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- ORX volume 56 issue 3 Cover and Front matter
Pages: 1 - 2
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000539
- ORX volume 56 issue 3 Cover and Back matter
Pages: 1 - 2
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000527
- How can we increase capacity for species conservation in the post-2020
Global Biodiversity Framework'
Authors: Maggs; Gwen, Slater, Helen D., McGowan, Philip J.K.
Pages: 321 - 322
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000424
- Briefly
Pages: 323 - 328
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S003060532200031X
- Community-led sustainable finance mechanism for conservation in Uganda
Authors: Niwamanya; Rogers, Tumwa, Silver, Lawson, Cath, Mohanan, Kiran
Pages: 329 - 329
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000242
- New database enhances the accessibility of global biodiversity information
for conservation monitoring
Authors: Stephenson; P.J., Ruiz de Paz, Angela
Pages: 329 - 330
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000205
- Thousands of pastoralists seek refuge in Waza National Park, Cameroon
Authors: Scholte; Paul, Kari, Saïdou, Moritz, Mark
Pages: 330 - 330
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000217
- The African softshell turtle Trionyx triunguis in Senegal
Authors: McGovern; Pearson
Pages: 330 - 331
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000199
- A historic event marks World Rhino Day 2021 in India
Authors: Dutta; Himangshu, Das, Saumitro
Pages: 331 - 331
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000175
- Searching for two endemic plants on Nusakambangan Island (Indonesia) last
collected more than a century ago
Authors: Primananda; Enggal, Rinandio, Dipta Sumeru, Robiansyah, Iyan
Pages: 332 - 332
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000229
- GlobalTree Portal: visualizing the State of the World's trees
Authors: Beech; Emily, Hills, Ryan, Rivers, Malin
Pages: 332 - 332
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000254
- Online trade threatens even inconspicuous wildlife
Authors: Nijman; Vincent
Pages: 332 - 333
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000187
- Observation of twins in hippopotamus in Nigeria
Authors: Usman; Adamu, Farinelli, Sarah M., Baker, Lynne R.
Pages: 333 - 333
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000230
- Northern river terrapins Batagur baska reintroduced in Sundarban Tiger
Reserve, India
Authors: Singh; Shailendra, Dutta, Sreeparna, Justin, S. Jones, Walde, Andrew D.
Pages: 334 - 334
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000266
- Newly proposed protection list excludes aquatic wildlife, exposing a
long-standing wildlife management problem in China
Authors: Shi; Hai-Tao, Wang, Jian, Chen, Huaiqing, Parham, James F.
Pages: 334 - 335
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000321
- Genetic evidence indicates the occurrence of the Endangered Kashmir musk
deer Moschus cupreus in Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Kumar; Ajit, Singh, Bhim, Sahoo, Subhashree, Gautam, Kumudani Bala, Gupta, Sandeep Kumar
Pages: 367 - 372
Abstract: The Endangered Kashmir musk deer Moschus cupreus occurs in the western Himalayan region from Nepal to Afghanistan, but there is a lack of comprehensive and reliable information on its range. The region also harbours the Endangered Himalayan musk deer Moschus leucogaster, and this range overlap may have led to misidentification of the two musk deer species and errors in the delimitation of their ranges. Here, using genetic analysis of the mitochondrial DNA control region, we examined the phylogenetic relationship among musk deer samples from three regions in India: Ganderbal District in Jammu and Kashmir, and Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, both in Uttarakhand. The Bayesian phylogenetic analysis indicated a close genetic relationship between samples from Jammu and Kashmir, Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, validated by previously published sequences of Kashmir musk deer from Nepal. Our analyses confirmed the samples from Uttarakhand to be from the Kashmir musk deer, which was not previously known from this region. Therefore, we recommend further research in this area, to validate species identification and confirm the geographical distribution of the various species of musk deer. In addition, we recommend revision of the range of M. cupreus in the IUCN Red List assessment, to facilitate effective conservation and management of this Endangered species.
