Showing papers in "Biodiversity and Conservation in 2000"
TL;DR: In this article, it is suggested that if the two approaches do not agree upon which of the independent variables are likely to be'significant' then the deductions must be subject to doubt.
Abstract: In many large-scale conservation or ecological problems where experiments are intractable or unethical, regression methods are used to attempt to gauge the impact of a set of nominally independent variables (X) upon a dependent variable (Y). Workers often want to assert that a given X has a major influence on Y, and so, by using this indirection to infer a probable causal relationship. There are two difficulties apart from the demonstrability issue itself: (1) multiple regression is plagued by collinear relationships in X; and (2) any regression is designed to produce a function that in some way minimizes the overall difference between the observed and ‘predicted’ Ys, which does not necessarily equate to determining probable influence in a multivariate setting. Problem (1) may be explored by comparing two avenues, one in which a single ‘best’ regression model is sought and the other where all possible regression models are considered contemporaneously. It is suggested that if the two approaches do not agree upon which of the independent variables are likely to be ‘significant’, then the deductions must be subject to doubt.
934 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, an ethnobotanical study was conducted within two Caicara communities (Ponta do Almada and Camburi beach, Sao Paulo State, Brazil), focusing on plant uses.
Abstract: Caicaras are native inhabitants of the Atlantic coast on southeastern Brazil, whose subsistence is based especially on agriculture and artisanal fishing. Because of their knowledge about the environment acquired through generations, Caicara people can play an important role in Atlantic Forest conservation. An ethnobotanical study was conducted within two Caicara communities (Ponta do Almada and Camburi beach, Sao Paulo State, Brazil), focusing on plant uses. In 102 interviews, 227 plant ethnospecies were quoted, mainly for food, medicine, handicraft and construction of houses and canoes. People from studied communities depend on the native vegetation for more than a half of the species known and used. Using diversity indices, plant uses are compared between studied communities and between gender and age categories within each community. We found quantitative differences in the knowledge about plants between gender categories for each kind of use (medicinal, food and handicrafts). Older and younger informants also have different knowledge about plants for handicraft and medicine, but not for edible plants.
273 citations
TL;DR: Threats to the subfamily Epinephelinae of the Serranidae (groupers), a commercially and ecologically important group of predatory fish which are heavily exploited throughout their range, are assessed.
Abstract: The marine environment has traditionally been considered to be resilient to human impacts. However, concern over growing threats to marine biodiversity has led to a renewed effort to assess and quantify risks to marine species. This study assesses threats to the subfamily Epinephelinae of the Serranidae (groupers), a commercially and ecologically important group of predatory fish which are heavily exploited throughout their range. Eighty-five tropical species of the subfamily are examined in detail and classified according to 1996 IUCN Red List categories. Thirty-seven species (43.5%) are considered Threatened, of which two (Cromileptes altivelis and Epinephelus akaara) are Endangered, and the remaining 35 are Vulnerable. Thirty-four species (40%) are listed as Lower Risk and do not appear to be under immediate threat. Fourteen species (16.5%) are Data Deficient. Most of the threatened species are wide ranging. Large range size and the production of abundant, dispersive offspring are characteristics of groupers that have previously been considered to make them unlikely candidates for extinction. However, rapidly intensifying fisheries employing habitat-destructive gears now encompass vast areas of the tropics, putting many species at risk. Members of the genera Epinephelus and Mycteroperca were found to be particularly at risk, probably due to their large body sizes, long life-span and late reproduction.
159 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a tool based on mark-recapture techniques is applied to the problem of detecting sites with low number of species due to lack of adequate in-site sampling and, (ii) species with small estimated areas due to poor spatial coverage of samples.
Abstract: In recent years, use of databases of the labels of specimens deposited in museums and herbaria is becoming increasingly common as a tool for addressing biodiversity conservation and management problems. These databases are often large in size and complex in structure, and their application to conservation deserves a wider appreciation of some of the biases, gaps and potential pitfalls common to them. In this paper, we discuss some of the problems associated with using such databases for obtaining lists of species for arbitrary sites, as well as for the estimation of the distribution area of single species. The possibility of obtaining these closely related variables using specimen databases is shown to be scale-dependent. A tool based on mark-recapture techniques is applied to the problem of: (i) detecting sites with low number of species due to lack of adequate in-site sampling and, (ii) species with small estimated areas due to poor spatial coverage of samples.
153 citations
TL;DR: It is recommended that justification for large carnivore conservation focus on the real philosophical and value orientated reasons rather than ecological justifications, and that boreal forest biodiversity is best conserved by specific actions designed to establish reserves or change forestry practices.
