Enhance Biodiversity Conservation Research Articles

Dynamic marine spatial planning for conservation and fisheries benefits

AbstractThe increasing global demand for marine resources raises concerns about sustainable resource management and biodiversity conservation. Spatial closures, such as marine protected areas, can be valuable tools for maintaining and restoring exploited populations. When these spatial closures adopt a dynamic nature being adapted to the changing environment, they can effectively account for factors such as shifting species distributions, which enhances their potential to achieve ecological and socio‐economic objectives. Here, we adapted a decision‐support tool (the software Marxan), typically used for selecting static and permanent areas, to produce management recommendations that integrate permanent and temporal closures to fisheries. Our aim was to compare the outputs of a static network of permanent no‐take reserves with four other dynamic scenarios, including permanent and temporal closures that account for seasonal variations in the populations of species. All scenarios prioritized sites for the conservation of one of the most valuable European fishing stocks, the Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus). Additionally, we considered 12 other commercially exploited species captured by the Norway lobster fishery. The assessed outputs included retained biomass, area extent, closure type (permanent and seasonal) and opportunity costs within each scenario. We observed that all dynamic scenarios required fewer management areas permanently closed than the static scenario. This resulted in a lower opportunity cost for fisheries but also a higher capacity for biodiversity conservation. Therefore, complementing permanent with temporal closures could enhance biodiversity conservation and fisheries management. The novel dynamic planning method presented here could be applicable to other species, ecosystems and socio‐economic contexts.

Role of Biodiversity and its Importance in Sustainable Development: A Comprehensive Review

Biodiversity, the variety of life on Earth, plays a crucial role in sustainable development by providing essential ecosystem services, supporting livelihoods, and fostering resilience to environmental changes. This comprehensive review explores the significance of biodiversity in sustainable development through an examination of its ecological, economic, and socio-cultural dimensions. The paper discusses the current state of global biodiversity, the drivers of biodiversity loss, and the consequences for ecosystems and human well-being. It also evaluates the role of biodiversity in key sectors such as agriculture, medicine, and tourism, highlighting the economic value derived from biodiversity. Furthermore, the review addresses policy frameworks and initiatives aimed at conserving and managing biodiversity, emphasizing the  importance of international cooperation and community engagement. Finally, future directions for research and action to enhance biodiversity conservation and promote sustainable development are proposed.

Variations in macrofaunal communities along sand physico-chemical gradient across the intertidal zones on island beaches

Island beaches, once mistakenly considered as 'ecological deserts', are actually unique ecosystems that support abundant macrofaunal communities. However, limited studies have examined the variations and determinants of macrofaunal communities across the intertidal zones on island beaches, which is crucial for shedding light on the underlying ecological processes and enhancing biodiversity conservation efforts. Here, we explored the variations in macrofaunal communities along sand physico-chemical gradient across four intertidal zones on nine representative beaches, within the largest land-bridge archipelago in eastern China. Our findings revealed that species richness, density, and Shannon-Wiener diversity of macrofaunal communities were notably higher in the lower intertidal zones, exhibiting a positive correlation with elevated levels of sand moisture (M), electrical conductivity (EC), available potassium (AK), and grain size (GS). Conversely, macrofaunal Simpson diversity displayed an inverse pattern, with heightened values observed in the vegetation zone. The Saprophagous, Predaceous, and Omnivorous groups of macrofaunal communities demonstrated an increase with higher levels of EC, AK, and M in the lower intertidal zones. Furthermore, Phytophagous group of macrofaunal communities tended to inhabit the vegetation zones characterized by elevated levels of sand total phosphorus (TP), total nitrogen (TN), and organic carbon (OC). Primarily, our findings indicate that sand nutrition, moisture, and salinity play pivotal roles in shaping the variations of macrofaunal communities on island beaches. These insights offer valuable perspectives into the holistic responses of macrofauna on island beaches to changes in sand physico-chemical properties, serving as a crucial theoretical foundation for the assessment, conservation, and restoration of island beaches.

