservation for high flat area = 5.8 ± 2.0 and for hill side areas = 8.0 ± 2.1; t 53 = 3.96, p < 0.01). The data indicate that Pimenteira-Rio Fundo and Serra da Arara-Serra de São João are priority areas for local conservation actions and that P. maracana is adapted to the hyper-xerophilous caatinga, and not restricted to the peripheral formations of this environment, as previously suggested. We propose measures to control the population decline, establish conservation units, implement tourism programs, adopt responsible environmental practices, and increase public awareness and mobilization. Such actions must be implemented by local government and civil society entities, university researchers, and landowners in order to be effective.
Model Thresholds are More Important than Presence Location Type: Understanding the Distribution of Lowland tapir (Tapirus Terrestris) in a Continuous Atlantic Forest of Southeast Brazil
Authors: Norris Darren
Published: October 2016

Modeling the distribution of rare and endangered species is challenging, and there is substantial debate regarding what species distribution models (SDMs) actually represent. Here I investigated whether locations of different lowland tapir signs (feces, trails and tracks) generated different distributions of suitable habitat using a presence-only species distribution modeling technique. Comparison of the equivalence and overlap of the predicted distributions showed no significant differences between the different signs. The contribution of the 11 variables used to build the distribution models was also similar between signs. Although predictions from different signs were similar, the use of different threshold selection methods generated substantially different suitable areas and omission errors. These results highlight the importance of a fundamental understanding of species natural history to determine not only appropriate model parameters, but also the biological relevance of SDMs. My findings also support the need for healthy skepticism regarding what is represented by presence-only species distributions. To help address this skepticism I conclude by providing guidelines for generating reliable local-scale distribution models.
Primer Design for Non-Invasive Genetic Identification of West African Threatened Primates
Authors: Bi Sery Gonedelé , Sokouri Didier P. , Alla-N'Nan Oulo , Tiékoura Kouakou , Lolo Marcel , Gnangbé Félix
Published: October 2016

The Guinean Forests are renowned for their primate diversity, with nearly 30 distinct species. These forests have been identified as some of Africa's most critical primate conservation areas. However, intensive poaching pressure and habitat degradation cause severe threats to these species. The remaining primate populations have low population densities, have secretive habitats, and are wary of humans. This can make field studies and direct observation difficult. To develop a reliable, sensitive and simple molecular identification method using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), we sequenced the mitochondrial D-loop Hypervariable 1 region (HVR1) of Diana monkey ( Cercopithecus diana) and Campbell monkey ( Cercopithecus campbelli). From these sequences and their orthologs within Eastern black-and-white colobus ( Colobus guereza) obtained from GenBank, we designed species-specific primers to amplify fragments of the mitochondrial D-loop HVR1 gene from faecal samples. These primers allow us to differentiate between Diana monkey ( C. diana), Campbell monkey ( C. campbelli), lesser spot-nosed monkey ( Cercopithecus petaurista), Red colobus ( Piliocolobus badius), Olive colobus ( Procolobus verus), King colobus ( C. polykomos), and Geoffroy's black-and-white colobus ( C. vellerosus), demonstrating their potential for the identification of West African threatened primates.
Intentional Snake Road-Kill: A Case Study using Fake Snakes on a Brazilian Road
Authors: Secco Helio , Ratton Pedro , Castro Erika , da Lucas Priscila Silva , Bager Alex
Published: October 2016

