bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Responses of Transplanted Native Tree Species to Invasive Alien Grass Removals in an Abandoned Cattle Pasture in the Lacandon Region, Mexico
Authors: Román-Dañobeytia Francisco J. , Castellanos-Albores Jorge , Levy-Tacher Samuel I. , Aronson James , Ramírez-Marcial Neptalí , Rodrigues Ricardo Ribeiro
Published: October 2016

We tested the early performance of 16 native early-, mid-, and late-successional tree species in response to four intensities of grass removal in an abandoned cattle pasture dominated by the introduced, invasive African grass, Cynodon plectostachyus, within the Lacandon rainforest region, southeast Mexico. The increase in grass removals significantly improved the performance of many species, especially of early- and mid-successional species, while performance of late-successional species was relatively poor and did not differ significantly among treatments. Good site preparation and at least one additional grass removal four months after seedling transplant were found to be essential; additional grass removals led to improved significantly performance of saplings in most cases. In order to evaluate the potential of transplanting tree seedlings successfully in abandoned tropical pastures, we developed a “planting risk index”, combining field performance measurements and plantation cost estimations. Our results showed a great potential for establishing restoration plantings with many early- and mid-successional species. Although planting risk of late-successional species was considered high, certain species showed some possibilities of acclimation after 18 months and should be considered in future plantation arrangements in view of their long-term contributions to biodiversity maintenance and also to human welfare through delivery of ecosystem services. Conducting a planting risk analysis can help avoid failure of restoration strategies involving simultaneous planting of early-, mid-, and late-successional tree species. This in turn will improve cost-effectiveness of initial interventions in large-scale, long-term restoration programs.
Awareness and Perceptions of Local People about Wildlife Hunting in Western Serengeti Communities
Authors: Bitanyi Stella , Nesje Marit , Kusiluka Lughano JM , Chenyambuga Sebastian W , Kaltenborn Bjørn P
Published: October 2016

Examining local awareness and perceptions of illegal resource harvesting is a difficult but necessary part of designing efficient wildlife resources conservation programs. We examined awareness and attitudes related to wildlife hunting practices among local communities in the Magu, Bunda and Serengeti districts in the western part of Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. We also examined the influences of socio-demographic variables on awareness of hunting and some of the methodological challenges linked to researching sensitive resource topics. Members of these communities were fairly aware of the occurrence of illegal hunting practices, as well as the modalities of existing law enforcement, but knowledge about legal hunting systems was limited. The extent of awareness of these practices and attitudes towards them were significantly affected by age, gender, and level of education, with limited awareness observed among women and those with higher education levels. Observed challenges were mostly related to respondents' attitudes and sensitivity to illegal wildlife uses, including fear to disclose information and non-responses to specific questions. The relatively extensive awareness of illegal hunting practices probably reflects community members' involvement in illegal wildlife use. Improved education programs are needed as well as provision of alternative livelihood opportunities that may decrease dependence on wildlife resources.
Trade Bans: A Perfect Storm for Poaching?
Authors: Conrad Kirsten
Published: October 2016

Since CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) ratification 40 years ago, trade bans have emerged as a principle conservation tool for endangered species. While trade bans have been successful in helping to stabilize populations of certain species, evidence for others suggests that such bans are proving less effective. Looking at three species, the author identifies and explores a conflux of forces that, in the context of a trade ban, may result in an increase of illegal trade, further threatening a species already at risk. These forces include 1) inelastic demand and high profit potential, 2) long history of trade, both legal and illegal, coupled with strong cultural affiliation, 3) ambiguous property rights, 4) negative economic incentives for conservation due to human-animal conflict, and 5) inadequate enforcement. Termed a “Perfect Storm”, these forces combine to accelerate the demise of the species. In essence, a trade ban hands a monopoly on commerce to the black market. It is even possible that the trade ban protects the illegal market against competition, suggesting that other conservation tactics warrant consideration. The author concludes that legal, regulated trade needs to be fully investigated using fields of science that have evolved during CITES lifetime to determine if it is a viable tactic for conservation when such conditions exist.
Anthropisation et effets de lisière : Impacts sur la diversité des rongeurs dans la Réserve Forestière de Masako (Kisangani, R.D. Congo)
Authors: Mongo Léon Iyongo Waya , Visser Marjolein , De Cannière Charles , Verheyen Erik , Akaibe Benjamin Dudu , Ali-Patho Joseph Ulyel , Bogaert et Jan
Published: October 2016

