Mammal diversity and composition are not affected by certified timber extraction in Suriname

Abstract

Increasing knowledge of species occurrence and assemblage composition is crucial to uncover the impacts of human activities on biodiversity. Here we investigate the effects of certified selective logging on assemblages of medium- and large-sized mammals in central Suriname. Using camera traps set in logged and unlogged parts of two logging concessions, we estimated mammal richness and assemblage composition within them and compared the results to other sites across Suriname obtained from a literature search. Then, using Bayesian multi-species occupancy models, we investigated if selective logging affects the richness, composition, and probabilities of habitat use and detection of mammals in the study sites. We recorded 27 mammal species in total, of which four are threatened globally. The study areas were amongst the richest concerning mammalian diversity throughout Suriname in response to the larger sampling effort employed. However, assemblage composition was overall similar to other sites previously sampled in the country, with variation in species richness mainly driven by sampling effort. Species richness and assemblage composition were similar concerning logged and unlogged parts of the concessions. At the species level, only a minor influence was observed in the probabilities of detection and habitat use of mammals. Most species presented positive responses to logging status, i.e., increasing their detection and habitat use probabilities in logged sites. Therefore, we conclude that selective logging to the extent practiced in the managed sites may fulfill the criteria of sustainability. Due to the continuous nature of Suriname's landscape, which allows for a constant flow of species from managed to unmanaged sites, it may act as a buffer to hamper the secondary and indirect impacts of selective logging.