PubDate: 2022-01-31
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605321000417
- Detecting tropical wildlife declines through camera-trap monitoring: an
evaluation of the Tropical Ecology Assessment and Monitoring
protocol—CORRIGENDUM
Authors: Beaudrot; Lydia, Ahumada, Jorge, O'Brien, Timothy G., Jansen, Patrick A.
Pages: 475 - 475
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000047
- Extinctions: Living and Dying in the Margin of Error by Michael Hannah
(2021) 325 pp., Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK. ISBN
978-1-108-84353-9 (hbk), GBP 20.00.
Authors: Roberts; David L.
Pages: 478 - 478
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000369
- All Asian Primates by Sylvain Beauséjour, Anthony B. Rylands, Russell A.
Mittermeier (2021) 536 pp., Lynx Edicions, Barcelona, Spain. ISBN
978-1-7372851-1-3 (pbk), EUR 55.00.
Authors: Akhtar; Farhana
Pages: 478 - 479
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S003060532200028X
- Climate Ghosts: Migratory Species in the Anthropocene by Nancy Langston
(2021) 208 pp., Brandeis University Press, Waltham, USA. ISBN
978-1-68458-065-1 (pbk), USD 29.95.
Authors: Onyango; Vincent
Pages: 479 - 479
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000072
- Grants & opportunities
Pages: 480 - 480
PubDate: 2022-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605322000400
- Swayne's hartebeest in Ethiopia: population estimate, genetic variability
and competition with livestock
Authors: Tamrat; Misganaw, Atickem, Anagaw, Flagstad, Øystein, Fischer, Martha, Roos, Christian, Evangelista, Paul, Bekele, Afework, Stenseth, Nils Chr, Zinner, Dietmar
Pages: 336 - 344
Abstract: Swayne's hartebeest Alcelaphus buselaphus swaynei was once widely distributed in the Horn of Africa. By the early 20th century, however, it was extirpated across most of its range and is now limited to two relict populations in the Ethiopian Rift Valley and categorized as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. In this study, we estimated the size and genetic diversity of these two remaining populations, with a particular focus on competition with livestock. We used a total block count method for both Swayne's hartebeest and livestock population counts, and faecal samples for a population genetic analysis. We estimated the total population of Swayne's hartebeest to be 1,528, with 518 individuals in Senkele Swayne's Hartebeest Sanctuary and 1,010 individuals in Maze National Park. Livestock densities were 212 and 153 times those of Swayne's hartebeest in Senkele Swayne's Hartebeest Sanctuary and Maze National Park, respectively. Among 73 mitochondrial D-loop sequences (34 from Senkele Swayne's Hartebeest Sanctuary and 39 from Maze National Park), we found 22 haplotypes (Senkele 12, Maze 16, shared 6). Population genetic parameters suggest only weak sub-structuring between the two populations (FST = 0.164). Despite the positive population trends in both protected areas, the spatial overlap with livestock may lead to future population decline as a result of resource competition and disease transmission. We therefore recommend further translocation to other protected areas within the species’ former range.
PubDate: 2021-11-12
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605320000927
- Estimating forest antelope population densities using distance sampling
with camera traps
Authors: Amin; Rajan, Klair, Hannah, Wacher, Tim, Ndjassi, Constant, Fowler, Andrew, Olson, David, Bruce, Tom
Pages: 345 - 351
Abstract: Traditional transect survey methods for forest antelopes often underestimate density for common species and do not provide sufficient data for rarer species. The use of camera trapping as a survey tool for medium and large terrestrial mammals has become increasingly common, especially in forest habitats. Here, we applied the distance sampling method to images generated from camera-trap surveys in Dja Faunal Reserve, Cameroon, and used an estimate of the proportion of time animals are active to correct for negative bias in the density estimates from the 24-hour camera-trap survey datasets. We also used multiple covariate distance sampling with body weight as a covariate to estimate detection probabilities and densities of rarer species. These methods provide an effective tool for monitoring the status of individual species or a community of forest antelope species, information urgently needed for conservation planning and action.