Nous avons évalué l'impact anthropique sur la richesse, la diversité, l'abondance et la densité relative des Rongeurs dans quatre habitats de la Réserve de Masako au nord-est de la République Démocratique du Congo. Une forêt primaire à Gilbertiodendron dewevrei et trois habitats d'origine anthropique (forêt secondaire, jachère et zone de contact jachère/forêt secondaire (lisière)) ont été investigués de mai 2009 à avril 2010. 1275 spécimens répartis entre 24 espèces et 5 familles inventoriées ont permis de quantifier des différences de composition et d'abondances entre un habitat non perturbé et des milieux anthropisés, ainsi qu'entre une lisière et des habitats adjacents. Nos résultats montrent une distribution non uniforme des Rongeurs dans les quatre milieux. La richesse et la diversité sont élevées en lisière et faibles en forêt primaire. Chaque milieu héberge une densité relative différente. Les plus fortes densités sont observées en forêt secondaire et jachère; la plus faible est observée en forêt primaire. Les abondances diffèrent significativement entre les habitats, à l'exception de la paire forêt secondaire - jachère. Les paramètres dans la lisière diffèrent de ceux des habitats adjacents, traduisant l'existence d'un effet de lisière. Les équitabilités faibles obtenues dans tous les habitats traduisent l'instabilité relative de cet écosystème forestier. Le test de χ2 atteste l'existence de l'effet « saison » sur les abondances des Rongeurs. De même, ce test confirme l'existence de l'effet « activités anthropiques » sur les abondances dans les milieux anthropisés, mais pas en forêt primaire.
Distribución espacial de la riqueza de especies leñosas raras de la Península de Yucatán y su relación con las áreas naturales protegidas
Authors: Tetetla-Rangel Erika , Durán Rafael , Hernández-Stefanoni José Luis , Dupuy y Juan Manuel
Published: October 2016

Las especies de plantas raras de las selvas en la Península de Yucatán aún no han sido evaluadas como un grupo particular. Se seleccionó un conjunto de especies leñosas raras (ELR) de las selvas tropicales de la Península de Yucatán. Se estimó la riqueza de especies, sumando los mapas de distribución potencial de cada especie, y se evaluó su relación con las Áreas Naturales Protegidas (ANP) de la península. Se identificaron 3 niveles de rareza -bajo, medio y alto-, de acuerdo a la frecuencia, la especificidad de hábitat y el rango de distribución potencial de las especies seleccionadas. Se identificaron 4 regiones de mayor riqueza de ELR. Todas las regiones incluyeron especies del nivel de rareza bajo, 3 regiones incluyeron especies de nivel medio y sólo una región incluyó especies extremadamente raras (nivel alto); esta región está fuera de las ANP establecidas. La riqueza de ELR se asoció positivamente con el tamaño de las ANP. Este estudio representa el primer esfuerzo para conocer a las especies leñosas raras de la Península de Yucatán, sus patrones de distribución potencial y evaluar su estado de protección actual. Nuestros resultados sugieren que las ANP actuales podrían estar preservando la riqueza de ELR del nivel bajo y medio de rareza, pero no la riqueza de las especies extremadamente raras. Por lo tanto, es prioritario el establecimiento de ANP en la región en la que podría concentrarse la más alta riqueza de estas especies, que son particularmente vulnerables a la extinción.
Managing the Risk of Biodiversity Leakage from Prioritising REDD+ in the Most Carbon-Rich Forests: The Case Study of Peat-Swamp Forests in Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Harrison Mark E. , Paoli Gary D.
Published: October 2016

One major concern regarding the biodiversity impacts of Reduced Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation (REDD+) is “leakage” of threats from REDD+ to non-REDD+ forests, particularly if those forests storing the highest amounts of carbon – and thus prioritized under REDD+ – do not coincide with those most important for biodiversity conservation. This concern applies globally, and has been previously discussed in Indonesia, where the highest-carbon forests on peat are known to support lower species diversity and concentrations of threatened species than lowland mineral-soil forests. To help refine management of this risk, we discuss previously overlooked considerations regarding biodiversity threat leakage, suggest three strategies for managing leakage risk, and outline important questions to address with respect to these. We emphasize (1) the need to recognize intrinsic differences in threat displacement vulnerability among forests not currently protected/proposed to be protected under REDD+; and (2) that not pursuing REDD+ in high-carbon forests in an attempt to avoid leakage will not necessarily reduce this risk in low-carbon, non-REDD+ forests, due to the often high intrinsic vulnerability of these forests. Further to previous recommendations, suggested strategies for reducing risk of threat displacement include (1) focusing “traditional” conservation resources on the most vulnerable high-biodiversity forests not scheduled for protection under REDD+; (2) reducing costs, simplifying procedures and encouraging community-based approaches for pursuing REDD+ in low-carbon, high-biodiversity forests; and (3) developing more creative measures, especially fiscal and financial incentives, for protecting vulnerable low-carbon forests. Inter-disciplinary research is urgently needed to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of these strategies to successfully manage biodiversity leakage risk from pursuing REDD+ in high-carbon forests and, thus, for ensuring REDD+ achieves its potential for generating biodiversity conservation gains.
Recovery of Atlantic Rainforest Areas Altered by Distinct Land-Use Histories in Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Rocha-Santos Larissa , Talora Daniela C.
Published: October 2016