Enhancing understanding of ecological niche and CSR strategies of woody plants in remnant forests: Exploring the impact of surrounding spatiotemporal urban expansion

Developing a deeper understanding of how plants respond to urbanization in urban remnant forests can enhance biodiversity conservation efforts. This study investigated woody plants in 120 sample plots located in 15 remnant patches and explored the impacts of spatiotemporal urban expansion on niche indicators and CSR (Competitive, Stress-tolerant, Ruderal) strategies of woody plants in Guiyang, China. Our analysis revealed that stress-tolerant strategies are the most prevalent across all sample sites. Additionally, road density reduced the light indicator values and abundance of C-strategies in shrub species. It also increased soil nutrition indicator values and the abundance of S-, C- and CS-strategies in adult trees, as well as S- and CR-strategies in shrub species. Moreover, urban expansion intensity decreased the abundance of CS-strategies in tree species and C-strategies in shrubs, but increased CR- and CSR- strategies in shrub species. Compound terrain complexity led to a decrease in soil nutrition and alkalinity indicator values, and S-strategies in shrubs, but an increase in the abundance of C-strategies and the extent of C-selection (%) of shrubs. Furthermore, the percentage of impervious surfaces increased soil humidity indicator values, but decreased most CSR types of woody plants. Leapfrog expansion type facilitates soil nutrition indicator values, while reducing the extent of C-selection (%). These findings indicate that the surrounding spatiotemporal urban expansion exerts pressure on plant niches and strategies within remnant forests, enabling adaptation to disturbances and stresses. Therefore, we strongly advocate for the consideration of managing urban expansion surrounding remnant forests as an essential component of biodiversity conservation efforts.

Collaborative fisheries research reveals reserve size and age determine efficacy across a network of marine protected areas

AbstractA variety of criteria may influence the efficacy of networks of marine protected areas (MPA) designed to enhance biodiversity conservation and provide fisheries benefits. Meta‐analyses have evaluated the influence of MPA attributes on abundance, biomass, and size structure of harvested species, reporting that MPA size, age, depth, and connectivity influence the strength of MPA responses. However, few empirical MPA evaluation studies have used consistent sampling methodology across multiple MPAs and years. Our collaborative fisheries research program systematically sampled 12 no‐take or highly protective limited‐take MPAs and paired fished reference areas across a network spanning 1100 km of coastline to evaluate the factors driving MPA efficacy across a large geographic region. We found that increased size and age consistently contributed to increased fish catch, biomass, and positive species responses inside MPAs, while accounting for factors such as latitude, primary productivity, and distance to the nearest MPA. Our study provides a model framework to collaboratively engage diverse stakeholders in fisheries research and provide high‐quality data to assess the success of conservation strategies.

Sustainable development and biological wealth

This article explores the important relationship between biodiversity and socio-economic dynamics. Through scientific and theoretical analysis, the author explores the multifaceted impact of biodiversity on various aspects of society and economy. By exploring the complex interplay between ecological systems and human activities, the paper illuminates the profound effects of biodiversity loss or conservation efforts on livelihoods, industry, and global sustainability. In addition, the paper provides valuable insights into potential strategies for enhancing biodiversity conservation while promoting socio-economic development. This comprehensive review contributes greatly to the ongoing debate about the importance of biodiversity conservation for the well-being of present and future generations.

ASSESSING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION STRATEGIES IN NIGERIA: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

This paper thoroughly examines biodiversity conservation strategies in Nigeria, delving into the intricate relationship between the nation's rich biodiversity and the efforts to preserve it. The study is anchored in the context of Nigeria's diverse ecosystems, characterized by an extensive array of flora and fauna, which are under increasing threat from human activities and environmental changes. The primary aim of this research is to assess the effectiveness of existing biodiversity conservation strategies within Nigeria, considering their ecological, economic, and cultural dimensions. Employing a comprehensive literature review methodology, the paper systematically analyzes various conservation strategies, including legal and policy frameworks, community-based initiatives, the role of non-governmental organizations, and the impact of technological innovations and educational programs. This approach facilitates a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted nature of conservation efforts and their outcomes in Nigeria. The findings reveal a complex picture: while some strategies have yielded positive results, others face challenges in implementation and effectiveness. The study identifies key areas for improvement, such as the need for more robust policy enforcement, greater community engagement, and the integration of advanced technologies in conservation practices. Additionally, it underscores the importance of adaptive strategies in the face of climate change and other evolving environmental threats. In conclusion, the paper recommends a multi-dimensional approach to enhance biodiversity conservation in Nigeria. This approach should encompass strengthening legal frameworks, fostering community participation, leveraging technological advancements, and promoting environmental education and awareness. These recommendations aim to bolster Nigeria's conservation efforts, contributing to both national and global biodiversity preservation goals.
 The study's insights and strategic proposals offer valuable guidance for conservationists, policymakers, and stakeholders, emphasizing the global significance of Nigeria's biodiversity conservation.
 Keywords: Biodiversity Conservation, Community Engagement, Technological Innovation, Climate Change, Nigeria.