PubDate: 2021-07-26
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605320001209
- A systematic survey of online trade: trade in Saiga antelope horn on
Russian-language websites
Authors: Roberts; David L., Mun, Katya, Milner-Gulland, E. J.
Pages: 352 - 359
Abstract: Trade in wildlife is increasingly moving online, which creates significant challenges for monitoring. Numerous reports have highlighted the extent of the trade but they rarely present a methodology to facilitate replication or any form of meta-analysis. Here we present a systematic approach to surveying online trade in wildlife that builds on the well-established systematic evidence review approach. We apply this approach to investigate the online trade in saiga antelope Saiga tatarica horns on Russian-language websites. Of the 419 advertisements, the majority (217, 52%) were from Ukraine, followed by Russia (122, 29%), and were largely offers to sell (254, 61%), and represented one-off advertisements. Trade was identified on 89 websites, with the majority being on classified ads websites (68, 76%), auction.violity.com being the most popular site (156, 37%). Prices varied significantly depending on the country and how the horn was being offered (i.e. by weight or length). It is clear that saiga horn is being traded over the internet, with Ukraine and Russia comprising c. 80% of advertisements on Russian-language websites. Individuals with single advertisements dominate, suggesting website fidelity, although website usage is country-specific, potentially reflecting domestic trade. This suggests country-specific interventions could be particularly effective. A systematic approach for investigating online wildlife trade provides a clear and transparent methodology, and, given data collection is resource-intensive, allows studies to be replicated so that trends can be identified. However, this is only possible if published studies report the methodology used.
PubDate: 2021-04-27
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605320001313
- Probable extirpation of the hog deer from China: implications for
conservation
Authors: Ding; Chenchen, Liu, Jie, Li, Chunwang, Jiang, Zhigang
Pages: 360 - 366
Abstract: The hog deer Axis porcinus formerly occurred in south-west China but has not been recorded there since 1965. To investigate the current status of the species in China, we conducted interviews, and transect and camera-trap surveys during October 2018–June 2020 to search for signs of hog deer across its historical range in the country. We interviewed 50 local inhabitants and surveyed 14 line transects in four counties of Lincang City, Yunnan Province. The camera traps were deployed in Nangunhe Nature Reserve (39.4 km of transects, 82 camera stations, 15,120 camera days) and Daxueshan Nature Reserve (41.1 km of transects, 68 camera stations, 13,554 camera days). We found no hog deer tracks and no hog deer were trapped by cameras. The floodplain grasslands preferred by hog deer along Nanting River have been transformed into agriculture plantations and human settlements. Our findings suggest that hog deer may have been extirpated from China, most likely as a result of habitat loss and overhunting. The conservation priorities for this species in China are the establishment of a protected area in the Nanting River watershed, restoration of habitat and reintroduction of individuals from range countries.
PubDate: 2021-11-02
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605321000016
- Tapirs in trouble: estimating Baird's tapir densities in the Sierra Madre
de Chiapas, Mexico
Authors: Rivero; Marina, de la Torre, J. Antonio, Camacho, Gamaliel, Naranjo, Eduardo J., Tobler, Mathias W., Jordan, Christopher A., Medellín, Rodrigo A., Reyna-Hurtado, Rafael
Pages: 373 - 382
Abstract: Spatial capture–recapture models have been widely used to estimate densities of species where individuals can be uniquely identified, but alternatives have been developed for estimation of densities for unmarked populations. In this study we used camera-trap records from 2018 to estimate densities of a species that does not always have individually identifiable marks, Baird's tapir Tapirus bairdii, in the Sierra Madre de Chiapas, southern Mexico. We compared the performance of the spatial capture–recapture model with spatial mark–resight and random encounter models. The density of Baird's tapir did not differ significantly between the three models. The estimate of density was highest using the random encounter model (26/100 km2, 95% CI 12–41) and lowest using the capture–recapture model (8/100 km2, 95% CI 4–16). The estimate from the spatial mark–resight model was 10/100 km2 (95% CI 8–14), which had the lowest coefficient of variation, indicating a higher precision than with the other models. Using a second set of camera-trap data, collected in 2015–2016, we created occupancy models and extrapolated density to areas with potential occupancy of Baird's tapir, to generate a population estimate for the whole Sierra Madre de Chiapas. Our findings indicate the need to strengthen, and possibly expand, the protected areas of southern Mexico and to develop an action plan to ensure the conservation of Baird's tapir.