The restoration of anthropogenically disturbed sites contributes to biodiversity conservation, but pre-recovery land-use history affects the restoration and recovery time of impacted forest sites. The objective of the present study was to assess the effects of different land-use histories (low-impact logging - LL, high-impact logging – HL, and slash-and-burn - SB) on quantitative (diversity values) and qualitative (floristic composition) measures of forest recovery. This research was conducted in Atlantic rainforest areas of Bahia State, Brazil, which had remained undisturbed for 50 to 60 years after human disturbance. Surprisingly, the area subjected to the most aggressive usage (SB) showed intermediate richness and diversity values, but had a floristic composition dominated by pioneer species similar to early-successional forests. Families typical of preserved areas (Sapotaceae and Myrtaceae) were more diverse in LL and HL areas. Our results indicate both quantitative and qualitative recovery in areas subjected to LL, which tended to recover without intervention. Areas subjected to HL showed intermediate qualitative recovery and the lowest quantitative recovery, and may therefore require enrichment to accelerate recovery. Despite good quantitative (species richness and diversity) recovery, the slash-and-burn areas had a predominance of early successional species, which indicates that enrichment actions are essential for the recovery of these forest areas. Knowledge of how land-use history influences forest restoration processes can guide management actions and thereby contribute to the allocation of resources where they are really needed.
Mapping Recent Deforestation and Forest Disturbance in Northeastern Madagascar
Authors: Allnutt Thomas F. , Asner Gregory P. , Golden Christopher D. , Powell George V. N.
Published: October 2016

We conducted an analysis of deforestation and forest disturbance from 2005-2011 in Masoala National Park, the largest federal protected area in Madagascar. We found that the annual rate of forest change in 2010-2011 within the park (1.27%) was considerably higher than in 2005-2008 (0.99%), and was higher than the most recently published deforestation rate for all of Madagascar. Although deforestation and disturbance immediately following the 2009 coup d'état were lower than in the other time periods analyzed, the longer-term increase in forest change over the study period corroborates recent ground-based accounts of increased illegal activities in national parks, including logging of precious hardwoods. We also analyzed forest disturbance patterns in relation to rivers and travel distance from permanent villages. Forest disturbances were significantly closer to rivers than expected by chance, and 82% of disturbance was within the mean maximum travel distance to villages surrounding the park. Both results strongly indicate that most of the mapped disturbance in the study area is anthropogenic, despite two cyclones during the study period. High-resolution forest monitoring ensures that forest change statistics accurately reflect anthropogenic disturbances and are not inflated by forest losses resulting from natural processes.
Heavy Metal Concentrations of Two Highly Migratory Sharks (Prionace Glauca and Isurus Oxyrinchus) in the Southeastern Pacific Waters: Comments on Public Health and Conservation
Authors: Lopez Sebastián A. , Abarca Nicole L. , Meléndez Roberto C.
Published: October 2016

Despite the importance of sharks in structuring the marine food web, their biomass is declining dramatically throughout the world's oceans due to fishing pressures. Sharks caught as by-catch in long-line fisheries are sold for shark fins in the Asian fish market and secondarily as trunk sales for local consumption and fish meal. In order to determine the levels of heavy metals (mercury and lead) in oceanic shark populations in South Pacific waters, analyses of 39 Prionace glauca and 69 Isurus oxyrinchus were conducted. Mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb) were measured by cold vapor and via acetylene flame techniques, respectively. Mercury concentrations were similar in the studied sharks (p=0.1516), with 0.048 ± 0.03 μg·g−1 w/w for P. glauca and 0.034 ± 0.023 μg·g−1 w/w for I. oxyrinchus. P. glauca showed greater values of lead than I. oxyrinchus (p<0.001). Large specimens of both species showed high heavy metal concentration, while sexes showed no statistical differences (p>0.05). The metal concentrations reported in this work constitute a risk for human health, mainly from the high contributions of lead in tissues of P. glauca and I. oxyrinchus.
Invasive Alien Plants Elicit Reduced Production of Flowers and Fruits in Various Native Forest Species on the Tropical Island of Mauritius (Mascarenes, Indian Ocean)
Authors: Monty M.L. Fabiola , Florens F.B. Vincent , Baider Cláudia
Published: October 2016

Biological invasions constitute a major threat to biodiversity. However, while the impact of invasive alien animals on native biota is often unambiguous, the impacts of invasive alien plants (IAP) appear to be considerably less severe and, at times, more debatable. Invasion by alien plants co-occur with other drivers of habitat change such that assessing impacts of IAP independently of these other factors may be difficult. Generalisations can be misleading, because studies reveal different responses of native plants to the presence of IAP. Therefore, there is a need to understand general trends and exceptions within a particular habitat. In the island of Mauritius, mechanical control of invasive alien plants has been implemented for decades in lowland wet forests. Weeded and non-weeded areas are very similar in all aspects, except for the control of IAP, providing an opportunity to study how IAP are affecting native plants. We monitored the reproductive output of 20-40 individuals each, of nine selected native species from different forest strata, in both weeded and adjacent non-weeded areas in a lowlan d wet forest, through direct count/estimation of the number of flower buds, flowers and fruits. Flower bud, flower and fruit production were greater in the weeded area. These results are consistent with previous findings that noted greater regeneration of native trees in these areas. This study also provides clues to reported decline of shade tolerant understory vegetation in alien invaded forest and further stresses the importance of removing alien plants to restore biodiversity and function and achieve conservation success.
Protecting Wildlife in a Heavily Hunted Biodiversity Hotspot: A Case Study from the Atlantic Forest of Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Flesher Kevin M. , Laufer Juliana
Published: October 2016