Abstract: Large carnivores are often used as focal species (indicators, umbrellas, flagships or keystones) in conservation strategies either aimed at conserving carnivores, the rest of the biodiversity that occupies their habitats, or both We evaluate their suitability for these roles in the context of boreal forest biodiversity conservation in the muti-use landscapes of Scandinavia The enormous conflicts, especially with livestock, that carnivores cause in these areas makes them very controversial flagships to the extent that it may affect rural people's attitudes to conservation in general Because of the broad habitat tolerance of large carnivores and their prey, and the difficulties in surveying carnivore numbers, they are very insensitive and impractical indicators of forest biodiversity This ability of large carnivores to thrive in industrial forests means that the many species that are sensitive to modern forestry will not fall under the umbrella of areas managed for large carnivores If large carnivores have a keystone function with respect to affecting the density of their ungulate prey it is likely to lead to even further conflicts with hunters who gain economic benefit from harvesting wild ungulates In other words, none of the classic `ecological' arguments are likely to help justify large carnivore conservation, and large carnivore conservation is unlikely to help conserve the rest of the boreal forest's biodiversity Based on these arguments we recommend that (1) justification for large carnivore conservation focus on the real philosophical and value orientated reasons rather than ecological justifications, (2) that this conservation should be brought about in practice by dedicated management programs that specifically address the conflicts caused by large carnivores, and (3) that boreal forest biodiversity is best conserved by specific actions designed to establish reserves or change forestry practices
144 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors proposed a reintroduction of traditional grazing of sheep and goats throughout ecological, cultural and economical measures, which would include guidelines and regulations, set out to boost an integrated rural policy.
Abstract: Protection of natural areas has caused the elimination of traditional grazing activity on many occasions. As a result, in Mediterranean ecosystems a loss of biodiversity is usually related to a decrease of grassland and grassland-bush mosaic areas. In order to establish relationships between land use and the relative importance of each type of habitat in terms of species richness and endemicity, the Font Roja Natural Park in Alicante Province (SE Iberian Peninsula) was studied. Four sites were selected representing the four different existing habitats: a wooded area (holm-oak forest), a dense shrubland, a dense grassland, and a grassland-shrubland mosaic area. In each site, the species composition of vegetation and dung beetle fauna were analysed. The results showed that the highest diversity and endemicity, for plants and beetles, were concentrated in the dense grasslands and the grassland-shrubland mosaic. Thus, controlled grazing activity of sheep and goats which maintained a diverse variegated landscape would favour the historical sustenance of the biodiversity of Mediterranean ecosystems, as that would allow a remarkable diversity of habitats with higher conservation levels of existing species richness and endemicity. Therefore, we propose a reintroduction of traditional grazing of sheep and goats throughout ecological, cultural and economical measures, which would include guidelines and regulations, set out to boost an integrated rural policy.
137 citations
TL;DR: A simple and cost-effective, field-based biodiversity monitoring system developed specifically for areas where ‘specialist staff’ is lacking and which promotes the participation of local people in the management, stimulates discussions about conservation amongst stakeholders and builds the capacity of park staff and communities in management skills.
Abstract: The achievements of initiatives to strengthen biodiversity conservation in developing countries may be difficult to assess, since most countries have no system for monitoring biodiversity. This paper describes a simple and cost-effective, field-based biodiversity monitoring system developed specifically for areas where 'specialist staff' is lacking. We discuss the preliminary lessons learned from protected areas in the Philippines. Whilst the monitoring system aims to identify trends in biodiversity and its uses so as to guide management action, it also promotes the participation of local people in the management, stimulates discussions about conservation amongst stakeholders and builds the capacity of park staff and communities in management skills. In addition, it seeks to provide people with direction regarding the aims of protected areas, and reinforces the consolidation of existing livelihoods through strengthening commu- nity-based resource management systems. The field methods are: (1) standardised recording of routine observations, (2) fixed point photographing, (3) line transect survey, and (4) focus group discussion. Both bio-physical and socio-economic data are used and given equal importance. The system can be sustained using locally available resources. The approach is useful in countries embarking on shared management of park resources with local communities, where rural people depend on use of natural ecosystems, and where the economic resources for park management are limited. We hope this paper will encourage other countries to develop their own biodiversity monitoring system, letting its development become a means for capacity building whilst at the same time supporting the creation of ownership.
133 citations
TL;DR: Differences in total game mass harvested may be explained by local resource depletion associated with age and size of the settlement, however, this relationship is confounded by the capacity of some villages to exploit distant hunting sites.
Abstract: Subsistence hunting among the Waimiri Atroari Indians in central Amazonia, Brazil, was studied from September 1993 to October 1994 to assess the current levels of resource exploitation. Hunting effort, harvesting yields and species composition of the hunt were recorded daily in five villages varying in number of people, location and age of the settlement. The Waimiri Atroari harvested a total of 3004 individuals of 41 species in one year. Lowland tapir (Tapirus terrestris), white-lipped peccary (Tayassu pecari), collared peccary (T. tajacu) and spider monkey (Ateles paniscus) represented 87% of the total yearly game weight. Sex ratios of spider monkeys killed were heavily biased towards females indicating a stronger hunting pressure on those individuals. Harvesting yields was proportional to hunting efforts indicating no evident game depletion in the study period. However, capture per unit of effort was significantly different among villages. Differences in total game mass harvested may be explained by local resource depletion associated with age and size of the settlement. However, this relationship is confounded by the capacity of some villages to exploit distant hunting sites. Data obtained in one village showed that harvest rates were higher in hunting sites located far from settlement indicating game depletion in hunting sites surrounding the village.
114 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigated bird species richness and relative abundance in one 6-km long section of live fences (LF) bordering a dirt road and in two 6km long sections of residual forest vegetation along a river (MR) and one permanent stream (BS).
