Conservation Challenges Research Articles

Sustainability strategy for turtle conservation in Kelapa Dua Island, Kepulauan Seribu District, Jakarta, Indonesia

Abstract. Gulo GS, Tumuyu SS, Patria MP. 2024. Sustainability strategy for turtle conservation in Kelapa Dua Island, Kepulauan Seribu District, Jakarta, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 2307-2314. The background of this research stems from the excessive exploitation and shift from subsistence to commercial use that has caused a decline in turtle populations. Therefore, it is necessary to safeguard turtle populations within Indonesia's distinct marine habitats, particularly at SPTN (National Park Management) I, Kelapa Dua Island, Kepulauan Seribu, Jakarta, Indonesia. Addressing the challenges in turtle conservation, this study systematically collected data through expert interviews, providing in-depth insights into the conservation landscape. The research methodology includes data collection via expert interviews and subsequent analysis using the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) method, providing a strategic framework to enhance conservation outcomes. The results highlight the critical need for habitat protection, stakeholder involvement, and rigorous law enforcement. Based on the four alternative strategies that have been prepared, the S-T strategy approach has the highest score, namely 4, making it a priority strategy for sustainable turtle conservation on Kelapa Dua Island. The following strategic priorities are W-O strategy, S-O strategy and W-T strategy. This study's conclusion shows suitable strategies for research problems, such as advocation for habitat protection, active stakeholder involvement, and strict law enforcement to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of conservation initiatives.

A Comparative Study of Behaviour, Breeding and Conservation Status of Species of Sparrows Found in India: A Review

Sparrows (Passeridae) are small passerines found in human-modified environments worldwide. This review examines the behavior, breeding patterns, and conservation status of three sparrow species in India: House Sparrow (Passer domesticus), Eurasian Tree Sparrow (Passer montanus), and Chestnut-shouldered Petronia (Petronia xanthocollis). These species exhibit unique ecological niches and behaviors, from urban adaptability in House Sparrows to arboreal tendencies in Eurasian Tree Sparrows and sociable behaviors in Chestnut-shouldered Petronias. Sparrows face significant conservation challenges due to habitat loss, pollution, climate change, and urbanization. House Sparrows and Eurasian Tree Sparrows, although globally classified as "Least Concern," experience regional declines. Chestnut- shouldered Petronias are impacted by habitat fragmentation and degradation. Conservation efforts in India include nest box installations, public education, habitat restoration, and policy advocacy. The primary factors contributing to sparrow population declines are habitat degradation and reduced food availability, exacerbated by pollution and climate change. Effective conservation requires a holistic approach, integrating habitat preservation, pollution control, and community engagement. Continuous monitoring and adaptive management strategies are essential to mitigate these threats and ensure the long-term survival of sparrows, underscoring their ecological and cultural importance. Collaborative efforts among researchers, conservationists, and policymakers are crucial to safeguarding these species and their habitats.

Ecological determinants of occupancy of golden langur Trachypithecus geei and its population characteristics in India

Habitat loss and fragmentation significantly contribute to the population decline of endangered species and pose conservation challenges. The canopy-living primates are highly susceptible to such habitat loss or fragmentation. Golden langur is one such primate with limited occupancy. In the present study, we aimed to identify factors influencing the occurrence of the endangered golden langur which is confined to a narrow region of north-western Assam, India, and its population characteristics using an occupancy framework. Ten teams of 4–5 people walked 1772.11 km in 1363 grid cells of 50 ha in size. We constructed detection histories of the species for each grid from three replications. We obtained 740 detections of golden langurs and estimated the probability of occupancy to be 0.57 ± 0.04SE in Manas Biosphere Reserve (BR) and 0.69 ± 0.08SE in the southern fragments. The moist deciduous forests positively and rainfall negatively influenced the occupancy probability in Manas BR, while forest cover and canopy height positively influenced the occupancy of golden langurs in the southern fragments. The encounter rate of golden langur in Manas BR was 0.37 groups/km and 0.67 groups/km in the southern fragments. The mean group size of the multi-male multi-female groups was 11± 4 SD (10.71± 4.72 SD in Manas BR and 10.60 ± 3.81 SD in the southern fragments). The mean group size and composition did not vary between the two areas indicating the ability of the species to adapt to changing habitat conditions. Fragment size did not show any relation between the percent grid cells with the langur occurrence, encounter rate, and mean group size. The unique langur group count was multiplied by the mean group size and calculated the minimum population size of golden langurs in India to be 7396 langurs. Since golden langur is highly folivorous, their persistence depends on the availability of suitable habitats, thus, the management of moist deciduous forests and contiguity of the canopy is crucial to ensure their survival.