Hunting is one of the principal causes of wildlife declines throughout the tropics. Even with an increase in the number of reserves, protecting wildlife has proven difficult and many reserves remain little different from unprotected areas. In Brazil, private landowners are being encouraged by federal and state governments and non-governmental organizations to participate in a national conservation strategy by setting aside land for preservation. However, due to chronic hunting pressure, the role that private reserves might play remains to be determined. In this study we analyze the potential of private reserves through a case study of the Reserva Ecológica Michelin in Bahia, Brazil. We measured the relative abundances of medium and large mammals before and after the implementation of guard patrols, to determine the efficacy of this management strategy for protecting wildlife. The relative abundance of the fauna increased by 72.6 % after the initiation of guard patrols, from 5.07 to 8.68 encounters/10 km, with preferred game species (Dasypus novemcinctus, Cuniculus paca, Pecari tajacu, and Mazama americana)increasing by 146.7-300%. Similarities between the relative abundances of preferred game species at our site after the initiation of the guard patrols and those of other protected Neotropical reserves indicate that the Michelin reserve is now being effectively protected. Although the cost of $9.4/ha to protect the reserve is high, this study shows that the private reserve initiative can be an effective component of the national conservation strategy.
The Case for Improved Forest Management (IFM) as a Priority REDD+ Strategy in the Tropics
Authors: Griscom Bronson W. , Cortez Rane
Published: October 2016

We address the controversy over REDD+ financing for commercial loggers who reduce emissions by adopting improved forest management (IFM). We argue that REDD+ incentives should be available to commercial loggers who adopt IFM as long as carbon accounting is rigorous and safeguards are followed. Further, we argue that where full forest protection is not feasible, IFM should be advanced as a priority REDD+ strategy because it can (i) achieve robust emissions reductions without generating leakage or increasing the risk of non-permanence, (ii) generate a variety of local community benefits as a low-carbon development strategy, (iii) maintain native forest biodiversity, and (iv) reduce the likelihood of deforestation, particularly when forest management is community-based. We discuss solutions to some of the remaining challenges to creating incentives for IFM within a REDD+ mechanism. We encourage continued refinement of safeguards to ensure that verified climate benefits of IFM also generate social and biodiversity benefits. REDD+ financing is needed to catalyze the shift to IFM, but IFM should not be dependent (or at least not fully dependent) upon REDD+ financing for long-term financial viability. Measuring, monitoring, and validating emissions reductions from IFM have been a particular challenge, although new technologies and methods are promising. Technologies and methods used to account for avoided deforestation are usually not sensitive enough to detect changes in forest management practices. Funding is needed for research to develop and refine affordable methodologies for measuring, monitoring, and validating emissions reductions achieved through IFM.
From Amazon Pasture to the High Street: Deforestation and the Brazilian Cattle Product Supply Chain
Authors: Walker Nathalie F. , Patel Sabrina A. , Kalif Kemel A. B.
Published: October 2016

Brazil has the world's highest annual area of tropical deforestation, and cattle ranching is the largest driver of deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon. Recent domestic and international market demand for beef and leather that are not linked to deforestation led the largest Brazilian meatpackers to adopt policies to reject supplies from ranches with recent deforestation. However, increased and sustained enforcement of such policies will be needed to reduce deforestation in these supply chains over the long-term. We sought to map the Brazilian cattle product supply chain to determine the proportion of the market, and of cattle production, that may be susceptible to market demands for deforestation-free supplies. Beef, leather and live animal exports are the most valuable products from the cattle industry, with export values tripling between 2001 and 2009, and with China, Russia and the U.S. as the largest importing countries. The markets for dairy and tallow (beef fat) are predominantly domestic. We find that around 40% of beef and 85% of leather production serve markets that have expressed concerns over environmental impacts of their purchases, while the clandestine market, which is not susceptible to market environmental demands, is estimated to comprise about one quarter of the Brazilian cattle slaughter. Demand for Brazilian cattle products is growing, and while market-driven efforts to reduce deforestation linked to legal slaughter have shown success, improved governance and other measures will be needed to tackle the environmental impacts of the clandestine industry.
Potential Distributional Patterns of Three Wild Ungulate Species in a Fragmented Tropical Region of Northeastern Mexico
Authors: García-Marmolejo G. , Chapa-Vargas L. , Huber-Sannwald E. , Weber M. , Rosas-Rosas O.C. , Martínez-Calderas J.
Published: October 2016