Connectivity value of Atlantic forest fragments: pathways towards enhancing biodiversity conservation

Connectivity value of Atlantic forest fragments: pathways towards enhancing biodiversity conservation

Enhancing biodiversity conservation and monitoring in protected areas through efficient data management

A scientifically informed approach to decision-making is key to ensuring the sustainable management of ecosystems, especially in the light of increasing human pressure on habitats and species. Protected areas, with their long-term institutional mandate for biodiversity conservation, play an important role as data providers, for example, through the long-term monitoring of natural resources. However, poor data management often limits the use and reuse of this wealth of information. In this paper, we share lessons learned in managing long-term data from the Italian Alpine national parks. Our analysis and examples focus on specific issues faced by managers of protected areas, which partially differ from those faced by academic researchers, predominantly owing to different mission, governance, and temporal perspectives. Rigorous data quality control, the use of appropriate data management tools, and acquisition of the necessary skills remain the main obstacles. Common protocols for data collection offer great opportunities for the future, and complete recovery and documentation of time series is an urgent priority. Notably, before data can be shared, protected areas should improve their data management systems, a task that can be achieved only with adequate resources and a long-term vision. We suggest strategies that protected areas, funding agencies, and the scientific community can embrace to address these problems. The added value of our work lies in promoting engagement with managers of protected areas and in reporting and analysing their concrete requirements and problems, thereby contributing to the ongoing discussion on data management and sharing through a bottom-up approach.

Plant-Plant Interdependence and Mutualism Interactions in Heterogeneous Ecosystems still hide a lot of secrets

