Habitat Viability Research Articles

Assessing the reliability of biologger techniques to measure activity in a free-ranging primate

Assessmentof animal activity patterns can shed lighton a rangeof behavioural and ecological processes. The timing of activity canhelp improve understanding of a species’ spatial ecology, chrono-biology, energetic demands, reproductive strategy and nutritionalrequirements (Halle & Stenseth 2000; Erkert 2003). Activity dataare also useful for the assessment of animal welfare and conser-vation planning (Kitchen & Martin 1996; Broom & Fraser 2007;Cooke 2008); Activity patterns allow us to measure the impact ofhuman disturbance on habitat viability and behaviour (Williamset al. 2006; Yang et al. 2007), and to predict the influence of localor global climate change on the survival and distribution of a spe-cies or population (Walther et al. 2002; Hetem et al. 2012). Reliablemeasures of activity are thus fundamental to furthering our un-derstanding of animal behaviour and ecology.Two main methodological approaches have been used to recordthe activity patterns of free-ranging animals: behavioural obser-vation and biologging (reviewed in Cooke et al. 2004; Nathan et al.2012; Ropert-Coudert et al. 2012). Instantaneous scan sampling(Altmann 1974) is the most commonly used method to record ac-tivity and behaviour data in traditional studies of animal behav-ioural ecology. Scan sampling involves human observers recordingthe activity state (i.e. resting, foraging, travelling or social) of studyanimals at predetermined time intervals, to provide a descriptivemeasure of an individual’s or group’s activity. Scan sampling allowsarangeofbehaviouralinformation(e.g.diet, posture andproximityto conspecifics), in addition to states of activity, to be recordedsimultaneously. However, scan sampling often requires studysubjects to be individually identifiable and habituated to thepresence of human observers, and data can, by definition, only becollected during those periods when human observers are present.These prerequisites for successful scan sampling mayconstrain thecollectionofactivitydata.Insomespeciesorpopulationsitmaynotbe feasible to follow animals regularly, for example, if they arenocturnal or live in an inaccessible habitat, or if the researcher’spresence disrupts normal activity patterns.Biologgers,eitherattachedexternallyorimplantedintheanimal’sbody, have become increasingly popular for recording activityremotely(Cookeetal.2004;Ropert-Coudertetal.2012).Thesedevices

Minimum prey and area requirements of the Vulnerable cheetahAcinonyx jubatus: implications for reintroduction and management of the species in South Africa

AbstractIn South Africa there are efforts to manage reintroduced subpopulations of the Vulnerable cheetahAcinonyx jubatusin small reserves (10–1,000 km2) as a managed metapopulation. We estimated areas required to support cheetahs given varying prey densities, prey profiles and presence/absence of competing predators. A recent population and habitat viability assessment indicated that 20 subpopulations of 10 cheetahs or 10 subpopulations of 15 cheetahs are required to retain 90% of the heterozygosity of free-ranging cheetahs and to overcome stochastic events in the absence or presence of lionsPanthera leo, respectively. We estimate that 203 ± SE 42 km2(range 48–466 km2) is required to support 10 cheetahs in the absence of lions, whereas 703 ± SE 311 km2(166–2,806 km2) is required to support 15 cheetahs given equal numbers of lions, and 2,424 ± SE 890 km2(727–3,739 km2) given equal numbers of leopardsPanthera pardus, spotted hyaenasCrocuta crocuta, wild dogsLycaon pictusand lions. Existing subpopulations of cheetahs generally occur at densities higher than our mean predicted densities but usually within the range of predicted densities. The large area requirements of cheetahs have implications for the development of the managed metapopulation. Sourcing reintroduction sites of the sizes required to support recommended subpopulation sizes will be difficult. Consequently, innovative measures to increase the carrying capacity of reserves for cheetahs and/or to enlarge reserves will be required. Managers may be forced to stock cheetahs close to or beyond the carrying capacity of their reserves. Consequently, careful management of reintroduced subpopulations will be required to prevent declines in prey populations.

