The utilization of trees by endangered primate species Javan slow loris (Nycticebus javanicus) in shade-grown coffee agroforestry of Central Java

Abstract

Although human intervention remains high, a shade-grown coffee agroforestry in Kemuning, Central Java still have important roles for biodiversity conservation. Among various fauna, the Javan slow loris (Nycticebus javanicus), a critically endangered species, can survive in this agroforestry system. The use of spatial method on shade-grown coffee agroforestry seems unusual. We aim to investigate the utilization of tree and other vegetation by Javan slow lorises in a shade-grown coffee agroforestry ecosystem in Kemuning Forest. We followed two individuals (male and female) of slow lorises from December 2018 until May 2019 using radio collar. We recorded both vertical and horizontal positions of each individual based on their position on trees at two spatial dimensions (vertical and horizontal). To explore whether lorises select certain tree species, we laid 275 plots (20×20m) in their habitat and using Chi-square test for the analysis. Our findings show that both male and female of Javan slow loris in shade-grown coffee agroforestry use different forest stratum for their activity. The female used 42.11% of their time to do exploratory activity in the outer part of the canopy, regardless the vertical position, and 43.76% in the middle part (vertical position) and the outer part (horizontal position) of the canopy. While the male mostly uses the inner part of the canopy (52.57%) and upper part of the canopy for feeding activity (64.37%). Both male (Chi-square test = 264.05, p < 0.05) and female (Chi-square test = 357.35, p < 0.05) lorises select tree species for their behavior. We provide here evidence of biodiversity conservation services by shade-grown coffee agroforestry practices in Indonesia. The intensity of coffee management under tropical trees seems does not impact significantly to the presence and behavior of slow loris, however precautionary measures to reduce poaching should be done as this endangered species threatened by illegal activity. Benefivial values from managing shade-grown coffee agroforestry for generating income for locals such as wildlife-friendly coffee production can also be alternative hand in hand to reduce poaching.