Abstract: Fragmentation of the lowland tropical rain forest has resulted in loss of animal and plant species and isolation of remaining populations that puts them at risk. At Los Tuxtlas, Mexico, lowland rain forests are particularly diverse in the avian fauna they contain and while most of the forests have been fragmented by human activity, many of the fragments still harbor diverse assemblages of bird species. In these landscapes, linear strips of residual rain forest vegetation along streams as well as linear strips of vegetation fences (live fences) crossing the pastures might provide some connectivity to bird populations existed in forest fragments. We investigated bird species richness and relative abundance in one 6-km long section of live fences (LF) bordering a dirt road and in two 6-km long sections of residual forest vegetation along a river (MR) and one permanent stream (BS). We used point count procedures which resulted in the count of 2984 birds representing 133 species. At the LF site we detected 74% of the species, 72% at the BS site and 57% at the MR site. Only 38% of the species were common among sites. Neotropical migratory birds accounted for 34–41% of the species counted at all sites. While edge and open habitat birds accounted for 6–10% of the species and for 50% of the records at the three vegetation strips, about 90% of the species were forest birds. Distance to forest fragments and degree of disturbance of the vegetation seemed to negatively influence bird species presence at the BS and MR strips. Rarefaction analysis indicated that the LF strip was richer in species than the other two sites, but the occurrence of the three vegetation strips in the landscape seem to favor the presence of many more species. We discuss the value of these vegetation strips to birds as stepping stones in the fragmented landscape.
106 citations
TL;DR: Wang et al. as discussed by the authors reported that wildlife in the Himalayan region is still suffering from illegal hunting and trade even after China has enforced the China Wildlife Protection Law (CWPL).
Abstract: The Himalayan region of China, with its rich biodiversity, used to be important for hunting and collecting of medicinal plants. In the past decades, conservation attitudes and legislation for wildlife conservation have developed rapidly in China. Increasing numbers of species are listed in the state protection list and local protection lists. In the Himalayan region, the area of natural reserves is high accounting for 70% of total area of natural reserves in China. However, wildlife in Himalayan region is suffering from illegal hunting and trade even after China has enforced the China Wildlife Protection Law (CWPL). The illegal wildlife trade and smuggling across Sino-neighbouring country borders and illegal wildlife trade related to domestic use flourish in the region. Although domestic illegal trade has declined in the past ten years, international illegal trade and smuggling continue, and are even expanding, thereby threatening survival of many endangered species such as the Tibetan antelope (Pantholops hodgsoni), Giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) and Saker Falcon (Falco cherrug). Illegal wildlife trade in the region is attributed to four factors. First, the CWPL is still imperfect, especially concerning illegal trade and smuggling across borders. Second, CWPL is not fully enforced. Third, infrastructure in many nature reserves is undeveloped and human resources are lacking. Fourth, protection is hampered by differences in the laws of neighbouring countries, differences in penalties and in degrees of protection. Furthermore, national legislation is often not fully enforced in areas that are inhabited mainly by tribal and minority communities.
104 citations
TL;DR: Knowing about the complex pattern of species composition and distributions between and among topographic levels and river sites is important for the preservation of the diverse flora of the blackwater forests and for the creation of future conservation management plans and design of protected areas in this ecosystem that will maintain the biodiversity.
Abstract: Rivers in central Amazonia experience annual water-level fluctuations of up to 14 m, flooding vast areas of adjacent forest for periods ranging from a few to 270 days per year At different sites, variation in the duration and type of flooding results in a mosaic of habitats that includes lakes, grasslands, forests, and streams To study the effects of flood duration on plant species richness and floristic composition, two river margin sites were surveyed on the rivers Jau and Taruma-Mirim Both areas are seasonally flooded by blackwaters, and plots were made at different topographic levels (lower, middle and upper slopes) All woody plants with DBH > 5cm were inventoried in five 10 × 40 m plots in each of the three topographic levels, which varied in length of flood duration and mean water level Plant species richness did not vary significantly between topographic levels, but species composition varied substantially At both study sites, the species composition exhibited distinctive distribution patterns with respect to the three topographic levels and river site Differences in the distribution of dominant species in both sites probably relate to the ability of species to withstand seasonal flooding, although other edaphic factors associated with the topographic levels may also be important, especially for less-dominant, locally rare, and habitat generalist species Species composition overlap among topographic levels at the two sites was highly variable ranging from 15% to 43% Knowledge about the complex pattern of species composition and distributions between and among topographic levels and river sites is important for the preservation of the diverse flora of the blackwater forests and for the creation of future conservation management plans and design of protected areas in this ecosystem that will maintain the biodiversity
TL;DR: The Aljibe Mountains show high diversity values for different life forms and spatial scales (from community to region), and are rich in endemic species, and should be recognised as a relevant unit within the Mediterranean plant diversity hot spots.
Abstract: The Aljibe Mountains are located in the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula and have a remarkable biogeographical interest. The complete plant species list (trees, climbers, shrubs, perennial and annual herbs, ferns, lichens, bryophytes and macroscopic algae) was recorded in four 0.1 ha plots from each of the most representative community types (Quercus suber woodland, Q. canariensis forest, open heathland and Q. coccifera shrubland). Up to 119 plant species were found in total in the Q. suber woodland plot. The diversity of woody plants was analysed from 44 samples of cover (100 m line), and the herbaceous layer was explored in 200 quadrats (of 0.5 × 0.5 m). Three biodiversity components (species richness, endemism, and taxonomic singularity) were evaluated in both shrub and herbaceous layers. Open heathlands showed the highest richness of endemic species, both woody and herbaceous. The highest number of woody species was found in the evergreen Q. suber woodland, and of herbaceous species in the semi-deciduous Q. canariensis woodland. Taxonomic singularity was higher in Q. canariensis woodlands and Q. coccifera shrublands for woody species, but there were no significant differences in the herbaceous layer. Local species diversity of heathlands in this region resembles that of South African heathlands (fynbos), despite the obvious geographic and floristic distance, and contrasts with the low diversity of biogeographically closer, European temperate heathlands. The Aljibe Mountains show high diversity values for different life forms (from trees to mosses) and spatial scales (from community to region), and are rich in endemic species. Thus, this area should be recognised as a relevant unit within the Mediterranean plant diversity hot spots.