The crossroads of tradition and modern technology: integrative approaches to studying carnivores in low density ecosystems

The study of large carnivores in semi-arid ecosystems presents inherent challenges due to their low densities, extensive home ranges, and elusive nature. We explore the potential for the synthesis of traditional knowledge (i.e. art of tracking) and modern technology to address challenges in conservation and wildlife research in these challenging environments. Our research focuses on the African lion (Panthera leo) in the Central Kalahari region of Botswana as a model system to demonstrate the potential of this integrative approach. Combining GPS tracking and traditional San trackers’ expertise, we present two case studies: (1) the individual identification of lions via a combination of tracking and footprint analysis and (2) the monitoring of territorial behavior through a combination of GPS technology (i.e. GPS collars and handheld GPS devices) and non-invasive tracking. These approaches enhance our understanding of carnivore ecology as well as support conservation efforts by offering a non-invasive, cost-effective, and highly accurate means of monitoring populations. Our findings underscore the value of merging traditional tracking skills with contemporary analytical and technological developments to offer new insights into the ecology of carnivores in challenging environments. This approach not only improves data collection accuracy and efficiency but also fosters a deeper understanding of wildlife, ensuring the conservation and sustainable management of these species. Our work advocates for the inclusion of indigenous knowledge in conservation science, highlighting its relevance and applicability across various disciplines, thereby broadening the methodologies used to study wildlife, monitor populations, and inform conservation strategies.

Sea cucumber significance: Drying techniques and India's comprehensive status.

Sea cucumbers, members of the echinoderm class Holothuroidea, are marine invertebrates with ecological significance and substantial commercial value. With approximately 1700 species, these organisms contribute to marine ecosystems through nutrient cycling and face various threats, including overfishing and habitat loss. Despite their importance, they are extensively exploited for diverse applications, from seafood to pharmaceuticals. This study investigates sea cucumbers' nutritional profile and bioactive elements, emphasizing their role as sources of essential compounds with potential health benefits. The demand for sea cucumbers, especially in dried form, is significant, prompting exploration into various drying techniques. Examining the global trade in sea cucumbers highlights their economic importance and the conservation challenges they face. Conservation efforts, such as awareness campaigns and international collaboration, are evaluated as essential steps in combating illicit trade and promoting the sustainable stewardship of sea cucumber populations. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Around 1700 species of sea cucumbers were identified as vital ecological scavengers in the Holothuroidea class. High commercial value due to their health benefits, particularly their demonstrated inhibitory effect against various types of cancer. "Beche-de-mer" holds a 90% market share and is regarded as a luxury food item in Southeast Asian countries. Due to overexploitation, the species isclassified as Schedule I under the Wildlife Protection Act (WPA) in India, prompting the implementation of a blanket ban on their harvesting to ensure its conservation.

Embracing biodiversity: multispecies population genomics of leafless Bossiaea species shows novel taxa, population dynamics and conservation strategies

Leafless Bossiaea species are a unique group of plants endemic to Australia that present intriguing challenges in taxonomy and conservation because of their morphological simplicity and often small, disjunct populations. We employed whole genome reduced representation sequencing (DArTseq) to enhance our understanding of the population dynamics, diversity and taxonomy of leafless Bossiaea species. Our dataset comprised 52,539 single-nucleotide polymorphisms across 283 samples from 7 leafless Bossiaea species, including 6 listed threatened species. We examined population structure, phylogenetic relationships, kinship and gene flow within and among populations. On the basis of our population-genomic analyses, we propose recognition of the novel taxon Bossiaea vombata subsp. orientalis and a change in status from species (B. milesiae) to subspecies for B. fragrans subsp. milesiae. Additionally, we show extensive clonal reproduction across species and limited gene flow at distances of >1 km, shedding light on the challenges faced by these species. We advocate a coordinated approach to conservation, focusing on restoring self-sustaining populations and leveraging genetic rescue strategies. By addressing the population dynamics of multiple species simultaneously in taxonomically challenging lineages, we can make informed choices to safeguard biodiversity and evolutionary potential.

Crop use structures resource selection strategies for African elephants in a human-dominated landscape.