PubDate: 2021-09-29
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605320001076
- Free-ranging dogs as a potential threat to Iranian mammals
Authors: Nayeri; Danial, Mohammadi, Alireza, Qashqaei, Ali T., Vanak, Abi Tamim, Gompper, Matthew E.
Pages: 383 - 389
Abstract: Free-ranging domestic dogs Canis familiaris threaten wildlife species through predation, hybridization, competition for resources, and by contributing to the transmission of pathogens. The impacts of predation may be problematic, but in many regions the interactions of free-ranging dogs and wildlife are poorly studied. To determine the extent of the impacts of attacks by free-ranging dogs on Iranian mammals, we reviewed nearly 2 decades of social and traditional media reports and the scientific literature to gather data from across the country. We identified 160 free-ranging dog attacks (79 from academic articles, 14 from social media, and 67 from a variety of news websites) from 22 of the country's 31 provinces. Attacks by dogs were reported on 17 species, including nine Carnivora, six Artiodactyla, one Rodentia, and one Lagomorpha species. Most of the reported attacks on carnivores were on felids, including the Asiatic cheetah Acinonyx jubatus (n = 19), Eurasian lynx Lynx lynx (n = 18), caracal Caracal caracal (n = 10) and Pallas's cat Otocolobus manul (n = 8). Attacks on Artiodactyla were primarily reported for goitered gazelle Gazella subgutturosa (n = 47). Most of these attacks occurred within or adjacent to protected areas (n = 116, 73%), suggesting that free-ranging dogs are one of the most important human-associated threats to wildlife species even in protected landscapes. The impact of free-ranging dogs may be hampering conservation, and therefore we suggest some practical policy guidance for managing the impacts of free-ranging dogs on threatened species.
PubDate: 2021-10-04
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605321000090
- Intact forests of the Hkakabo Razi Landscape are a hotspot of bat
diversity in South-east Asia
Authors: Bates; Paul J. J., Soisook, Pipat, Oo, Sai Sein Lin, Suarez-Rubio, Marcela, Pimsai, Awatsaya, Dejtaradol, Ariya, Renner, Swen C.
Pages: 390 - 395
Abstract: The Hkakabo Razi Landscape, in northern Kachin, Myanmar, is one of the largest remaining tracts of intact forest in South-east Asia. In 2016, we undertook a survey in its southern margins to assess bat diversity, distribution and ecology and evaluate the importance of the area for global bat conservation. Two collecting trips had taken place in the area in 1931 and 1933, with four bat species reported. We recorded 35 species, 18 of which are new for Kachin. One species, Murina hkakaboraziensis, was new to science and three, Megaerops niphanae, Phoniscus jagorii, Murina pluvialis, were new records for Myanmar. Our findings indicate high bat diversity in Hkakabo Razi; although it comprises only 1.7% of Myanmar's land area, it is home to 33.6% of its known bat species. This emphasizes Hkakabo Razi's importance for conserving increasingly threatened, forest-interior bats, especially in the families Kerivoulinae and Murininae. There is also a high diversity of other mammals and birds within the Hkakabo Razi Landscape, which supports its nomination as a World Heritage Site.