Introduction Heterogeneous ecosystems, such as tropical forests, serve as vital reservoirs of biodiversity, harboring a myriad of plant species. Within these ecosystems, plants not only interact with their environment and other living beings such as fungi and bacteria, but also engage in intricate relationships with one another. Plant-plant interactions play a crucial role in shaping the structure, dynamics, and resilience of these ecosystems. These interactions encompass various aspects, the most important is the cooperative and mutualistic relationships. In this editorial, we explore the significance of these mutualistic interactions and highlight the pressing need for further research to unlock their full potential.        Plant species can facilitate each other's growth through interactions such as nurse-plant relationships. Certain plant species act as nurse plants by providing shade, shelter, or improved microclimatic conditions for the establishment and growth of other plants. This facilitation allows less competitive or more sensitive species to thrive in challenging or disturbed environments. The nurse plants create a more favorable environment by reducing competition, protecting against herbivory, or enhancing water availability. In forest ecosystems, whether they are deciduous forests (Bartkowicz and Paluch, 2019) or tropical forests (Ntawuhiganayo et al., 2020), there is a fascinating phenomenon where shade-intolerant plant species play a crucial role. These species form a canopy that offers shade and protection for shade-tolerant plant species. The shade-intolerant plants benefit from the increased competition for light, while the shade-tolerant plants benefit from reduced light intensity and lower temperatures. This mutualistic interaction allows both types of plants to coexist and thrive. Understanding these interactions can help us to identify and to utilize the potential of nurse plants to restore degraded ecosystems or to enhance biodiversity conservation efforts. Additionally, further research is needed to explore the specific mechanisms and ecological implications of these facilitative interactions, particularly in different ecosystems and under changing environmental conditions.        Belowground interactions between plant roots can play a crucial role in nutrient acquisition and plant growth. Some plant species form mycorrhizal associations where fungal hyphae extend the nutrient-absorbing capacity of roots, benefiting both plants involved. In addition, certain plants have been shown to share nutrients through mycorrhizal hyphae, allowing them to support each other in nutrient-limited conditions. Recently, it was found that the healthy neighboring plants connected through the common mycorrhizal networks showed increased disease resistance and the activation of various defensive enzymes and genes (Jung et al., 2012). Furthermore, some studies draw parallels between the fungal mycelia of mycorrhizae, which facilitate communication between trees in a forest, and social networks or neural networks (Gorzelak et al., 2015). This suggests that the mycorrhizal networks can serve as an underground communication conduit, allowing plants to transfer disease resistance and defense signals to neighboring plants before they are attacked. Exploring the intricate networks of mycorrhizal associations and root provides opportunities to enhance sustainable agricultural practices, ecological restoration efforts, and plant community management.        In addition, plant species can interact in ways that promote nutrient cycling within ecosystems. They can form specialized root systems that enhance nutrient uptake and make nutrients accessible to neighboring plants. For instance, in nitrogen-limited environments, such as tropical rainforests, symbiotic nitrogen-fixing trees can efficiently capture and convert atmospheric nitrogen into usable forms through specialized root nodules. (Menge and Chazdon, 2016). By doing so, they create a local nitrogen source that can benefit neighboring non-nitrogen-fixing plants. This mutualistic interaction allows nitrogen-fixing and non-nitrogen-fixing plants to coexist and thrive by increasing nitrogen availability. Furthermore, this beneficial plant-plant association can occur over time; the passage of a nitrogen-fixing plants from one plot, forms a nitrogen-rich microenvironment for the subsequent crop. This sequential association allows plants to benefit from the nitrogen released by the preceding species. This type of beneficial plant-plant relationship has long been utilized by humans in the form of crop rotation. However, in complex and natural ecosystems such as tropical and mediterranean forests, the investigation of such associations is often overlooked, despite their potential significant role in maintaining biodiversity and the functioning of natural ecosystems.        Although allelopathy can lead to adverse effects on nearby plants, it also offers the potential for mutually beneficial interactions in certain cases. Some plant species release chemicals that suppress the growth of competing plants but have a positive effect on the growth of other plant species. This can create a mutualistic relationship where the allelopathic plant provides a competitive advantage to the beneficiary plant. One example is the Juglans nigra tree, which produces the juglone[1]. It is toxic to many plant species and can inhibit their growth or even cause their death. However, there are certain plant species, such as the Asimina triloba, that are allelopathically tolerant to juglone (Mosquera-Losada and Prabhu, 2019). These tolerant plants can thrive in the presence of J. nigra trees and may even benefit from the suppression of competing plants, allowing them to occupy niches that would otherwise be occupied by other species. This demonstrates how allelopathy can influence plant interactions and shape the composition of plant communities. Chemical Signaling can play another role in plant cooperation, in certain cases, plant species may cooperate to defend against herbivores or environmental stresses. They can emit chemical signals that alert neighboring plants to the presence of herbivores, triggering defense mechanisms in those plants. For example, in temperate forests, Betula pubescens are known to release methyl jasmonate when attacked by herbivores. Methyl jasmonate is a signaling molecule that can induce defensive responses in neighboring plants, even of different species. When the nearby plants sense the methyl jasmonate, they activate their own chemical defenses, making them less susceptible to herbivore damage (Benevenuto et al., 2020). Further research in this field is essential to unravel the intricacies of these interactions, identify key chemical compounds involved, and assess their ecological consequences in diverse ecosystems. By unraveling the mechanisms and ecological implications of allelopathy and chemical signaling, we can gain a deeper understanding of plant community dynamics and potentially apply this knowledge to enhance biodiversity conservation efforts and sustainable agricultural practices.        In this editorial, we have highlighted the fascinating and complex nature of beneficial plant-plant interactions. These interactions hold tremendous potential, yet our understanding of their underlying mechanisms remains limited. The nature, triggers, outcomes, and environmental factors influencing these interactions are still poorly understood, hampering their practical application in various agricultural and reforestation systems. Nonetheless, these interactions serve as vital threads that intertwine and shape the diverse fabric of heterogeneous ecosystems. Recognizing the significance of plant-plant interactions and their implications, it is crucial to invest in further research. By delving into these intricate relationships, we can unlock the secrets that lie within, fostering a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness and complexity of life within forests and other natural landscapes.   [1] Juglone is an organic compound with the molecular formula C10H6O3.