To conserve wide-ranging species in degraded landscapes, it is essential to understand how the behavior of animals changes in relation to the degree and composition of modification. Evidence suggests that large inter-individual variation exists in the propensity for use of degraded areas and may be driven by both behavioral and landscape factors. The use of cultivated lands by wildlife is of particular interest, given the importance of reducing human-wildlife conflicts and understanding how such areas can function as biodiversity buffers. African elephant space use can be highly influenced by human activity and the degree to which individuals crop-raid. We analyzed GPS data from 56 free-ranging elephants in the Serengeti-Mara Ecosystem using resource selection functions (RSFs) to assess how crop use may drive patterns of resource selection and space use within a population. We quantified drivers of similarity in resource selection across individuals using proximity analysis of individual RSF coefficients derived from random forest models. We found wide variation in RSF coefficient values between individuals indicating strongly differentiated resource selection strategies. Proximity assessment indicated the degree of crop use in the dry season, individual repeatability, and time spent in unprotected areas drove similarity in resource selection patterns. Crop selection was also spatially structured in relation to agricultural fragmentation. In areas with low fragmentation, elephants spent less time in crops and selected most strongly for crops further from protected area boundaries, but in areas of high fragmentation, elephants spent twice as much time in crops and selected most strongly for crops closer to the protected area boundary. Our results highlight how individual differences and landscape structure can shape use of agricultural landscapes. We discuss our findings in respect to the conservation challenges of human-elephant conflict and incorporating behavioral variation into human-wildlife coexistence efforts.

Navigating between Promises and Realities of Transdisciplinary Research for Environmental Conservation

Transdisciplinary approaches combining technical perspectives with qualitative insights from the social sciences and non-academic stakeholders have emerged as a promising way to address the complexity of current socioenvironmental crises. However, transdisciplinary incorporation of diverse interests, knowledge, and worldviews requires acknowledging and addressing inherent inequities. Our case study combines two complementary transdisciplinary studies, the first conducted by a biologist/ecologist being trained in inter- and transdisciplinary methods at the time of the study, applying a quick participatory diagnosis in a fishing community, while the second is conducted by a social scientist studying the research group itself. Our results allow an exploration of the challenges and possibilities of navigating from transdisciplinary ideals to practical implementation. Our findings highlight the importance of nurturing relationships built on care, reciprocity, and openness to address the power imbalances inherent in university-community participatory practices. We suggest that the community’s autonomy and agency can be preserved while actively engaging its members in the transdisciplinary process, alleviating power differences and fostering a collaborative and equitable transdisciplinary framework. Overall, we emphasize the significance of integrating participatory methods, critical reflexivity, and attention to power dynamics in realizing the potential of transdisciplinary approaches for addressing complex conservation challenges and fostering meaningful community engagement.

Climate change introduces threatened killer whale populations and conservation challenges to the Arctic.

The Arctic is the fastest-warming region on the planet, and the lengthening ice-free season is opening Arctic waters to sub-Arctic species such as the killer whale (Orcinus orca). As apex predators, killer whales can cause significant ecosystem-scale changes. Setting conservation priorities for killer whales and their Arctic prey species requires knowledge of their evolutionary history and demographic trajectory. Using whole-genome resequencing of 24 killer whales sampled in the northwest Atlantic, we first explored the population structure and demographic history of Arctic killer whales. To better understand the broader geographic relationship of these Arctic killer whales to other populations, we compared them to a globally sampled dataset. Finally, we assessed threats to Arctic killer whales due to anthropogenic harvest by reviewing the peer-reviewed and gray literature. We found that there are two highly genetically distinct, non-interbreeding populations of killer whales using the eastern Canadian Arctic. These populations appear to be as genetically different from each other as are ecotypes described elsewhere in the killer whale range; however, our data cannot speak to ecological differences between these populations. One population is newly identified as globally genetically distinct, and the second is genetically similar to individuals sampled from Greenland. The effective sizes of both populations recently declined, and both appear vulnerable to inbreeding and reduced adaptive potential. Our survey of human-caused mortalities suggests that harvest poses an ongoing threat to both populations. The dynamic Arctic environment complicates conservation and management efforts, with killer whales adding top-down pressure on Arctic food webs crucial to northern communities' social and economic well-being. While killer whales represent a conservation priority, they also complicate decisions surrounding wildlife conservation and resource management in the Arctic amid the effects of climate change.