In the northernmost American tropical forests of eastern Mexico, we analyzed the potential distribution of three ungulate species, Odocoileus virginianus, Mazama temama and Pecari tajacu, in response to several physical, climatic, biological, and anthropogenic variables, in order to identify environmental factors affecting distribution and potential key areas for ungulate conservation. Current presence records for these species were gathered, and potential distribution models were built using Maximum Entropy niche modeling (MaxEnt). Model suitability surfaces were used to calculate remaining potential habitat areas in the region, as well as the potential sympatric area and representation of these areas in Natural Protected Areas. Biological and anthropogenic variables were the best species distribution predictors. Landscape composition (the proportion of different land-use and land-cover classes: forest, agriculture, and pasture) within approximately 120 ha, was the most important variable for all models, influencing each species differently with respect to their tolerance of altered habitats. The remaining potential area of all three species is fragmented and has apparently been nearly lost in plains (<14% remaining). Distribution models allowed us to detect an important location in the western portion of our study area which may function as a large biological corridor in the Sierra Madre Oriental mastogeographic province, a region heavily transformed by land use change. In the context of habitat transformation, management promoting quality matrix at the landscape level promises to be a viable alternative for ungulate conservation in tropical regions of Mexico.
The Thin-Spined Porcupine, Chaetomys Subspinosus (Rodentia: Erethizontidae), within Protected Areas in the Atlantic Forest, Brazil: Local Knowledge and Threats
Authors: Castilho Luciana C. , Martinez Romari A. , Giné Gastón A. F. , Ribeiro Gabriela C. , Schiavetti Alexandre
Published: October 2016

The thin-spined porcupine, Chaetomys subspinosus, is an endemic mammal of the Atlantic forest of northeastern Brazil. With its population declining, it has been listed as “vulnerable” in the Brazilian Red List. Its National Action Plan, published in 2011, intended to develop awareness projects about the species in local communities, to implement alternative income projects and protein consumption, and to evaluate hunting pressure. This study investigates rural residents' knowledge of the thin-spined porcupine and its uses within two protected areas. We also examine residents' behaviour and perceptions about wildlife conservation. One hundred twenty-five semi-structured interviews were conducted with rural residents of the Una Wildlife Refuge and the Serra do Conduru State Park. Local knowledge was higher among males with lower levels of formal education who were current or past hunters. Negative behaviour occurs among residents in both protected areas. There is a need for greater control of potential threats such as hunting, use of fire and deforestation, which are inconsistent with the existence of protected areas and conservation of the thin-spined porcupine. Information provided by this study can improve and promote actions within the National Action Plan for the conservation of C. subspinosus.
Hunting and Wildlife use in an Atlantic Forest Remnant of Northeastern Brazil
Authors: de Souza Jamylle Barcellos , Alves Rômulo Romeu Nóbrega
Published: October 2016

The hunting of wild vertebrates is a widespread practice in Brazil. From a socioeconomic perspective, this is important for providing meat and other products. However, there are big conservation implications for the hunted species; this highlights the need for research on hunting activity within that context. This paper investigates, from an ethnozoological point of view, the hunting and use of wildlife in the municipality of Conde, in the Atlantic Forest area of the State of Paraíba. We interviewed local hunters, and 68 huntable animals were registered in the following categories: mammals (24), birds (26) and reptiles (18). The motivations for hunting in the surveyed area include the use of meat as food, zootherapy (use of parts of the animal's body for medicinal purposes), the capture of animals for pets, and control hunting of animals that threaten agriculture, kill laying hens, and present a risk to the hunter's health. The techniques for capturing the animals include hunting with a hound dog, use of a shotgun, ambushing (“tocaia”), imitation (“arremedo”), and traps. The registration of species enhances knowledge regarding the hunting of wildlife in the State of Paraíba. This paper is particularly important as there is no research on hunting in the Atlantic Forest area. We expect our results to contribute to the implementation/perfecting of public policies that address wildlife management and conservation of the region's biodiversity.
Building a Species Conservation Strategy for the Brown Howler Monkey (Alouatta Guariba Clamitans) in Argentina in the Context of Yellow Fever Outbreaks
Authors: Agostini Ilaria , Holzmann Ingrid , Di Bitetti Mario S. , Oklander Luciana I. , Kowalewski Martín M. , Beldomnico Pablo M. , Goenaga Silvina , Martínez Mariela , Moreno Eduardo S. , Lestani Eduardo , Desbiez Arnaud L. J. , Miller Philip
Published: October 2016