More insect species are supported by green roofs near public gardens

AbstractRapid urbanization is among the factors that decrease insect diversity. However, by offering suitable habitats, green roofs could lessen this adverse effect. Certain factors, like a nearby public garden, could be useful predictor variables to analyze to what extent green roofs can support insect communities. The study aimed to measure the insect diversity on intensive green roofs located near public gardens and on more isolated green roofs, within an urban setting. Insect species richness, abundance, and assemblages on the green roofs near public gardens differed from those on isolated green roofs. Results indicate that green roofs near public gardens will host more species, especially pollinators, consequently lessening urbanization’s negative effect. To properly understand how landscape factors impact insect communities on green roofs, future studies on green roofs’ biodiversity should consider public gardens and their influence on urban biodiversity.Implications for insect conservationThe planning and establishment of a green roof near public gardens would probably enhance biodiversity conservation in an urban setting.

Co-management brings hope for effective biodiversity conservation and socio-economic development in Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve in Malawi

Co-management has been widely promoted in protected area management on the premise that it may simultaneously enhance biodiversity conservation outcomes and improve livelihoods of the park-border communities. However, the success of this management approach remains a growing debate raising the question of its effectiveness. To contribute to this debate, we used local community perceptions and secondary ecological data to assess the extent to which co-management has effectively contributed to biodiversity conservation and socio-economic development outcomes in the Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve. Face-to-face individual interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire were used to collect data on the perceptions of co-management from 160 purposively selected heads of households. A desk study was used to collect data on trends in animal populations, animal mortality, and prohibited activities including incidences of poaching for the past 30 years (pre-and post-introduction of co-management). Results showed that local communities have positive perceptions of the conservation work in the Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve. Further, there was an improved people-park relationship and a recovery of animal populations in the reserve after the introduction of co-management. These findings point to the success of co-management in the area. However, misunderstandings over revenue sharing were still a thorny issue, somehow creating mistrust between parties. We concluded that while it may still be early to achieve more demonstrable conservation outcomes, co-management appears to bring hope for effective biodiversity conservation and socio-economic development in the Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve. Participatory evaluation of co-management involving key stakeholders is recommended in the Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve based on the findings of this study and lessons learnt over the years.

Conservation benefit-sharing mechanisms and their effectiveness in the Greater Serengeti Ecosystem: local communities’ perspectives

Benefit-sharing mechanisms have been instrumental in securing the support of local communities living on the edge of protected areas to implement protected area goals and enhance biodiversity conservation outcomes. Understanding the acceptability of the types of benefit provided among diverse communities is crucial for co-designing benefit-sharing approaches that accommodate local perspectives. Here, we used quasi-structured questionnaires and focus group discussions (FGD) to assess the acceptance of the types of benefit received by the communities in the Greater Serengeti Ecosystem (GSE) in Tanzania and the effectiveness of the benefits in securing community support for conservation reserves. We found that the categories of social service provision, livelihood support, and employment described all the benefits provided across conservation institutions operating in the GSE. However, the types of benefit within these categories varied significantly among conservation institutions, in terms of level and frequency of benefits received by communities. Overall, student scholarships were highly rated by respondents as the most satisfying benefit received. Respondents who were dissatisfied with the benefits received thought that the benefits did not compensate for the high costs arising from wildlife incursions onto their land. Communities’ acceptance of the benefits received varied greatly among villages, but only a small proportion of pooled respondents (22%) were willing to support the existence of a protected area without benefit. This study suggests that local people are willing to support conservation outcomes but require conservation institutions to give greater consideration to the costs incurred by communities, their livelihood needs, and access to natural resources or other benefits. We recommend that benefit-sharing be tailored to the local circumstances and cultures of people living close to protected areas, particularly communities expressing more negative views, to ensure adequate and appropriate compensation is provided.

The use of information technology in ecology across different countries

This article explores the role of Information Technology (IT) in the field of ecology across different countries. We review literature, conduct a comparative study, and analyze the impact and advantages of using IT in ecological research and conservation practices. The comprehensive examination presented here aims to highlight the unique ways in which IT is being used to address ecological challenges, improve data collection, and enhance biodiversity conservation. From remote sensing techniques to the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in predicting ecological patterns, this study provides a global perspective on the intersection of technology and ecology. By shedding light on these applications and their implications, we contribute to the global discourse on sustainable ecological practices.