Farmers' biodiversity knowledge improves natural enemy conservation in agricultural ecosystems

ContextIn the face of dual challenges of sustainable food production and biodiversity conservation, the knowledge gaps of farmers about biodiversity, pests, and their natural enemies can become a crucial barrier to adopting sustainable land management practices. ObjectiveThe study aimed to assess farmers' knowledge and understanding of crop pest and natural enemy diversity and their impacts, and whether the adoption of Climate-Smart or Conservation Agriculture (CSA here onwards) was associated with this knowledge. MethodsWe conducted questionnaire-based interviews and showed biodiversity images, including crop pests and beneficial insects, to understand farmers' knowledge of biodiversity on their farms. A comparison was drawn between farmers practising CSA and non-CSA farmers to understand the role of CSA in enhancing biodiversity knowledge. Results and conclusionsFarmers facing greater yield losses were aware of pests, but they were less knowledgeable about their natural enemies, and they used fewer conservation management practices. CSA farmers, however, showed more biodiversity knowledge, especially of natural enemies, and they employed a wider range of CS management practices. Farmers’ age, experience, education, and training were positively correlated with biodiversity knowledge, leading to better natural enemy conservation and pest management practices. SignificanceThe findings underscore the need for biodiversity-focused capacity building in sustainable agricultural programs, targeting less knowledgeable farming groups. It emphasises the crucial role of farmers' knowledge in developing sustainable and biodiversity-friendly food production systems.Africa, East Usambara Mountains, Food security, Biodiversity conservation, Invertebrates, Crop pests, Climate-Smart Agriculture, Farmer education.

Wetland restoration enhances habitat for an endangered bat, Eumops floridanus

Restoring lost or degraded wetlands is a major challenge in contemporary conservation. Understanding how wetland restoration and changes in hydrology affect wildlife is increasingly urgent for endangered species conservation. This is especially pertinent for the endangered Florida bonneted bat (Eumops floridanus), whose range is almost entirely contained within one of the world's most iconic wetland systems, the Greater Everglades Ecosystem. We investigated how E. floridanus may respond to future hydrological and vegetation changes associated with current and planned Everglades hydrologic restoration efforts. We conducted acoustic surveys at 194 random points stratified across a restoration gradient (no hydrologic restoration, partial hydrologic restoration, full hydrologic restoration, and reference). Using generalized linear mixed models, we determined the most important predictors explaining variation in bat activity and foraging likelihood. Positive associations between bat activity and several hydrologic variables expected to increase with restoration (hydroperiod, water depth, distance to canals, and extent of freshwater forested wetlands, ecologically intact reference areas, and zones with full hydrological restoration) suggest that foraging habitat for this species will likely benefit from hydrologic restoration both in the near term (immediate increases in hydroperiod and water depth) and in the longer term (as freshwater forested wetlands expand). Our results inform immediate management decisions for this species and suggest the benefits of restoration for wildlife adapted to historically longer hydroperiods and greater water depths, which are anticipated to increase with the gradual return of natural hydrological regimes.

Agro-tourism in Nepal: Assessment of economic, cultural, and environmental impact

Agro-tourism is a growing trend that combines agriculture and tourism to offer people a unique and sustainable experience. This review article explored the global trends, economic contributions, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability of agro-tourism in Nepal. By synthesizing existing literature and aligning it with the Nepalese context, the study provides valuable insights for strategic planning and policy formulation, fostering responsible and sustainable growth in this emerging industry. In the context of Nepal, where agriculture is a cornerstone of livelihoods, the economic contributions of agro-tourism, ranging from supplemental income generation to sustainable development, have been analyzed. The exploration extends to the cultural preservation and authenticity fostered by agro-tourism, as well as its impact on environmental sustainability. Despite the promising prospects, the study also presents the challenges faced in integrating agro-tourism in Nepal, proposing solutions to address economic dependency on agriculture, limited tourism contribution to GDP, cultural commodification concerns, environmental conservation challenges, tourism seasonal variability, and the need for government policy support.

Terrestrial wildlife as indicators of microplastic pollution in western Thailand.