The brown howler monkey ( Alouatta guariba clamitans) is endemic to South America's Atlantic Forest, with a small population extending into the northern portion of Misiones province in northeastern Argentina. In 2012, the species was classified as Critically Endangered in Argentina due to its highly restricted distribution, low population density and dramatic declines from recent Yellow Fever outbreaks. In March 2013, we organized an international workshop in Misiones to evaluate population status in Argentina and conduct a threat analysis. We developed population viability models using Vortex and Outbreak software packages. These tools allowed us to explore how several biological and demographic parameters of brown howlers, as well as factors related to Yellow Fever epidemiology, affect the probability of species extinction. The discussion among diverse specialists and analysis of model results identified Yellow Fever as the main threat to brown howler population persistence in Argentina. Our threat analysis, focused on the dynamics of Yellow Fever outbreaks and their impact on howler populations, led to the identification of gaps in knowledge that helped prioritize objectives and actions for the development of a Species Conservation Strategy in Argentina.
Spread of the Invasive Alien Species Piper Aduncum via Logging Roads in Borneo
Authors: Padmanaba Michael , Sheil Douglas
Published: October 2016

We examine how spiked pepper ( Piper aduncum L., Piperaceae), a shade intolerant, animal-dispersed Neotropical tree, is spreading in the interior of Borneo. Concerned that logging roads might be facilitating this spread, we made a series of observations, relating tree distribution, location and road history, in a concession in East Kalimantan. These roads will connect West Kutai and Malinau Districts and may allow alien plants to disperse from one to the other. We observed that P. aduncum was already well established on the oldest, southern portions of the logging road network, but was absent on the newest roads to the north. A few scattered individuals occur on the roadside as much as 150 km beyond the main areas dominated by P. aduncum, suggesting an occasional ability to achieve long-hop dispersal. Rivers of 30 m width are not a barrier to P. aduncum's spread. Based on road age, we estimate a minimum rate of spread between five and seven km per year. We infer that logging roads are assisting P. aduncum to spread and the tree will become widely established in Malinau District. Prevention of this spread would require urgent, intensive and coordinated control over the length of the road network and, more generally, major restrictions on how such roads are located and managed.
Movement and Activity Pattern of a Collared Tigress in a Human-Dominated Landscape in Central India
Authors: Athreya Vidya , Navya R. , Punjabi Girish A. , Linnell John D. C. , Odden Morten , Khetarpal S. , Karanth K. Ullas
Published: October 2016

Tigers ( Panthera tigris) are wide-ranging species, and a permeable landscape matrix outside Protected Areas (PAs) is extremely important for their dispersal. A tigress which had fallen in a water duct in the Nagpur district was rescued by the Forest Department on 12th October, 2011 and released on 27th November, 2011 in a forest adjacent to the site of capture. A GPS-GSM collar that we fitted on her indicated that she remained in the same forest area until 25th December, 2011, and then moved eastwards into a human-dominated landscape where she was present until 25th March, 2012, after which the GPS battery ceased to function. She moved a minimum distance of 454.65 km from the time of her release up to 25th March, 2012, using a total area of 726 km2 (95% MCP), but between 30th December, 2011 and 25th March, 2012, after moving into the human-dominated forest-agricultural landscape her home range was 431 km2 (95% MCP). Her home range also encompassed villages, roads and croplands. Her activity was largely nocturnal and she rested in dense foliage inside forest patches during the day. About half of all the prey items that we identified during this period (n = 12) were wild pigs ( Sus scrofa). Although, she was present very close to areas where humans were active in the day, no untoward incident occurred. She was photographed in April 2013, a year after the collar stopped functioning, in the same region about 40 km from the release site, indicating that she is still present in the human-dominated area. Very little is known about tiger ecology, and their temporal and spatial patterns of movement, outside PAs. These areas will be crucial in terms of dispersal between PAs as well as sensitive in terms of conflict.
First Photographic Evidence of Flat-Headed Cats (Prionailurus Planiceps) in Pasoh Forest Reserve, Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Wadey Jamie , Fletcher Christine , Campos-Arceiz Ahimsa
Published: October 2016

The flat-headed cat Prionailurus planiceps is the smallest wild felid in Southeast Asia. Currently it is thought to be patchily distributed throughout Sumatra, Borneo, Peninsular Malaysia, and Thailand. Conclusive information on the species distribution, populations, and ecology is largely missing due to the lack of species detection. Here we report the first photographic evidence of flat-headed cats in Pasoh Forest Reserve, and second ever in Peninsular Malaysia. Two individuals moving together during daytime in lowland dipterocarp forest far from water bodies and near an oil palm plantation were photographed. The capture took place in June 2013 with a camera trap located at a height of 10 cm above the ground. Besides adding important information on the species' potential distribution and ecological ranges, we speculate that flat-headed cat ecology and the height of camera traps could be important factors why the species escapes detection.
Association between Small Rodents and Forest Patch and Landscape Structure in the Fragmented Lacandona Rainforest, Mexico
Authors: San-José Miriam , Arroyo-Rodríguez Víctor , Sánchez-Cordero Víctor
Published: October 2016