Threatened fishes of the world: Cyprinus pellegrini (Tchang, 1933) (Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae)

Common name: Datouli (in Chinese), “Big-head carp” or “Barbless carp” (in English). Conservation status: Endangered-China red data book of endangered animals (Wang et al. 1998). Identification: Deepest point of fish in lateral view in line with bony posterior margin to operculum; D:iv,15–18; A:iii,5; lateral line scales 34–37, upper transverse scale row between dorsal mid-line and lateral line 6–7, lower transverse scale row between lateral line and ventral mid-line 5 (Yang et al. 1966; Huang 1997). Illustration from Wu Xian-Wen (1977). Distribution: Endemic species in China and distributed only in Xingyun Lake and Qilu Lake of Yunnan Province (Wang et al. 1998; Li et al. 2008). Abundance: During the 1950s, it was an economically important fish of Xingyun and Qilu lakes; accounting for 70% of total fish production. Stocks have declined rapidly since the 1960s. Production in Xingyun Lake was 10% in 1966, 0.5% in 1986 and 0.1% in 1990 (Huang 1997; Wang et al. 1998). Habitat and ecology: Occurs in upper and mid-water habitats of high transparency. Feeds on plankton and, to a lesser extent, algae (Huang 1997). Reproduction: Spawning from April to September, mainly in May and June, in batches on aquatic plants; spawn sticky (Huang 1997). Threats: Introduced species that compete for food and habitat resources (Wang et al. 1998), overexploitation, habitat degradation and hybridization with other carp. Conservation action: No specific legal protection or conservation activity. Conservation recommendations: Scientific project to conduct a Population and Habitat Viability Assessment and produce a detailed Conservation Action Plan covering control of water pollution, improved management of the fishery, opportunities for assisted reproduction ex situ and reintroductions, as and when appropriate.

The role of the Species Survival Plan in Maned wolf Chrysocyon brachyurus conservation

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums Maned Wolf Species Survival Plan (MWSSP) was established almost 25 years ago. The goals of the MWSSP are to (1) maintain a viable self‐sustaining captive population in North America, (2) enhance health and well‐being of individuals living in North American zoos and (3) promote conservation of this species through education and field‐conservation initiatives. Since its inception, the MWSSP and member institutions have supported studies on nutrition, medical management, behaviour and reproductive biology, and published a husbandry manual, which serves as a guide for captive management of Maned wolves Chrysocyon brachyurus in North and South American zoos. Furthermore, the MWSSP has provided funding for field studies aimed at identifying potential threats to wild populations in range countries, including Brazil, Bolivia and Argentina, as well as for the first Population and Habitat Viability Assessment Workshop for this species. Finally, the MWSSP has played an active role in promoting education and outreach efforts in both the United States and range countries. In this paper, we review and discuss the roles of the MWSSP in ex situ and in situ conservation of the Near Threatened Maned wolf.

Regional assessment of climate change impacts on coastal and fluvial ecosystems and the scope for adaptation

Ecosystem changes in floodplains could be a major issue during the twenty-first century as designated habitat areas are affected by climate change and floodplain management options. As part of the RegIS project, a Regional Impact Simulator has been developed to investigate these potential changes. This paper presents the methodologies and results of biodiversity metamodels used within the Regional Impact Simulator for two regions of the UK: East Anglia and North West England. Potential impacts and adaptations to future climate and socio-economic scenarios are analysed for three habitat types in floodplains (saltmarsh, coastal grazing marsh and fluvial grazing marsh) and selected species. An important finding is that management choices, which can be linked to socio-economic futures have a greater potential impact on habitat viability than climate change. The choices society makes will therefore be key to protection and conservation of biodiversity. The analyses also show that coastal grazing marsh is the most vulnerable habitat to sea-level rise, although there is a scope for substituting losses with fluvial grazing marsh. These results indicate that these methods provide a useful approach for assessing potential biodiversity changes at the regional scale, including the effect of different policies.