Plastic pollution in terrestrial wildlife represents a new conservation challenge, with research in this area, especially within protected areas (PAs), being scant. This study documents the accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in terrestrial wildlife both inside and outside PAs in western Thailand. Carcasses of road-killed vertebrates in good condition, as well as live tadpoles, were collected to examine their exposure to plastic pollution. The digestive tracts of the vertebrate carcasses and the entire bodies of tadpoles were analyzed for MPs, which were identified if they measured over 50 µm. A total of 136 individuals from 48 vertebrate species were examined. The sample comprised snakes (44.12%), birds (11.03%), lizards (5.15%), tadpoles (32.25%), amphibians (5.88%), and mammals (1.47%). In total, 387 MPs were found in 44 species (91.67%), with an average occurrence of 3.25 ± 3.63 MPs per individual or 0.05 ± 0.08 MPs per gram of body weight. The quantities of MPs significantly varied among the animal groups, both in terms of number per individual (p < 0.05) and number per gram of body weight (p < 0.01). Furthermore, a significant difference in MP quantities was observed between specimens collected inside and outside PAs on an individual basis (p < 0.05), but not on a body weight basis (p = 0.07). Most MPs were fibers (77%), followed by fragments (22.22%), with only a minimal presence of film (0.52%) and foam (0.26%). Of all the MPs identified, 36.84% were confirmed as plastics or fibers made from natural materials, and 31.58% were plastics, including Polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), Polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), and polyester (PES). Additionally, fibers made of cotton, and those containing polyurethane (PU), rayon, PES, and combinations of rayon and PU, were identified. The quantities of MPs were significantly influenced by animal body weight, factors associated with human settlement/activity, and land use types. Our findings highlight the prevalence of plastic pollution in terrestrial vertebrates within Thai PAs. Further toxicological studies are required to establish plastic pollution standards. It is proposed that snakes, obtained from road kills, could serve as a non-invasive method for monitoring plastic pollution, thus acting as an indicator of the pollution threat to species within terrestrial ecosystems. There is an urgent need for the standardization of solid waste management at garbage dump sites in remote areas, especially within PAs. Conservation education focusing on MP occurrence, potential sources, and impacts could enhance awareness, thereby influencing changes in behaviors and attitudes toward plastic waste management at the household level.

Apace

Researching nonfiction writing about where you call home is one way of appreciating conservation challenges. Living at the edge of the Great North Woods in Maine, I have found this work to be enriched by daily dog walks that cumulatively mark changes across time. Structured as a seasonal cycle, this essay ponders an idiosyncratic collection of evidence of more-than-human comings and goings, witnessed on two feet, accompanied by four more, in the first two decades of the twenty-first century. By writing about encounters with wildlife at close range, I reflect on specific ways in which my reading and dog walking practices together inspire extensions of empathy toward the ineffable relations that structure nature–culture borderlands. Becoming attuned to the critters within and without, betwixt and between house and home through extensions of kinaesthetic empathy, my hope is to model the development of a posthuman ethos through developing a storied appreciation for the elusive, unnamed intimacies of nonhuman neighbourliness that include, but are not limited to, witnessing dying and death.

Glowing wonders: exploring the diversity and ecological significance of bioluminescent organisms in Brazil.

Bioluminescence, the emission of light by living organisms, is a captivating and widespread phenomenon with diverse ecological functions. This comprehensive review explores the biodiversity, mechanisms, ecological roles, and conservation challenges of bioluminescent organisms in Brazil, a country known for its vast and diverse ecosystems. From the enchanting glow of fireflies and glow-in-the-dark mushrooms to the mesmerizing displays of marine dinoflagellates and cnidarians, Brazil showcases a remarkable array of bioluminescent species. Understanding the biochemical mechanisms and enzymes involved in bioluminescence enhances our knowledge of their evolutionary adaptations and ecological functions. However, habitat loss, climate change, and photopollution pose significant threats to these bioluminescent organisms. Conservation measures, interdisciplinary collaborations, and responsible lighting practices are crucial for their survival. Future research should focus on identifying endemic species, studying environmental factors influencing bioluminescence, and developing effective conservation strategies. Through interdisciplinary collaborations, advanced technologies, and increased funding, Brazil can unravel the mysteries of its bioluminescent biodiversity, drive scientific advancements, and ensure the long-term preservation of these captivating organisms.