Identifying the main factors that shape biological communities in human-modified tropical landscapes has key ecological and conservation implications. In these emerging landscapes, the maintenance of biodiversity may depend on both forest patch and landscape attributes, but this topic has been poorly investigated. Here we assessed the landscape (forest cover, degree of fragmentation, and matrix composition) and patch metrics (tree basal area, patch size, and isolation) that best predicted the abundance and diversity of small terrestrial rodents in the Lacandona rainforest, Mexico. In 2011 and 2012, we sampled rodent communities in 12 sites (9 patches and 3 areas within a continuous forest). We assessed the landscape characteristics within a 100-ha buffer from the center of each site. In total, we captured 78 individuals in 2011 and 82 individuals in 2012 from four species: Desmarest's Spiny Pocket Mouse ( Heteromys desmarestianus), Rice Rat ( Oryzomys sp.), Mexican Deermouse ( Peromyscus mexicanus), and Toltec Cotton Rat ( Sigmodon toltecus). Only the abundance of rodents was strongly associated with forest patch and landscape attributes, but the best predictors differed between years. The degree of fragmentation, matrix composition, and patch isolation showed the lowest impact on rodents, probably because the region is dominated by a highly heterogeneous anthropogenic matrix. Community composition was weakly related to patch and landscape attributes in both years. Overall, our findings suggest that almost a half-century of land use in the region has not led to significant changes at the community level, but additional long-term studies including arboreal species are needed before a strong conclusion can be drawn.
Seed Rain in Abandoned Clearings in a Lowland Evergreen Rain Forest in Southern Thailand
Authors: Sritongchuay Tuanjit , Gale George A. , Stewart Alyssa , Kerdkaew Thanate , Bumrungsri Sara
Published: October 2016

Some forest restoration techniques treat remnant shrubs as competitors of newly planted tree seedlings, often clearing shrubs and weeds before trees are planted, but such plants may have significant value in attracting seed dispersers. In this study we examined the role of remnant trees and shrubs in grassland as a tool for passive and low cost ecological restoration. We determined the species density and abundance of both seed rain and its vertebrate dispersers in relation to different microhabitats (shrub-like vs. tree-like vegetation vs. grassland patches) in a 20–ha clearing of weeds mixed with early successional woody vegetation in a lowland evergreen forest in southern Thailand. We quantified seed rain from 60 seed traps placed in each microhabitat, and compared differences in seed abundance and species richness, while also examining the effect of distance from the forest edge. We found that seed rain abundance and seed species richness were significantly different among microhabitats. Seed rain was highest under shrubs, followed by under trees and then grassland, whereas seed species richness was highest under trees, followed by under shrubs, and grassland. Distance from the forest edge affected seed rain abundance under trees only. Birds (bulbuls and flowerpeckers) were the main dispersers of seeds at trees and shrubs respectively, while bats were the primary dispersers for the grassland patches. Different seed disperser groups appear to have complementary roles, such that sites containing a mixture of vegetation types including early successional vegetation may attract significantly more seed dispersers.
Invasive House (Rattus Rattus) and Brown Rats (Rattus Norvegicus) Threaten the Viability of Red-Billed Tropicbird (Phaethon Aethereus) in Abrolhos National Park, Brazil
Authors: Sarmento Raissa , Brito Daniel , Ladle Richard James , Leal da Rosa Gustavo , Efe Marcio Amorim
Published: October 2016

Destruction of nests and predation by introduced species are among the main factors responsible for seabird declines. The red-billed tropicbird ( Phaethon aethereus) is a tropical, colonially nesting seabird whose distribution in Brazil is restricted to a small, isolated breeding colony located within Abrolhos National Park. This represents the southernmost population of the species in the western Atlantic, and is among the most southerly in its global distribution. Despite its isolation, the population on Abrolhos is threatened by egg predation by two invasive rat species: the house rat ( Rattus rattus) and brown rat ( Rattus norvegicus). In this study we conduct a population viability analysis of P. aethereus in Abrolhos to estimate the potential long term impacts of the rats. Our results indicate that egg and chick predation by rats has the potential to quickly drive the Abrolhos tropicbird population into serious decline. Reducing this threat may require the urgent implementation of a rat control program.
Phylogenetic Position of the Most Endangered Chilean Bird: The Masafuera Rayadito (Aphrastura Masafuerae; Furnariidae)
Authors: Gonzalez Javier
Published: October 2016