A Comparative Analysis of the Vision and Mission Statements of International Environmental Organisations

The vision and mission statements of 24 environmental organisations were analysed under the premise that the language used in these statements reflects and influences the priorities of their operation. A dominant perspective, hinging on the concept of ‘sustainable development’, merged the profile of government agencies and non-governmental groups. The language reflected an utilitarian ethics: the environment was more generally portrayed as resources than as nature. Aesthetic remarks were exceptional, even among groups focusing on wildlife. Despite a broadly claimed link between human welfare and habitat viability, environmental issues were not broadly referred to by humanitarian organisations, while conservation groups comply with societal priorities and needs. Organisational statements seem more concerned about political legitimation by audiences with specific expectations than about articulating purposes with internal structural consequences or goals that advocate change or reflect organisational uniqueness.

Conservation Programs for the Endangered Javan Gibbon (Hylobates moloch)

The Javan gibbon (Hylobates moloch), found in Western Java, is one of the rarest and most endangered of the hylobatids. Two workshops, which brought together Indonesian primate biologists, international scientists, zoos, local and international nongovernmental organizations, and government organizations, have been carried out for the conservation of this species. In 1994, a Population and Habitat Viability Analysis (PHVA) workshop was held focusing on the distribution, status, and threats of wild populations of Javan gibbon, and in 1997, a second was held to discuss strategies for rescue and rehabilitation. The results have been used to develop guidelines to save the Javan gibbon in the wild, and to trace further directions for research on, and the monitoring of, the remaining populations. To date, major accomplishments are as follows; headway has been made on protecting their stronghold habitats through the creation of the Gunung Ciremai National Park and the development of a conservation corridor, incorporating Gunung Salak into Gunung Halimun National Park and enlarging the Gunung Gede Pangrango National Park, which increased the size of the two parks to 135,000 ha in total and more than doubled the amount of protected habitat for the Javan gibbon; programs have been set up for monitoring the pet market as well as populations in the wild; a rescue and rehabilitation center has been established, as has an education program and a conservation awareness campaign using the Javan gibbon as a mascot species.

Genetic management of the red squirrel, Sciurus vulgaris: a practical approach to regional conservation

The progressive decline in red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) numbers in Wales has led to conservation and reintroduction projects being established on the island of Anglesey. The recovery of the island’s remnant wild population was initially successful, however concern remained over potential loss of genetic diversity resulting from an observed demographic bottleneck. We used mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region sequences and six microsatellite loci to assess current levels of genetic variation in the population. Samples were monomorphic for control region sequences and a historic specimen from the same area carrying a different haplotype demonstrated a loss of mtDNA diversity during the last 20 years. Inclusion of other Welsh haplotypes indicated phylogeographic structure in the region, in contrast to previous UK studies. Genotyping results showed allelic diversity and heterozygosity to be less than 50% of that recorded in other UK populations, with strong evidence for a recent genetic bottleneck. A parallel reintroduction programme on Anglesey included genetic analysis of individuals during the selection of captive breeding pairs. We present analysis of sequence and microsatellite data, and subsequent management decisions taken to maximise diversity in the founder and F1 generations. Population and Habitat Viability Analysis applied to both populations modelled future levels of heterozygosity and allelic diversity. Supplementation of the remnant and reintroduced populations with translocated squirrels was simulated as a potential management tool; results support use of this strategy to reduce loss of diversity and increase survival. The limitations of applying conservation genetic theory within small-scale management projects are discussed.