Tree biomass, carbon stock characteristics and ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) diversity in the Uzungwa Scarp Forest Nature Reserve, Tanzania.

Reducing carbon emission from Deforestation and forest Degradation (REDD+) has drawn attention and remain one of the main options for climate change mitigation. However, the extent to which conservation for carbon may enhance biodiversity conservation in both disturbed and relatively undisturbed (control) environment remain unclear in most forest types. The extent to which anthropogenic disturbances affect carbon stock and ground beetle diversity is also far from clear. This paper addressed these knowledge gaps using data based on ground beetles, carbon stock in live trees and tree species sampled in Uzungwa Scarp Nature Forest Reserve (USNFR). All trees with a diameter at breast height (DBH) ≥ 5 cm were measured for height and DBH in twelve clusters of 1 ha in size. In the same clusters, ground beetles were sampled using pitfall traps, active night search and active day search. The species diversity of ground beetles differed significantly between control sites and disturbed sites (p < 0.05). The mean total biomass and carbon stock in live trees were high in disturbed sites (323.72 t/ha) when compared to control sites (289.72 t/ha) but the difference was not statistically significant (U = 14, p > 0.05). Carbon in live trees and ground beetle diversity showed a weak positive correlation, while richness and abundance showed weak negative in control sites. Results show that REDD+ related activities in a tropical forest may enhance ground beetle diversity and carbon stock if ground beetles conservation is explicitly taken into account. Thus forest conservation planning that pursues both carbon storage and ground-dwelling invertebrate diversity is recommended.

PROMOTING BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION WITH SUPRA-REGIONAL CONNECTIONS. CASE STUDY OF A MEDITERRANEAN REGION, TUNISIA

Ecological network aims to ensure the survival of animal and plant species. It is considered a new public policy to avoid the loss of biodiversity by persevering the landscape connectivity and natural habitats from fragmentation. This research proposes a methodology that is based on identifying the sub-frames representatives of the study area and their selected species. Thus, the methodology developed comprises five steps. In the first step, the land use map was analyzed. Then, the major types of habitat were extracted. In the third step, a forest habitats sub-frame, a semi-open habitats sub-frame, and a wetlands sub-frame were determined. Then, the selected species were characterized. Finally, supra-regional connections were proposed to enhance biodiversity conservation in this region. As a result, crucial ecological corridors can be optimized along with the proposed supra-regional connections to the neighboring cities, and contributing to promote sustainable projects. Thus, the methodological approach developed can be a reference to other local or regional studies. It can be integrated into planning documents that should be a part of a decision-making perspective in public policies for sustainable landscapes, preserving biodiversity, and enhancing well-being.

Can cultural values associated with turacos be used to enhance biodiversity conservation in Cameroon?

AbstractTuracos are birds used as status symbols in certain African cultures. Despite this cultural value, turacos are increasingly threatened by habitat loss and illegal hunting. We tested the hypothesis that the high cultural value associated with turacos means local people are willing to conserve them and their habitats. To this end, we examined the traditional uses of turacos and how their cultural value could facilitate conservation interventions. We administered an open-ended questionnaire to 180 households during January 2017–November 2019. We found the feathers of three species of turacos to be associated with qualities such as social esteem and power: Bannerman's turaco Tauraco bannermani (categorized as Endangered on the IUCN Red List), green turaco Tauraco persa (Least Concern) and great blue turaco Corythaeola cristata (Least Concern). People were generally supportive of efforts to protect turacos because of a strong connection between these birds and the local culture, supporting our hypothesis. This particularly applied to people of high social standing such as chiefs and village elders who use turaco feathers to gain public distinction. Feathers were also used by herbalists for traditional medicine, and hunters used the birds’ calls as a time indicator. Feathers are generally obtained through opportunistic collection and a sustainable, traditional hunting system, but we also found that some people hunt turacos to sell them as pets. We recommend that conservation interventions make use of the cultural values associated with these iconic species, together with implementing alternative sources of livelihoods, to promote behaviours that help achieve conservation objectives in the area.