Records of snakes are common in fauna road-kill monitoring studies in different Brazilian regions. To determine the intentionality of snake road-killing on a Brazilian road, the following hypotheses were tested: (1) more fake snakes are intentionally killed on the road than objects not similar to snakes; (2) the time elapsed until the first intentional fake snake road-kill is less than that for dissimilar objects; (3) the proportion of intentional collisions with fake snakes does not depend on the type of vehicle; (4) objects positioned in the center of the road are more frequently road-killed than those positioned on the roadside; (5) variation in the number of intentional road-kills is linked to variation of vehicular traffic. Fake snakes and PET bottles were placed in different positions on the MG-010 road (Minas Gerais State), and monitored for 96 hours by cameras that recorded the movement of vehicles on the lane. The numbers of intentional snake road-kills and control objects presented no differences, and the time elapsed until the first intentional road-kills was also similar. Cars and trucks are the vehicle categories with highest incidence of collisions. Objects were struck more often when positioned in the center of the road. This study proves that intentional road-killing occurs and that any small object on the road is subject to being struck by a moving vehicle. This behavior by some drivers on Brazilian roads may pose a threat to the conservation of species that venture onto these roads.
Rediscovery of the Critically Endangered Streamside Frog, Craugastor Taurus (Craugastoridae), in Costa Rica
Authors: Chaves Gerardo , Zumbado-Ulate Héctor , García-Rodríguez Adrián , Gómez Edwin , Vredenburg Vance Thomas , Ryan Mason J.
Published: October 2016

In 1987 the amphibian decline crisis reached its apex in Costa Rica when at least 17 species experienced population crashes and subsequently went undetected for decades. The amphibian declines in Costa Rica were relatively well documented and came to exemplify the current global amphibian decline crisis. The Mesoamerica endemic frog clade, the Craugastor punctariolus species group, is one of most severely affected anuran clades, experiencing a loss of 26 out of 33 species throughout Mesoamerica. Eight species of C. punctariolus group frogs occur in Costa Rica, and all declined following the 1987 die-off; despite intensive surveys over the last 14 years, most remain undetected. To date, only one species in this group, the stream-breeding frog C. ranoides, in known to have a stable population, and only in the Santa Elena Peninsula. Here we document the rediscovery of another species, the South Pacific streamside frog C. taurus, in southeastern Costa Rica, representing the first sighting after fifteen years of searching. We discovered two previously unknown populations in Punta Banco, the driest section within the historical range, in an area representing only 4% of the historical distribution. Our findings add to the short but growing list of recently rediscovered amphibian species in Costa Rica and provide encouraging news in an otherwise discouraging situation for amphibian conservation. Additional research and monitoring are urgently needed to develop long-term management plans for this and other Critically Endangered species
Ecology and Conservation of the Endangered Indochinese Freshwater Pearl Mussel, Margaritifera Laosensis (Lea, 1863) in the Nam Pe and Nam Long Rivers, Northern Laos
Authors: Bolotov Ivan , Vikhrev Ilya , Bespalaya Yulia , Artamonova Valentina , Gofarov Mikhail , Kolosova Julia , Kondakov Alexander , Makhrov Alexander , Frolov Artyom , Tumpeesuwan Sakboworn , Lyubas Artyom , Romanis Tatyana , Titova Ksenya
Published: October 2016

In this paper we present the first ecological data of Indochinese freshwater pearl mussel, Margaritifera laosensis populations. We also provide a comparative study of the ecology of this tropical species with populations of other Margaritiferidae. We conducted surveys in ten tributaries of the River Nam Ou (Middle Mekong Drainage, Northern Laos). Reproductively viable populations were found only in the Nam Long and Nam Pe rivers, which are two of the only three known viable populations of this species in the world. The habitats of M. laosensis include mountainous oligotrophic rivers with circumneutral pH. Optimal mesohabitats are riffles and runs with a median depth of 0.2 m and median current velocity of 0.3 ms−1. Pearl mussels were more common in gravel and fine gravel riverbed substrates. Surveys revealed 252 specimens, but only 78 (31.0%) were alive. The largest mussels observed were 110 mm in length and only 11–12 years of age. The presence of smaller-sized mussels indicates recent recruitment in both populations. The most significant threats to M. laosensis populations are harvest by local people and land development in the River Nam Ou Basin.
Evidence for an Edge Effect on Avian Nest Predation in Fragmented Afromontane Forests in the Bamenda-Banso Highlands, NW Cameroon
Authors: Sedláček Ondřej , Mikeš Martin , Albrecht Tomáš , Reif Jiří , Hořák David
Published: October 2016