TL;DR: Evidently, the reduction in species richness, basal area and tree density in disturbed sites, with 57.6% of species rarity of this tropical evergreen forest, in secluded patches of Kolli hills, underlines conservation need to prevent species loss.
Abstract: Tree diversity (≥30 cm gbh) in undisturbed and human-impacted tropical evergreen forest sites was investigated in the Kolli hills, Eastern Ghats, India. Four 2-ha contiguous permanent plots were erected, one each in Perumakkai shola (site PS), Vengodai shola (VS), Kuzhivalavu shola (KS) and Mottukkadu shola (MS) at 1000, 1050, 1200 and 1250 m elevation, with increasing human disturbance, to evaluate the difference in tree species composition, stand structure and dynamics. This paper discusses the results of the first survey. A total of 3825 individuals and 78 species from 61 genera and 36 families were enumerated in the 8 ha area. Among the four 2-ha sites, species richness was greatest (58) in the undisturbed site PS and lowest (39) in the highly disturbed site MS. Shannon, Simpson, Hill diversity and evenness indexes revealed a progressive reduction in diversity with increasing disturbance. The asymptote species-area curves imply adequate site sampling. Tree density (1151 to 651 trees ha−2) and basal area (106 to 46.6 m2 ha−2) decreased from undisturbed to disturbed site, due to selective felling. Single species, Memecylon umbellatum dominated sites MS (39%) and VS (26%), while Nothopegia heyneana, Memecylon umbellatum and Diospyros ovalifolia were dominant in PS, and Meliosma simplicifolia, Myristica dactyloides and Phoebe wightii in KS. Based on species abundance, we classify the study area as Memecylon–Phoebe–Beilschmiedia association with Neolitsea and Myristica as codominants. Tree population structure revealed a step-wise decline in girth frequencies with increasing size class in undisturbed site PS, whereas tree density fell sharp (>50%) in medium girth class in the disturbed site MS. Population of the dominant species varied widely. The diversity values of this inventory are compared with similar studies in India and other tropical forests. Evidently, the reduction in species richness (by 52%), basal area (56%) and tree density (58%) in disturbed sites, with 57.6% of species rarity of this tropical evergreen forest, in secluded patches (‘sholas’) of Kolli hills, underlines conservation need to prevent species loss.
TL;DR: A first exploration of applications of ecological niche modeling and geographic distributional prediction to endangered species protection is developed, and application of this methodology to additional taxa and regions holds promise for diverse conservation applications.
Abstract: A first exploration of applications of ecological niche modeling and geographic distributional prediction to endangered species protection is developed. Foci of richness of endangered bird species are identified in coastal California and along the southern fringe of the United States. Species included on the Endangered Species List on the basis of peripheral populations inflate these concentrations considerably. Species without protection in the US National Park System are focused particularly in peninsular Florida. Application of this methodology to additional taxa and regions holds promise for diverse conservation applications.
TL;DR: Thirteen tropical montane cloud forests in Honduras and adjacent El Salvador were evaluated for species diversity and endemism in leaf litter inhabiting Curculionidae and Staphylinidae in June and August of 1994, finding the latter to be the best method for establishing conservation priorities in TMCF.
Abstract: Thirteen tropical montane cloud forests (TMCFs) in Honduras and adjacent El Salvador were evaluated for species diversity and endemism in leaf litter inhabiting Curculionidae (weevils) and Staphylinidae in June and August of 1994. Totals of 26,891 specimens representing 293 species of Curculionidae, and 7349 specimens representing 224 species of Staphylinidae, were collected. Regional endemism was high with 173 species (58.7% of total) of Curculionidae and 126 species (56.3% of total) of Staphylinidae, restricted to single sites. Measures of diversity (number of observed species [Sobs]; number of endemic species) and estimates of biodiversity (Chao 2, first and second order Jackknife and Bootstrap richness estimators) are given for each site for Curculionidae and Staphylinidae. Priority-areas analyses based on Sobs (‘Greedy’), Sobs, Chao 2, number of endemic species, site complementarity and higher taxonomic diversity (Curculionidae only) are presented. Weak or lack of correlation was noted between site area and site diversity for either Curculionidae or Staphylinidae. The optimum sequence for site conservation was determined based on Sobs (‘Greedy’). Four sites are identified as the highest conservation priorities; Parque Nacional Montecristo, P.N. La Muralla, P.N. Santa Barbara and P.N. Comayagua. Identification as high priority sites supports their designation as Parques Nacionales rather than the less diverse Reservas Biologias or Reservas Vidas Silvestres. While closely approximating performance of Sobs (‘Greedy’), no one of Sobs, number of endemics, Chao 2 or site complementarity give results equivalent to the optimum sequence based on Sobs (‘Greedy’) and the latter is concluded to be the best method for establishing conservation priorities in TMCF. Results of the analyses based on one of Curculionidae or Staphylinidae differ in the ordering of site priorities based on each of Sobs, Chao 2 or number of endemics at each site, with at best, weak positive correlations between results based on each taxon. Data from other taxa are necessary to determine if one of Curculionidae or Staphylinidae emerges as the better surrogate for general patterns of biodiversity in TMCF. Conservation strategies in Central America should emphasize the importance of TMCF particularly in view of high regional endemism. In formulating these strategies, consideration needs to be given to the preservation of many small regional preserves rather than fewer larger preserves. Data from inventories of other taxa should be included where available and all biological data should be integrated with social and cultural issues of regional importance.