PubDate: 2021-04-28
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605320000630
- Female wanted for the world's rarest turtle: prioritizing areas where
Rafetus swinhoei may persist in the wild
Authors: Pham; Thong Van, Le Duc, Olivier, Bordes, Cédric, Leprince, Benjamin, Ducotterd, Charlotte, Zuklin, Tomas, Quang, Vinh Luu, Dinh, Duc Ha, Luiselli, Luca
Pages: 396 - 403
Abstract: The Yangtze giant softshell turtle Rafetus swinhoei is the rarest turtle species, with just two individuals known to be surviving, one male in a zoo in China and one individual recently identified as a female in the wild in Viet Nam. As the species is on the brink of extinction, it is an urgent priority to search for additional individuals in the wild, and for areas where it may still be present. Here, we analysed areas where the species may still occur, identified through interview surveys in Viet Nam. In addition, we introduced a novel system for evaluating the potential for occurrence of this rare and elusive freshwater turtle, using a conservation priority index. This index was based on three recorded variables: (1) probability of the species' presence based on interviews with local fishers, (2) degree of habitat alteration, and (3) fishing intensity, with the latter two based on experts’ evaluation of the sites where the species could potentially be present. There were at least 13 independent, reliable sightings in the 2010s, seven of which were in 2018–2019, indicating that R. swinhoei potentially persists in the wild. Although the species was confirmed at only one site, there are at least three more sites where it is likely to be present, and 13 sites of conservation interest. We provide a description of all sites where the species is potentially present, and a summary of relevant interviews. The Da River system has the highest number of recent sightings. We recommend that a research and conservation project be initiated urgently, and outline how such a project could be implemented.
PubDate: 2021-10-20
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605320000721
- The global magnitude and implications of legal and illegal wildlife trade
in China
Authors: Jiao; Yunbo, Lee, Tien Ming
Pages: 404 - 411
Abstract: China is one of the largest consumer markets in the international legal and illegal wildlife trade. An increasing demand for wildlife and wildlife products is threatening biodiversity, both within China and in other countries where wildlife destined for the Chinese market is being sourced. We analysed official data on legal imports of CITES-listed species in five vertebrate classes (mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds and fish), and on enforcement seizures of illegally traded wildlife, during 1997–2016. This is the first study that collates and analyses publicly available data on China's legal and illegal wildlife trade and considers a broad range of species. Specifically, we estimated the scale and scope of the legal and illegal wildlife trade, quantified the diversity of species involved, and identified the major trading partners, hotspots and routes associated with illegal trade. Our findings show that substantial quantities of wildlife have been extracted globally for the Chinese market: during 1997–2016 over 11.5 million whole-organism equivalents and 5 million kg of derivatives of legally traded wildlife, plus over 130,000 illegally traded animals (alive and dead) and a substantial amount of animal body parts and products, were imported into China. Although measures to reduce demand and alleviate poverty are crucial to curb unsustainable and illegal wildlife trade in the longer term, China's wildlife regulators and enforcers must take urgent measures to disrupt the supply chains from source to market.
PubDate: 2021-05-27
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605320000800
- Uncovering prevalence of pangolin consumption using a technique for
investigating sensitive behaviour
Authors: Olmedo; Alegria, Veríssimo, Diogo, Milner-Gulland, E.J., Hinsley, Amy, Dao, Huong Thi Thu, Challender, Daniel W.S.
Pages: 412 - 420
Abstract: Pangolins have been exploited throughout history but evidence points to population declines across parts of their ranges since the 1960s, especially in Asia. This is the result of overexploitation for local use and international trade and trafficking of their derivatives. The prevalence of the consumption of pangolin products has been estimated for different localities in Viet Nam but, considering that national legislation prohibits the purchase of pangolin products, previous research has not accounted for the potential for biased responses. In this study, we treat pangolin consumption as a sensitive behaviour and estimate consumption prevalence of pangolin meat, scales and wine (a whole pangolin or pangolin parts or fluids soaked or mixed in rice wine) in Ho Chi Minh City using a specialized questioning method, the unmatched count technique. We also characterize the demographics of consumers. Our results suggest there is active consumption of all three pangolin products, with a best-estimate prevalence of 7% of a representative sample of Ho Chi Minh City residents for pangolin meat, 10% for scales and 6% for wine. Our prevalence estimates exceed estimates from direct questions, providing evidence for the sensitivity of pangolin consumption. We compared our analysis of consumer characteristics with existing profiles of pangolin consumers and found substantial differences, suggesting that consumption occurs among broader demographic groups than previously described. Our findings suggest that efforts to reduce demand for pangolin consumption in Viet Nam should focus on a broader range of consumers than previously identified.