Habitat loss and fragmentation in tropical areas have long been presumed to reduce avian nesting success due to increased predation rates. Nevertheless, this prediction remains largely untested in tropical areas, because empirical data on the impacts of forest fragmentation on nest predation at both the landscape and patch scales in the tropics are still scarce, especially in West Africa. In this study, we examined the edge effects on nest predation rates in a large montane forest block and small forest fragments. Artificial nests used for our experiments mimicked the real nests of passerines confined to montane forest undergrowth in the Bamenda-Banso Highlands, the Northwest region of Cameroon, an endemic bird area of high conservation priority. We found equal overall predation rates in the landscape dominated by the large forest block as well as in the landscape consisting of small forest fragments, implying that the probability of nest failure was not significantly affected by habitat fragmentation on a landscape scale. However, predation rates were higher close to forest edges in the small forest remnants. Since such remnants represent the majority of local montane forests, this result suggests that the edge effect on bird nest predation may reduce nest survival and the population viability of many range-restricted bird species confined to the remaining natural habitats of the Bamenda-Banso Highlands.
Termite Mound Identification through Aerial Photographic Interpretation in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo: Methodology Evaluation
Authors: Isabelle Vranken , Marielle Adam , Basile Mujinya Bazirake , François Munyemba Kankumbi , Geert Baert , Eric Van Ranst , Marjolein Visser , Jan Bogaert
Published: October 2016

Tropical termites are of critical importance for ecosystem functioning and ecosystem services in woodland and savannah areas. Termite mounds can also be used as fertilizer and biological indicators of anthropogenic disturbance linked to agriculture or charcoal production. Remote sensing may help to identify and characterize termite mound density and distribution at low cost. To test its effectiveness, termite mounds were identified in the field and compared with the results of image interpretation of free Google Earth aerial photographs. This comparison was carried out for 17 sites in the hinterland of the mining city of Lubumbashi, Katanga, Democratic Republic of the Congo, which faces high population growth, food insecurity, and intense fragmentation and degradation of the original Miombo woodland cover. The influences of mound height and diameter as well as the timing of the image capture (year and dry or wet season) were statistically tested. The actual number of termite mounds observed in the field was generally overestimated on the corresponding image. Height and wet season favoured correct identification, while spatial distribution was not significantly influenced by misidentifications. A corrective model was defined and its relevance statistically verified. Mound identification using Google Earth appears efficient so long as the precise individual mound position is not concerned. This approach represents considerable cost reduction for field surveys of termite mounds.
Restoration of Logged Humid Tropical Forests: An Experimental Programme at Harapan Rainforest, Indonesia
Authors: Harrison Rhett D , Swinfield Tom
Published: October 2016

Restoration of degraded tropical forests can enhance ecosystem service provisioning, improve habitat quality for tropical forest biota and generate income from timber and NTFPs. In Indonesia alone, an estimated 25 million ha of former logging concessions are without current management, representing a huge opportunity for biodiversity conservation. However, currently such forests are typically converted to plantations. Realising the restoration potential of these forests will require viable business models that couple restoration goals with income generation. Unfortunately, understanding of natural succession trajectories and cost-effectiveness of restoration interventions remains poor. We present an overview of research, including three planned experiments designed to test the economic viability of large-scale restoration treatments, in a former logging concession at Harapan Rainforest (98,455 ha), Indonesia. These experiments will address the following questions: (1) Can the selective removal of pioneer trees, including an invasive species, be used to accelerate succession; (2) how does the functional diversity of the planted matrix affect growth and survival of a high value target species; and (3) how does seed density affect recruitment success in direct seeding treatments? Treatments will be applied to large compartments (4~8 ha) to reduce edge effects and simplify management. Monitoring plots (20 × 20 m × 5 reps) within each compartment will be used to assess silvicultural responses, while changes in biodiversity and carbon storage will be monitored at the compartment level. The large spatial scale and high replication of the treatments will establish an experimental platform that will inform many different aspects of tropical forest ecology.