TL;DR: In this article, the relationship between water chemistry and aquatic macroinvertebrate communities of 41 headwater streams were studied in the Vosges Mountains (N-E of France) in an attempt to assess the impact of acidification on macroinversebrate diversity.
Abstract: The relationships between water chemistry and aquatic macroinvertebrate communities of 41 headwater streams were studied in the Vosges Mountains (N-E of France) in an attempt to assess the impact of acidification on macroinvertebrate diversity. The taxa richness of macroinvertebrates decreased drastically in headwater streams which were characterized by low pH, low calcium and high aluminum content. All taxonomic groups were affected, but Molluscans, Crustaceans and Ephemeroptera disappeared totally from strongly acidified streams. Simple indices based on taxa richness such as the coefficient of community loss may provide accurate tools to quickly assess the impact of acidification on macroinvertebrate communities. Despite the reduction of atmospheric SO2 emissions, acidification of freshwater in the Vosges Mountains continues to affect streams which were believed in the past to constitute refuge biotopes for numerous species. Consequently, acidification represents a real threat for numerous invertebrates. This study arises the question of the evolution in the future of headwater stream ecosystems. Urgent decisions and interventions are required to preserve non-acidified streams and to restore impacted ecosystems while awaiting spontaneous recovery.
TL;DR: The stem density and species richness decreased with increased size classes of trees observed in the present study indicated good regeneration status, and population structure of juveniles and seedlings also reflects good regenerationstatus.
Abstract: Vegetation structure and species composition of tropical ecosystems were studied through nine transects at Veerapuli and Kalamalai reserve forests in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, India. Species diversity, dominance, species richness and evenness indices of plant communities and also population structure of woody plants were enumerated. A total of 244 species (183 genera and 76 families) were recorded. Species richness (number of species) were 82,142 and 96 species per 0.3 ha respectively for the study areas of low-elevation forest (LEF), mid-elevation forest (MEF) and high elevation forest (HEF). Species diversity indices were greater in MEF compared to the other two forests except juveniles. In contrast, greater dominance value indices were recorded in LEF than other forests. Density and basal area of the MEF were twice greater than the LEF, while HEF showed greater tree density and low basal area when compared to LEF. The stem density and species richness (number of species) decreased with increased size classes of trees observed in the present study indicated good regeneration status. Population structure of juveniles and seedlings also reflects good regeneration status. Terminalia paniculata (IVI of 99.9) and Hopea parviflora (IVI of 103.8) were dominant tree species respectively in LEF and MEF whereas in HEF Agrostistachys meeboldii (63.65), Cullenia excelsa (63.67) and Drypetes oblongifolia (39.67) share the dominance. Past damage (anthropogenic perturbation) may be one of the reasons for single species dominance in LEF and MEF. Occurrence of alien species such as Eupatorium odoratum and Ageratum conyzoides also indicated the past disturbance in LEF. The variations in plant diversity and population structure are largely due to anthropogenic perturbation and other abiotic factors.
TL;DR: Distribution patterns of plants mapped in the Distributiones Plantarum Africanum series and selected taxonomic monographs are analysed using the computer programme WORLDMAP and the results are discussed in relation to possible factors determining species richness and endemism and their likely conservation significance.
Abstract: Plant species richness and range-size rarity in Africa south of the Sahara is concentrated in centres of plant diversity and endemism. Distribution patterns of plants mapped in the Distributiones Plantarum Africanum series and selected taxonomic monographs are analysed using the computer programme WORLDMAP. The plants are divided into four groups: herbaceous geophytes, mesophytic herbs, light-demanding shrubs and woody genera. Each group has peaks of species richness and range-size rarity at locations different to the other groups. Herbaceous geophytes and mesophytic herbs have their peaks of species richness and range-size rarity in the same location, the western Cape for geophytes and the Crystal Mountain for mesophytic herbs, whereas light-demanding shrubs and woody genera have peaks in different places. The results are discussed in relation to possible factors determining species richness and endemism and their likely conservation significance.
TL;DR: It is suggested that productivity and habitat heterogeneity appear to contribute most to the high species richness found in UTR, which has the highest species richness of any stream in the Western Hemisphere.