Determinants of livestock species ownership at household level: Evidence from rural OR Tambo District Municipality, South Africa

An understanding of factors influencing smallholder farmers’ livestock ownership at the household level is vital in formulating pro-poor livestock production policies and technologies. Hence, this study examined factors that influence livestock ownership of smallholder farmers. The data was collected randomly from three purposively selected study areas in the OR Tambo District (King Sabata Dalindyebo, Port St Johns and Ingquza Hill local municipalities) in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa using a cross-sectional survey of 650 households. A multivariate probit model (MPM) was used to estimate correlates of livestock species ownership at the household level. Results indicated that education, age, household income, marital status, religion, rainfall, gender, household size and employment status influence livestock species ownership at the household level. Therefore, efforts to promote livestock ownership and production should be guided by these significant explanatory variables in the study area. Interdependence among species was also noted (cattle and sheep; goats and pigs; sheep and pigs; cattle and goats; goats and sheep), suggesting complementarity among the different types of livestock species. This complementarity among the species can possibly be explained by functional diversity generic with multi-species livestock farming which is worth supporting to enhance biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, rural resource use efficiency and socio-economic sustainability at the household level.

Indigenous Sacred Forests as a Tool for Climate Change Mitigation: Lessons from Gedeo Community, Southern Ethiopia

ABSTRACT Sacred forests are patches of remnant natural forests, protected through social laws by the local communities near their villages and are always dedicated to cultural purposes. They are playing a significant role in combating climate change and informal enhancing biodiversity conservation. The aim of this study was to estimate carbon stocks of sacred forests by quantifying the aboveground biomass (AGB), and belowground (BGB) carbon of trees. The estimation of carbon stocks was conducted across the three sacred forests of Bolocho sacred forest (BSF), Ejjerissa sacred forest (ESF), and Amba sacred forest (ASF). A total of 30 plots: 10 BSF, 10 ESF, and 10 ASF were sampled and trees with DBH ≥5 cm and a height of ≥3 m was considered for biomass-carbon determination. We compared tree biomass, carbon stocks, stem densities, basal area, and importance value index of trees. Nondestructive methods of woody species biomass measurement was used by using allometric equations developed for application in tropical forests and/ or agroforestry system. A total of 4216 individuals representing 87 different species and 44 families were recorded. Statistical the highest stem density was recorded. Total biomass considered as AGB+BGB, which is highest for ASF followed by ESF and BSF (one way ANOVA, F = 98.66, df, 2, p < .001). The estimated amount of AGB across the three sacred forests were (505 Mg ha−1), (267 Mg ha−1) and (202 Mg ha−1) in ASF, ESF, and BSF, respectively. Total biomass stored, both aboveground and belowground (AGB+BGB) significantly higher for ASF (637 Mg ha−1) followed by ESF (338 Mg ha−1) and BSF (255 Mg ha−1). Total biomass carbon (C) was 318.5 Mg C ha−1 for ASF, 169 Mg C ha−1 for ESF, and 127.5 Mg C ha−1 for BSF. From the present study, it can be concluded that, sacred forests and indigenous way of forest protection has playing an enormous roles in carbon sequestration. Perhaps it could be accepted as best practices in climate change (CC) mitigation and reducing deforestation. Hence, it needs urge calls for an immediate attention for conservation, protections and documentation of indigenous knowledge.

Floristic diversity and structural characteristics of woody savanna vegetation: a case study from Patako Forest (Senegal)

Due to the presence of tree species of high socio-economic importance, many protected areas in the sudanian zone are facing anthropogenic pressure that threatens their stability and resources integrity. This study aimed at providing a better understanding of woody plant composition and structure in Patako Forest in Senegal. Data collection was conducted by stratified random sampling in a total of 251 plots in different vegetation types. The results indicated that Combretum glutinosum, Terminalia macroptera, Cordyla pinnata, Elaeis guineensis, Acacia macrostachya and Khaya senegalensis were the most representative species. The Importance Value Indices (IVI) of these species varied significantly among vegetation types. Species diversity and structural characteristics were higher in gallery forest. The most important Shannon diversity indices was recorded in gallery forest (2.81) while it was medium in both woodland (2.12), tree savanna (1.55) and shrub savanna (1.24). Tree density was dominated by multi-stemmed species. Stem density was significantly higher in gallery forest (536 ± 13 per ha) and woodland (526 ± 12 per ha) than in tree savanna (364 ± 15 per ha) and shrub savanna (309 ± 14 per ha). Forest management should focus on gallery forest to enhance biodiversity conservation and increase the potential of carbon sequestration.