Conservation and conviviality in the American West

The emerging field of convivial conservation (CC) draws on the tradition of political ecology (PE) to present a “radical” alternative to contemporary environmentalisms, speaking to the challenges of conservation in the Anthropocene as well as the global ascent of reactionary populism. Building on previous work arguing for the ongoing value of dialogue between PE and the American West, I here develop a conversation between CC and another radical intervention, the collaborative conservation of the West’s so-called “radical center” (RC). Using the nexus of wolf–livestock conflict and public lands grazing, I first trace a genealogical history of western environmental politics before turning to CC as critical corrective to the shortcomings of the RC. Scholarship on the commons and commoning provides an analytical bridge and political toolkit for linking the empirics of place with the aspirational aims of conviviality, and naming and navigating on-the-ground obstacles to collaborative conservation efforts in the region. This dialogue in turn highlights deeply rooted tensions of capitalist political economy and questions of non/belonging rooted in settler colonialism—necessary regional engagements for building from polarized antagonism toward an alternative environmental politics of coexistence and conviviality.

Camera trapping in Southern Vietnam: unveiling relative abundance, activity patterns, and conservation challenges of globally threatened pangolins and small carnivores

Camera trapping in Southern Vietnam: unveiling relative abundance, activity patterns, and conservation challenges of globally threatened pangolins and small carnivores

The prioritisation of development projects and devaluation of cultural heritage: the case of material culture in Wolaita, southern Ethiopia

This study looks at the prioritisation of development projects and the consequential devaluation of cultural heritage in the case of the Kawo Amado Kella defensive wall in Wolaita, southern Ethiopia. The study region has several cultural, natural and combined world heritage sites, although the location is practically unknown on a regional and national level. The area is one of Ethiopia’s most culturally rich regions, and the wall was discovered at an ancient location near the Omo River. The Wolaita people live in the Omo River basin and have a rich cultural heritage and over time the defensive wall has suffered from various man-made and natural forces. This study focussed on the maintenance and conservation challenges of the Kawo Amado Kella defensive wall and used a qualitative ethnographic research approach with purposive sampling to understand the significance of the wall on a regional and national level as well as internationally. The results of the research are presented in this article.

Satellite tagging insights into the seasonal movements and behavior of Mediterranean spearfish (Tetrapturus belone, Istiophoridae)

The Mediterranean spearfish (Tetrapturus belone) is a highly migratory predator, also exploited by commercial and recreational fisheries although its catches are poorly reported. The fishing pressure on this species is currently unknown because catch and landing data are fragmentary. Furthermore, more ecological information (e.g. migratory movements) is needed to establish eventual management measures, and ICCAT has not examined the population status yet. Understanding species migratory movements is crucial for addressing conservation challenges and supporting management decisions. In this study we investigated the migratory movements, seasonal patterns, vertical behavior, and thermal preference of T. belone, with the aim to improve information on its ecology and behavior. Overall, six individuals were tagged in the Strait of Messina and Tyrrhenian Sea with pop-up satellite tags and their movements were mainly restricted to the central Mediterranean. Utilization distributions derived from geolocation revealed an overall and seasonal importance of the Tyrrhenian Sea and Strait of Sicily, as well as variability in winter habitat use. While the fish exhibited similar depth preference, spending the majority of time at depths ≤ 10 m, we observed that the Mediterranean spearfish is also able to perform sporadic deep dives below 200 m. Vertical movement showed a bimodal pattern common in other billfish species, characterized by occupation of shallower, warmer waters during the night and deeper, cooler waters during the day. This research increases knowledge on the migration ecology and habitat preference of T. belone which is important for management of this understudied species.

A meta‐analysis of the effects of anthropogenic disturbances on tropical mammal functional diversity

Abstract Understanding the processes that shape biological communities under a variety of perturbations is a central challenge in ecology and conservation. Mammals contribute to critical functional processes of an ecosystem, such as seed dispersal to maintain forest carbon stocks. The analysis of functional diversity, which measures the range and value of the ecological traits of organisms, provides critical information to understanding the link between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. A growing number of studies have investigated the effects of anthropogenic disturbances on mammalian functional diversity; however, their results are very heterogeneous. Here, we conduct a comprehensive meta‐analysis of the effects of such anthropogenic disturbances on mammalian functional diversity in the tropics. We highlight major trends and analyse the influence of the type of anthropogenic disturbance, subgroups, and the functional diversity index used/applied. Our results indicate a negative effect of anthropogenic disturbances on mammalian functional diversity, particularly on functional richness (FRic) and functional dispersion (FDis). Habitat isolation was the stressor with the strongest effect, while agriculture and urbanisation showed a positive link with functional diversity. These results indicate that anthropogenic disturbances not only affect taxonomic diversity, but also reduce the functional diversity of mammals, which is likely to affect ecosystem functioning and possibly ecosystem service provision.