Abstract: An understanding of factors that influence species richness of lotic insects is generally lacking. We present comparative data on aquatic insect species richness from several North American and other streams. Factors such as large sample numbers and drainage area (species area relationships) are not significant predictors of species richness across the streams we examined. We explore several hypotheses regarding the origins and maintenance of species richness using Upper Three Runs Creek (UTR), South Carolina, USA, as a reference stream. UTR has the highest species richness of any stream in the Western Hemisphere. Hypotheses examined included historical, regional and local processes such as: (1) Evolutionary time, (2) disturbance regime/environmental variability, (3) temperature/evolutionary-speed, (4) productivity, and (5) habitat heterogeneity. Of these hypotheses, we suggest that productivity and habitat heterogeneity appear to contribute most to the high species richness found in UTR. We believe that multidisciplinary analysis of other streams is necessary because without this crucial information our knowledge of, and desire to protect biodiversity in streams will be wanting.
TL;DR: Fruit-bodies of hypogeous fungi were sampled over two seasons across 136 forested study sites representing a stratified sample of the climatic, geological and topographic features of far south-eastern mainland Australia to develop statistical models based on various environmental attributes measured for each site.
Abstract: Fruit-bodies of hypogeous fungi were sampled over two seasons across 136 forested study sites representing a stratified sample of the climatic, geological and topographic features of far south-eastern mainland Australia. Two hundred and nine species, over three-quarters being undescribed, were recorded. Statistical models based on various environmental attributes measured for each site were developed for the occurrence of several common taxa. At a landscape scale, climatic factors such as mean minimum temperature of the coldest month and annual mean moisture index were important explanatory variables for most taxa examined, but the type of response varied. More locally, topographic position, soil fertility, time since last fire and micro-habitat structures such as the leaf litter layer and number of large fallen trees also influenced the distribution of taxa in different ways. A model was then developed for the number of fungal species occurring at each site. Important explanatory variables were type of substrate, topography and diversity of potential host eucalypt species. The utility of each model constructed needs evaluation by further sampling of hypogeous fungi. Possible implications of our findings for forest management are discussed. Further analyses of our existing data are also identified.
TL;DR: In this article, an alternative value system was proposed for expressing the universal values of nature that should motivate an Earth Charter and the goal of biodiversity protection, which emphasizes protecting processes rather than protecting objects, and which values nature for the creativity of its processes.
Abstract: While biodiversity protection has become a widely accepted goal of environmental protectionists, no such agreement exists regarding why it is important. Two, competing theories of natural value – here called ‘Economism’ and ‘Intrinsic Value Theory’ – are often cited to support the goal. Environmentalists, who have recently proposed the articulation of a universal ‘Earth Charter’ to express the shared values humans derive from nature, have cited both of these theories as support for biodivesity protection. Unfortunately these theories, which are expressed as polar opposites, do not work well together and the question arises: is there a shared value that humans place on nature? It is argued that these two value theories share four questionable assumptions: (1) a sharp distinction between ‘intrinsic’ and ‘instrumental’ value; (2) an entity orientation; (3) moral monism; and (4) placeless evaluation. If these four assumptions are denied, an alternative value system emerges which recognizes a continuum of ways humans value nature, values processes rather than only entities, is pluralistic, and values biodiversity in place. An alternative theory of value, which emphasizes protecting processes rather than protecting objects, and which values nature for the creativity of its processes, is proposed as a more attractive theory for expressing the universal values of nature that should motivate an Earth Charter and the goal of biodiversity protection.
TL;DR: It was found that among many orders most of the species covered in contributed papers are not presently considered threatened by IUCN, highlighting the need of assessing conservation priorities at least at continental level and of devoting more resources to research in tropical countries.
Abstract: Recent upsurge of interest in biological diversity requests that resources for conservation be allocated to taxonomic groups and geographic areas of greater priority, independent of the ‘attractiveness’ of individual species. The aim of this paper is to assess if contributed papers on four of the most important international conservation journals in the last ten years reflect our increasing concern for threatened mammals. Our results show that some orders receive disproportionally more attention than predicted by their absolute number and percentage of threatened species. The Nearctic and Palearctic Regions are far more studied than other like, for instance, the Oriental Region, which are badly neglected considering their higher rates of endangered and endemic mammals. Furthermore, it was found that among many orders most of the species covered in contributed papers are not presently considered threatened by IUCN. Our work highlights the need of assessing conservation priorities at least at continental level and of devoting more resources to research in tropical countries.
TL;DR: In this paper, the incidence of butterflies on British islands and their geographical (latitudinal) ranges are regressed on ecological and life history variables, including migration capacity, hostplant type (variety) and breeding-habitat range.
Abstract: The incidence of butterflies on British islands and their geographical (latitudinal) ranges are regressed on ecological and life history variables. The objective has been to investigate the contribution of individual variables and to incorporate information on phylogenetic links. The findings confirm the close relationship of species' incidence on islands with their geographical ranges on mainland Britain and that of species' geographical ranges with ecological variables, particularly migration capacity, hostplant type (variety) and breeding-habitat range. The results for island incidence considering phylogenetic links are virtually identical to those disregarding them. For geographical range, the results are similar. The key variable in each case is dispersal, scored in either one of two different ways. However, hostplant type takes precedence over breeding-habitat range when phylogenetic links are considered. Species categorized for upper and lower quartiles for geographical range form isolated clusters in the first two axes of a principal components analysis on a set of seven ecological variables. This result suggests the combined influence of a number of ecological variables on range size. Species with wide geographical ranges tend to have high migration indices, a wide variety of hostplants and ubiquitous hostplants, long flight periods and are often multi-brooded; those with narrow geographical ranges tend to have low migration indices, sparse and limited hostplant resources, short flight periods and are often univoltine. A number of life history variables are found to correlate significantly with geographical range, but account for only small amounts of variation. The lack of any association between range size and population abundance may well reflect the difficulty of obtaining adequate measures for abundance. However, we caution against expecting a strong correlation between range size and abundance.