PubDate: 2021-04-07
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605320001040
- Occupancy patterns of prey species in a biological corridor and inferences
for tiger population connectivity between national parks in Bhutan
Authors: Letro; Letro, Fischer, Klaus, Duba, Dorji, Tandin, Tandin
Pages: 421 - 428
Abstract: Site occupancy models, accounting for imperfect detection and the influence of anthropogenic and ecological covariates, can indicate the status of species populations. They may thus be useful for exploring the suitability of landscapes such as biological corridors, to ensure population dispersal and connectivity. Using occupancy probability models of its principal prey species, we make inferences on landscape connectivity for the movement of the tiger Panthera tigris between protected areas in Bhutan. We used camera-trap data to assess the probability of site occupancy (Ψ) of the sambar Rusa unicolor, wild boar Sus scrofa and barking deer Muntiacus muntjak in biological corridor no. 8, which connects two national parks in central Bhutan. At least one prey species was recorded at 17 out of 26 trapping locations. The probability of site occupancy was highest for the barking deer (Ψ = 0.52 ± SE 0.09) followed by sambar (Ψ = 0.49 ± SE 0.03) and wild boar (Ψ = 0.45 ± SE 0.07). All three species had higher occupancy probability at lower altitudes. Sambar occupancy was greater farther from settlements and on steeper and/or south-facing slopes. Barking deer also had higher occupancy on south-facing slopes, and wild boar occurred mainly close to rivers. Our findings suggest that this biological corridor could facilitate dispersal of tigers. Protecting prey species, and minimizing anthropogenic disturbance and habitat fragmentation, are vital for tiger dispersal and thus functional connectivity amongst populations in this area.
PubDate: 2021-06-14
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605320000976
- Biological richness of Gunung Slamet, Central Java, and the need for its
protection
Authors: Devenish; Christian, Junaid, Achmad Ridha, , Andriansyah, Saryanthi, Ria, van Balen, S. (Bas), Kaprawi, Fajar, Aprianto, Ganjar Cahyo, Stanley, Richard C., Poole, Oliver, Owen, Andrew, Collar, N. J., Marsden, Stuart J.
Pages: 429 - 438
Abstract: Designating protected areas remains a core strategy in biodiversity conservation. Despite high endemism, montane forests across the island of Java are under-represented in Indonesia's protected area network. Here, we document the montane biodiversity of Gunung Slamet, an isolated volcano in Central Java, and provide evidence to support its increased protection. During September–December 2018, we surveyed multiple sites for birds, primates, terrestrial mammals, reptiles, amphibians and vegetation. Survey methods included transects, camera traps and targeted searches at six sites, at altitudes of 970–2,512 m. We used species distribution models for birds and mammals of conservation concern to identify priority areas for protection. We recorded 99 bird species (13 globally threatened), 15 mammals (five globally threatened) and 17 reptiles and amphibians (two endemic). Our species distribution models showed considerable cross-taxon congruence between important areas on Slamet's upper slopes, generally above 1,800 m. Particularly important were records of the endemic subspecies of the Endangered Javan laughingthrush Garrulax rufifrons slamatensis, not recorded in the wild since 1925, the Endangered Javan gibbon Hylobates moloch and Javan surili Presbytis comata, and the Vulnerable Javan lutung Trachypithecus auratus and Javan leopard Panthera pardus melas. Recent forest loss has been modest, at least 280 km2 of continuous forest remain above 800 m, and our surveys show that forest habitats are in good condition. However, the mountain is widely used by trappers and hunters. Given its importance for biodiversity conservation, we discuss different options for improving the protection status of Gunung Slamet, including designation as a National Park or Essential Ecosystem.