Experiments in consilience: integrating social and scientific responses to save endangered species

In his 1998 book Consilience, E.O. Wilson set forth the idea that integrating knowledge and insights from across the spectrum of human study -- the humanities, social science, and natural sciences -- is the key to solving complex environmental and social problems. Experiments in Consilience tells the unique story of a pathbreaking effort to apply this theoretical construct in a real-world setting. The book describes the work of the Biodiversity Research Network, a team of experts from the United States and Canada brought together to build interdisciplinary connections and stimulate an exchange of expertise. Team members sought to understand the ecology and population dynamics of key species in particular ecosystems, to understand the impact of human populations on those species and ecosystems, and to develop tools and processes for involving a greater variety of stakeholders in conservation efforts. In order to keep the experiment grounded, the network focused on a single type of conservation planning workshop run by a single organization -- the Population and Habitat Viability Assessment Workshop (PHVA) of the IUCN-sponsored Conservation Breeding Specialist Group (CBSG). The book combines sections on the theoretical underpinnings of relevant concepts in population biology, simulation modeling, and social science with detailed descriptions of six PHVA workshops conducted on different species across four continents. A concluding chapter examines the lessons learned, which have application to both theory and practice, including reflections on interdisciplinarity, integrated risk assessment, and future directions for research and action. Through the combination of theory and application, combined with frank discussions of what the research network learned -- including both successes and failures -- the book offers fresh ideas on how to improve on-the-ground conservation decisionmaking. Experiments in Consilience offers a one-of-a-kind overview and introduction to the challenges of cross-disciplinary analysis as well as cross-functional, cross-disciplinary and cross-sectoral action. It centers on the problem of conserving endangered species while telling the story of a new form of organizing for effective risk assessment, recommendation, and action.

Mars atmospheric oxidant sensor (MAOS): an in-situ heterogeneous chemistry analysis

We describe a chemometric array sensor, the Mars atmospheric oxidant sensor (MAOS, pronounced “mouse”) that is designed to measure the oxidation rate of thin films on the martian surface. We select films that are sensitive to particular types of oxidants, that represent key elements in the martian soil, or that emulate prebiotic materials. Concern that naturally arising martian oxidants may have destroyed evidence of ancient life on Mars was raised by the Viking mission in the 1970s. The possibility that oxidants may limit the viability of biological habitats is particularly timely in the light of recent suggestions of contemporary flowing water on Mars. By controlling the temperature of the films, as well as their exposure to dust and ultraviolet light, MAOS will discriminate among leading hypotheses for oxidant production. MAOS weighs 55 g , fits in a 6×7×2 cm 3 envelope, and used 250 mW power. Much of the enabling technology was developed for the MOx experiment, lost on the Russian Mars ’96 mission.

Status of the Humboldt Penguin in Peru, 1999-2000

The status of the Humboldt Penguin (Spheniscus humboldti) was investigated in Peru after the 1997-98 El Niño event, the strongest of the last century. Penguin numbers along the southern and central coast of Peru (97% of the total) did not differ significantly between 1999 and 2000; the average number was 4,425 individuals. In 1999, the proportion of juveniles (one-year-old birds) was only 0.2% compared with 7% in 2000, probably as a result of the 1997-98 El Niño. Penguins were found from La Foca Island (512’S) to Punta Coles (1742’S). However, the majority (78%) were clustered in five localities, Punta San Juan (36%), San Juanito Islet (11%), Hornillos Island (10%), Pachacamac Island (12%) and Tres Puertas (9%). The size and distribution of penguin colonies have changed over the last 15 years. Penguins have abandoned sites at Punta Corio, Sombrerillo and Morro Sama, and have decreased significantly in numbers in Punta San Fernando and Punta La Chira, where human disturbance has increased, mainly due to local fisheries activities. Penguins have increased at Punta San Juan, San Juanito Islet and San Gallan Island, all of which are partially protected. Half of the penguins were located in guano bird reserves, primarily at Punta San Juan. Guano bird reserves provide some protection against terrestrial predators and human disturbance; however, periodical guano extraction decreases their breeding success. Most penguin sites were found in inaccessible and marginal areas, which were vulnerable to occasional and unpredictable flooding from ocean swells. The methodology recommended by the Population and Habitat Viability Assessment workshop for a consistent census of penguins in Peru and Chile during the molting period was validated at the Punta San Juan Reserve. Continued monitoring of Humboldt Penguin numbers is recommended in order to more fully understand patterns of fluctuation and to be able to detect changes of conservation concern as early as possible. Collaborative efforts between local authorities and conservation biologists are needed to monitor and protect this vulnerable species.