TL;DR: In this article, a detailed field and modelling studies have been completed at different spatial scales for the endangered arboreal marsupial, Leadbeater's Possum (Gymnobelideus leadbeateri); a species virtually confined to the ash-type eucalypt forests in the Central Highlands of Victoria, south-eastern Australia.
Abstract: Detailed field and modelling studies have been completed at different spatial scales for the endangered arboreal marsupial, Leadbeater's Possum (Gymnobelideus leadbeateri); a species virtually confined to the ash-type eucalypt forests in the Central Highlands of Victoria, south-eastern Australia. These forests are also subject to considerable pressure to produce timber and paper products. The studies of Leadbeater's Possum highlighted the factors influencing the distribution and abundance of the species ranging from broad distribution patterns, the occupancy of habitat patches at the landscape scale, and the use of individual den sites and the quality of trees that provide food within particular stands. These scales correspond to the entire known range of the species, sub-populations within a metapopulation occupying an ensemble of patches at the landscape scale, and colonies occupying den trees in individual stands. Information on the factors influencing the distribution of Leadbeater's Possum at one spatial scale were found to be important for informing processes at another. For example, an understanding of the species‘ habitat requirements informed the spatial distribution of habitat patches at the landscape level which, in turn, gave insights into predicted metapopulation dynamics. Each spatial scale of ecological investigation of Leadbeater's Possum had a corresponding scale of forest management, and they included: virtually the entire ash-type eucalypt resource in the region, the location of large reserves, the design of corridors and retained patches within production forest landscapes, silvicultural practices employed in individual stands, and the retention of individual trees and clusters of trees on logged sites. This range of forest management scales, and the corresponding-scaled array of ecological studies, have particular implications for the conservation of Leadbeater's Possum. The results of investigations to date have revealed that conservation efforts must focus on ash-type eucalypt forests in the Central Highlands of Victoria because populations of Leadbeater's Possum are virtually confined to these areas. Within the broadscale limits of the distribution of the species, the long-term conservation of Leadbeater's Possum will not only be dependent on large reserves, but also intermediate-scale reserves and corridors within wood production areas, as well changed silvicultural practices to better provide suitable habitat on logged sites. While each strategy will make a contribution to the persistence of Leadbeater's Possum, it also has important limitations; an outcome which highlights the need for a multi-scale approach to attempts to conserve the species. Notably, the overaching implications for the design of an array of different conservation strategies for Leadbeater's Possum could not have been derived from any single study at a particular spatial scale. Thus, the case study on Leadbeater's Possum suggests that consideration of factors at a range of scales should be an integral part of management and conservation planning, not only for this species, but for wildlife per se.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors focused on plant species richness, taxonomic diversity, and endemism of the Sinai peninsula as a whole and Saint Catherine area in particular, and measured βT to represent the biotic change between different landforms in the St. Catherine area.
Abstract: This study focuses on plant species richness, taxonomic diversity, and endemism of the Sinai peninsula as a whole and Saint Catherine area in particular. Beta diversity was also measured using βT to represent the biotic change between different landforms in the St. Catherine area. The peninsula supports about 1285 species including the infraspecific taxa of which about 800 species (also including the infraspecific taxa) are recorded in the southern Sinai south of El-Tih Desert. The present study reveals that southern Sinai is more diverse as compared with the Sinai peninsula as a whole. Southern Sinai also supports more than the expected numbers of rare and very rare species (about 62%) and about 4.3% endemic species. Beta diversity between different landforms in the St. Catherine area reflect a large biotic change between slopes and terraces on the one hand and between terraces and ridges on the other. Finally, the study recommends appropriate management of the peninsula and more research for the management requirements of the numerous endemic and rare species in the Sinai peninsula.
TL;DR: In vitro-grown plants could be transferred to ex vitro conditions and a range of growth substrates were assessed for their efficacy in supporting ex vitro growth, with a view to developing longer-term strategies for the transfer and reintroduction of micropropagated P. scotica plants into natural habitats.
Abstract: A simple micropropagation method is reported for Primula scotica, a rare plant, endemic to the North of Scotland. The technique involves the clonal proliferation of seed-derived plantlets on either hormone free tissue culture medium or on medium containing benzyl amino purine and indole acetic acid. Average multiplication rates of 4–6 were obtained for plants grown on plant growth regulator supplemented medium. The micropropagation method was applied to four different clones of P. scotica and clonal differences were observed in relation to media type. Some plants from certain clones did display hyperhydricity, however, this was circumvented by using frequent sub-culturing intervals and transferring the plants to hormone-free medium. Plantlets rooted on both media types and displayed normal, true-to-type rosette morphology. The cultures did not callus and development proceeded via shoot and root production only. The in vitro-grown plants could be transferred to ex vitro conditions and a range of growth substrates were assessed for their efficacy in supporting ex vitro growth, with a view to developing longer-term strategies for the transfer and reintroduction of micropropagated P. scotica plants into natural habitats. The simple method described in this paper may offer the potential of being applied to other endangered Primula spp.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors carried out an inventory of the cactus species occurring in the Mier y Noriega region, where they developed an intensive method of botanical collecting; a total of 80 sites were sampled.