Masafuera Rayadito ( Aphrastura masafuerae; Furnariidae) is a Critically Endangered species endemic to Alejandro Selkirk Island (Juan Fernández Archipelago, Chile). Categorized as probably extinct in 1980, later estimates, ranging from 140 (in 2002) to 500 individuals (in 2006–2007), showed a fluctuating population size of the species. The grazing of goats and cattle has increased habitat loss for the species. Other threats are lack of nesting sites, introduced species such as feral cats and rats ( Rattus rattus and R. norvegicus), and increased populations of natural predators like the Masafuera Hawk. In order to increase the availability of nesting sites, 81 nest boxes were installed in different habitats in 2006, with evidence of use during subsequent breeding seasons. Despite conservation concerns, however, no genetic studies are yet available for this furnariid. This study reports for the first time the levels of genetic divergence of the species, based on nucleotide sequences of the mitochondrial DNA (cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 gene; COI). Aphrastura masafuerae is closely related to a widespread species of furnariid distributed mainly in Chile on the mainland, the Thorn-tailed Rayadito ( A. spinicauda). The Masafuera Rayadito diverged from its mainland sister species probably during the Pleistocene 0.57 ± 0.19 Myr ago. Consistent with mitochondrial and nuclear molecular clocks, the estimated time of the split between A. masafuerae and A. spinicauda is in perfect agreement with the geological origin of the Juan Fernández Archipelago, which is of volcanic origin. In order to assess genetic variability within the population of this fragile bird, further studies using a multi-locus genetic approach at the population level are necessary.
Does Tree Planting Change Minds? Assessing the Use of Community Participation in Reforestation to Address Illegal Logging in West Kalimantan
Authors: Pohnan Erica , Ompusunggu Hotlin , Webb Campbell
Published: October 2016

Gunung Palung National Park in West Kalimantan, Indonesia has been persistently threatened by illegal logging for the past several decades. Subsequent fires have led to the encroachment of noxious grasses such as Imperata cylindrica, which have arrested succession to secondary forest within and around the park. Since 2009, local NGO Alam Sehat Lestari (ASRI) has reforested 20 hectares of degraded Imperata grassland within the park, with the goal of restoring forest area and decreasing the incidence of illegal logging inside the park by providing jobs and income to local people. In February 2013, a survey was conducted to assess the social impacts of the reforestation program, and to test the hypothesis that participation in reforestation can reduce instances of illegal logging through two pathways: (1) economic improvement for participants; (2) altering perceptions towards illegal logging. Structured interviews were conducted with 50 local residents, one-third of which identified as former illegal loggers, to gauge their perceptions towards forest conservation and illegal logging. The survey found that 80% of respondents believed that the reforestation program helped to reduce illegal logging in the park. However, the pathways through which this change occurred were different from those hypothesized. There was little evidence supporting the “perceptions change” pathway, but greater evidence supporting the “economic improvement” pathway through the medium of skill-building rather than direct economic improvement. Approximately 50% of participants reported engaging in self-directed tree planting activities post-involvement. These results suggest that forest restoration can effectively be used as a community-engagement tool to address illegal logging.
Measuring Success in a Community Conservation Project: Local Population Increase in a Critically Endangered Primate, the Yellow-Tailed Woolly Monkey (Lagothrix Flavicauda) at La Esperanza, Northeastern Peru
Authors: Sam Shanee , Shanee Noga
Published: October 2016

The yellow tailed woolly monkey ( Lagothrix flavicauda) is one of the world's most threatened primate species. It is endemic to a small area of montane forest in northern Peru, an area with high immigration and deforestation rates. Since 2007, community conservation actions have been implemented in the area of Yambrasbamba, a farming community in Amazonas department. These actions included the signing of voluntary pledges by local villagers to control hunting and forest clearance. A first population density survey was carried out in 2008/9, shortly after the implementation of these pledges; a second survey in the same area that replicated the methods used in the previous survey was carried out in 2012/13. Using transect width estimation from line transects and a Normalized Difference Vegetative Index (NDVI) from satellite images, we compared population density and deforestation rates between surveys. Results showed an increase in the L. flavicauda population at the study site, with significant increases in densities of infant ( P <0.001) and juvenile individuals ( P = 0.019). This suggests that increases are from natural population growth rather than the in-migration of groups or individuals from outlying areas. The NDVI showed low levels of deforestation still occurring in the area, but at a lower rate than the regional and national averages. Our results provide compelling evidence that Community Conservation projects can be successful in highly populated areas, and we urge conservation practitioners to involve local actors when planning and implementing initiatives.
The New Toad in Town: Distribution of the Asian Toad, Duttaphrynus Melanostictus, in the Toamasina Area of Eastern Madagascar
Authors: Moore Maya , Francois Solofo Niaina Fidy Jean , Edmonds Devin
Published: October 2016

In March 2014, the Asian toad Duttaphrynus melanostictus was reported from Madagascar's second largest city and main port Toamasina, raising immediate concerns about the invasive nature of the newly introduced toad and its environmental impact should it spread throughout the island. As part of a study on the feasibility of eradication, we conducted 516 interviews and 120 visual encounter surveys between April and November 2014. We found the toad to be widespread to the south and west of city center and estimate its minimum range to include an area of at least 108 km2. Social surveys indicate that the toad may have already been present for some years and potentially introduced prior to 2010, with the site of its introduction likely south of Toamasina near National Route 2 and the Ambatovy Plant. We discuss limitations of our survey methodology, proposed improvements for future work, and the implications of our results on eradication and control measures.