PubDate: 2021-07-27
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605320001222
- Status of a second viable population of the Critically Endangered
Delacour's langur in Viet Nam
Authors: Nguyen; Anh Tuan, Trinh-Dinh, Hoang, Le, Minh, Manh Ha, Nguyen
Pages: 439 - 441
Abstract: One of the three Critically Endangered and endemic primate species in Viet Nam, Delacour's langur Trachypithecus delacouri, is restricted to the north of the country. The largest remaining population is in Van Long Nature Reserve, Ninh Binh Province, and the second largest is in nearby Kim Bang Protection Forest, Ha Nam Province, with other populations believed to be too small for recovery. The population in Van Long has been well studied but the status of that of Kim Bang has not previously been adequately evaluated. To address this, a survey was conducted during 10 August–7 October 2018. In total, we recorded 13 groups comprising a total of at least 73 individuals, almost doubling the highest number reported in previous studies. We documented six new groups in Lien Son and Ba Sao communes in Kim Bang. Our findings indicate there is a high likelihood that Delacour's langur population in Kim Bang will recover and could be important for the long-term conservation of this Critically Endangered species. However, immediate and appropriate conservation measures need to be implemented to protect the population from major anthropogenic threats, namely poaching and habitat destruction, detected during our survey.
PubDate: 2021-11-03
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605321000326
- Intermediate levels of wood extraction may facilitate coexistence of an
endemic arboreal marsupial and Indigenous communities
Authors: González-Ancín; Héctor, Spínola, Manuel, Mora-Benavides, José M., Sáenz, Joel C., Paillacar, Alberto, Fontúrbel, Francisco E.
Pages: 442 - 450
Abstract: Land-use change is a major driver of biodiversity loss. Large-scale disturbances such as habitat loss, fragmentation and degradation are known to have negative consequences for native biota, but the effects of small-scale disturbances such as selective logging are less well known. We compared three sites with different regimes of selective logging performed by Indigenous communities in the South American temperate rainforest, to assess effects on the density and habitat selection patterns of the Near Threatened endemic arboreal marsupial Dromiciops gliroides. We used structured interviews to identify patterns of wood extraction, which was 0.22–2.55 m3 per ha per year. In the less disturbed site only two tree species were logged, in the intermediately disturbed sites eight species were logged at low intensity, and in the most disturbed site seven species were logged intensively. The site with intermediate disturbance had the highest fleshy-fruited plant diversity and fruit biomass values as a result of the proliferation of shade-intolerant plants. This site also had the highest density of D. gliroides. These findings are consistent with Connell's intermediate disturbance hypothesis, suggesting that coexistence of people with nature is possible if wood extraction volumes are moderate, increasing plant diversity. Indigenous communities have sustainably used natural resources for centuries, but current rates of land-use change are becoming a significant threat to both them and their natural resources.
PubDate: 2021-09-23
DOI: 10.1017/S003060532000109X
- Clinging to survival: Critically Endangered Chapman's pygmy chameleon
Rhampholeon chapmanorum persists in shrinking forest patches
Authors: Tolley; Krystal A., Tilbury, Colin R., da Silva, Jessica M., Brown, Gary, Chapeta, Yankho, Anderson, Christopher V.
Pages: 451 - 456
Abstract: The Critically Endangered Chapman's pygmy chameleon Rhampholeon chapmanorum is endemic to the low elevation rainforest of the Malawi Hills in southern Malawi. Much of this forest has been converted to agriculture and it was uncertain whether chameleon populations have persisted. We used current and historical satellite imagery to identify remaining forest patches and assess deforestation. We then surveyed forest patches for the presence of this chameleon, and assessed its genetic diversity and structure. We estimated that 80% of the forest has been destroyed since 1984, although we found extant populations of the chameleon in each of the patches surveyed. Differentiation of genetic structure was strong between populations, suggesting that gene flow has been impaired. Genetic diversity was not low, but this could be the result of a temporal lag as well as lack of sensitivity in the mitochondrial marker used. Overall, the impact of forest loss is assumed to have led to a large demographic decline, with forest fragmentation preventing gene flow.