Abstract: We carried out an inventory of the cactus species occurring in the Mier y Noriega region. The study was conducted in a square-shaped area of approximately 2845 km 2 , located in the southeastern segment of the Chihuahuan Desert region, between 2300 0 2330 0 lat. N and 10000 0 10030 0 long. W, including parts of the states of Nuevo Leon, Tamaulipas, and San Luis Potosi, Mexico. In order to know the cactus diversity, we developed an intensive method of botanical collecting; a total of 80 sites were sampled. With 54 species recorded, of which 28 were new area records and 14 new state records, the Mier y Noriega region is considered moderately rich in cactus species. Cactus diversity is distributed unevenly in the area, and the greatest species concentration occurs in its southwestern portion. The analysis of geographical distribution of individual species showed that the highest proportion (82%) are endemic to the Chihuahuan Desert Region, six of them having extremely narrow distributions. In addition, 19 species are considered endangered. With the aid of a complementarity analysis, we propose a strategy for the optimal conservation of the species and their habitats.
TL;DR: In this paper, the status of forests and environmental problems related to forestry in Nepal are discussed and a critical review of the main environmental problems with prioritization within the forestry sector; thorough review of all forest related documents, strategies, development plans, programs, institutional arrangements, policies mentioned in the Master Plan for Forestry Sector Nepal of 1988, and other relevant documents.
Abstract: This paper provides information on the status of forests and environmental problems related to forestry in Nepal. It aims to integrate the conservation and sustainable management of forests as a part of environmental planning. A critical review of the main environmental problems with prioritization within the forestry sector; thorough review of all forest related documents, strategies, development plans, programs, institutional arrangements, policies mentioned in the Master Plan for Forestry Sector Nepal of 1988, and other relevant documents; identification of major gaps and constraints of forestry policy and plans and current practices of forest conservation and management have been done. The decline in forestry resources in Nepal took place in the past due to lack of appropriate policy to guide the legal, institutional and operational development for the forestry sector. Forestry policy in Nepal, in the past, was shaped by political and economic motives rather than ecological considerations. Policy formulation mechanisms exist in Nepal; however, there is an excessive delay in translating policies into legislation and then into operational rules and administrative orders. There is a need to implement the international obligations by transforming them into regulations in order to make them legally binding. The data to be generated in the coming years in the areas of forestry at both national and international levels suggest that we should revise the research priorities and strategies. Research to add value to the forest resource products has yet been neglected. More attention is required on regular monitoring and evaluation of the projects. A thorough evaluation of the programs and planning for the forestry sector in Nepal is urgently required to update the progress and revise the programs.
TL;DR: It is concluded that postmodernist thinking has had a significant negative impact on conservation science in Africa, largely by marginalising the central issue of human population pressure.
Abstract: In Africa, the movement away from traditional protectionist conservation to community-based approaches is partially related to postmodernist influences. Proposed transfrontier conservation areas will incorporate local communities, and a clearer understanding of the limitations of community-based conservation is thus needed. The sustainability of community-based conservation projects is questioned on economic and other grounds, and many African countries lack the prerequisites (ecological, demographic and sociological) for successful programmes. The romanticisation of pre-colonial societies gives undue weight to traditional systems of resource management, and we challenge the postmodernist notion that traditional peoples practised sustainable harvesting of natural resources. It is suggested that this will occur only under unlikely conditions of low human population density, lack of access to modern technology, and limited exposure to consumerism. In agriculture, postmodernists interpret the overstocking of livestock as a rational socioeconomic response, thus giving the practice unjustified legitimacy. The allied proposition that peasants enjoy a rich diversity of farming practices is largely unfounded, at least in some parts of Africa. We conclude that postmodernist thinking has had a significant negative impact on conservation science in Africa, largely by marginalising the central issue of human population pressure. Towards more effective African conservation, we suggest roles for the ecologist, for the social scientist, and for the donor community.
TL;DR: In this paper, a methodology based on multi-scale vegetation plots established across forest ecotones was proposed to detect, monitor, and predict plant migrations and plant diversity changes caused by climate change and other human activities.
Abstract: Improved sampling designs are needed to detect, monitor, and predict plant migrations and plant diversity changes caused by climate change and other human activities. We propose a methodology based on multi-scale vegetation plots established across forest ecotones which provide baseline data on patterns of plant diversity, invasions of exotic plant species, and plant migrations at landscape scales in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, USA. We established forty two 1000-m2 plots in relatively homogeneous forest types and the ecotones between them on 14 vegetation transects. We found that 64% of the variance in understory species distributions at landscape scales were described generally by gradients of elevation and under-canopy solar radiation. Superimposed on broad-scale climatic gradients are small-scale gradients characterized by patches of light, pockets of fertile soil, and zones of high soil moisture. Eighteen of the 42 plots contained at least one exotic species; monitoring exotic plant invasions provides a means to assess changes in native plant diversity and plant migrations. Plant species showed weak affinities to overstory vegetation types, with 43% of the plant species found in three or more vegetation types. Replicate transects along several environmental gradients may provide the means to monitor plant diversity and species migrations at landscape scales because: (1) ecotones may play crucial roles in expanding the geophysiological ranges of many plant species; (2) low affinities of understory species to overstory forest types may predispose vegetation types to be resilient to rapid environmental change; and (3) ecotones may help buffer plant species from extirpation and extinction.