PubDate: 2021-08-03
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605320000952
- Illegal settlement in the Babile Elephant Sanctuary is threatening the
resident elephant population
Authors: Neil; Emily, Greengrass, Elizabeth
Pages: 457 - 464
Abstract: The Babile Elephant Sanctuary in Ethiopia was established in 1970 specifically to protect its elephants Loxodonta africana. They were once part of a larger population that ranged in eastern Ethiopia and northern Somalia but that was largely extirpated during the 20th century. Since its establishment, the Sanctuary has experienced severe anthropogenic pressure, inadequate government support, and civil conflict. Mapping was undertaken to analyse the rate of human immigration into the Sanctuary in 2006, 2014 and 2017, as part of an assessment of the Sanctuary's effectiveness in protecting its resident elephant population and in mitigating anthropogenic pressures. From 2006 to 2017 the number of illegal houses in the Sanctuary increased from 18,000 to> 50,000, of which> 32,000 were in the area in which elephants range. This settlement, coupled with high demand for natural resources, has resulted in significant habitat destruction and could also have exacerbated human–elephant conflict. Elephant conservation and monitoring by the Born Free Foundation were challenging because of ethnic conflict; rural and political stability is required if efforts to protect wildlife are to be successful. Unless these issues are resolved and the integrity of the Sanctuary is restored, this elephant population will be extirpated in the near future.
PubDate: 2021-11-30
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605320001088
- Field surveys can improve predictions of habitat suitability for
reintroductions: a swift fox case study
Authors: Paraskevopoulou; Zoe, Shamon, Hila, Songer, Melissa, Ruxton, Graeme, McShea, William J.
Pages: 465 - 474
Abstract: Reintroductions are challenging, and success rates are low despite extensive planning and considerable investment of resources. Improving predictive models for reintroduction planning is critical for achieving successful outcomes. The IUCN Guidelines for Reintroductions and Other Conservation Translocations recommend that habitat suitability assessments account for abiotic and biotic factors specific to the species to be reintroduced and, where needed, include habitat quality variables. However, habitat assessments are often based on remotely-sensed or existing geographical data that do not always reliably represent habitat quality variables. We tested the contribution of ground-based habitat quality metrics to habitat suitability models using a case study of the swift fox Vulpes velox, a mesocarnivore species for which a reintroduction is planned. Field surveys for habitat quality included collection of data on the main threat to the swift fox (the coyote Canis latrans), and for swift fox prey species. Our findings demonstrated that the inclusion of habitat quality variables derived from field surveys yielded better fitted models and a 16% increase in estimates of suitable habitat. Models including field survey data and models based only on interpolated geographical and remotely-sensed data had little overlap (38%), demonstrating the significant impact that different models can have in determining appropriate locations for a reintroduction. We advocate that ground-based habitat metrics be included in habitat suitability assessments for reintroductions of mesocarnivores.
PubDate: 2021-10-07
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605320000964
- A systematic survey of online trade: trade in Saiga antelope horn on
Russian-language websites —CORRIGENDUM
Authors: Roberts; David L., Mun, Katya, Milner-Gulland, E. J.
Pages: 476 - 476
PubDate: 2021-06-17
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605321000867
- Biological richness of Gunung Slamet, Central Java, and the need for its
protection—CORRIGENDUM
Authors: Devenish; Christian, Junaid, Achmad Ridha, , Andriansyah, Saryanthi, Ria, van Balen, S. (Bas), Kaprawi, Fajar, Aprianto, Ganjar Cahyo, Stanley, Richard C., Poole, Oliver, Owen, Andrew, Collar, N. J., Marsden, Stuart J.
Pages: 477 - 477
PubDate: 2021-09-07
DOI: 10.1017/S0030605321001101
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