A population and habitat viability assessment for the highly endangered giant jumping rat (Hypogeomys antimena), the largest extant endemic rodent of Madagascar

A population and habitat viability analysis (PHVA) was carried out for the Malagasy giant jumping rat (Hypogeomys antimena), one of the key species of the highly threatened dry deciduous forests on the western coast of Madagascar. The occurrence of H. antimena is now confined to 200 km2 of fragmented but relatively undisturbed forest remnants, divided in northern and southern subpopulations. Since 1985 the habitat has declined by about 52% (1985: 42,000 ha; 2000: 20,000 ha). The annual rate of habitat decline increased from 3.9% between 1985 and 1995 to 4.4% between 1995 and 2000. Within a study area (Kirindy Forest/CFPF) in the southern subpopulation, the Hypogeomys population collapsed during the decade 1990-2000, as well as over its remaining range. An ongoing population decline within the next 100 years is predicted even if further habitat decline can be stopped within the next 5 years and no additional mortality by roaming dogs is considered. Thereby, the outcomes of two different individual-based simulation approaches, one that was explicitly written to reflect Hypogeomys life history and VORTEX, one of the most common software packages used for this purpose, were compared. The results of the Hypogeomys model were more pessimistic, but were within the range of predictions of the VORTEX model which calculated larger standard deviations of the mean values. In both subpopulations, a slight increase in the mortality caused by roaming dogs resulted in a predicted decline to an average population size of maximal 170 individuals within 100 years with a high risk of extinction. However, the simulations indicated that the most important factor is reduction in habitat. If the actual annual rate of habitat lost continues, the extinction of the both subpopulations and therefore the entire species is predicted within 24 years.

Misdirections in Conservation Biology

Abstract: The hypothesis that conservation biology is proceeding along two separate trajectories (Caughley 1994) has provoked extensive discussion. Caughley's dichotomy, a “small‐population” paradigm versus a “declining‐population” paradigm, has recently been exemplified in discussion of management strategies for conservation of the Javan gibbon ( Hylobates moloch). Recommendations from extensive fieldwork focused on reducing the major known threat to the species—habitat destruction—and proposed a strategy of forest management and protection. A population and habitat viability analysis focused on an entirely different issue—low genetic diversity—and proposed a program of single‐species genetic management. It is not surprising that geneticists see inbreeding as a major conservation problem, and it is not unusual that ecologists focus on how ecology relates to conservation. A problem results when managers assume that addressing only one or the other of these factors is the appropriate conservation action. Conservation biologists must learn to thoroughly analyze every conservation problem before trying to solve it. We must actively involve experts from all fields in forming and reviewing conservation strategies. If only captive breeding specialists or ecologists are invited to address a problem, then the techniques employed to solve it will be irrevocably biased. We do not all see the world in the same way, even within the relatively small field of conservation. To achieve effective conservation action, we must learn to balance and capitalize on our different perspectives.

A Framework for Conceptualizing Human Effects on Landscapes and Its Relevance to Management and Research Models

Abstract: The concept of habitat fragmentation is limited in its ability to describe the range of possible landscape configurations created by a variety of disturbances. This limitation is especially problematic in landscapes where human use of the habitat matrix occurs at multiple levels and where habitat modification may be a more important consideration than a simple binary classification of habitat versus nonhabitat. We propose a synthesizing scheme that places intact, variegated, fragmented, and relictual landscape states on a continuum, depending on the degree of habitat destruction. At a second level, the scheme considers the patterns of habitat modification that are imposed on remaining habitats. Management for conservation involves halting and sometimes reversing the trends of habitat destruction and modification. Conservation strategies will differ according to the state of alteration of the landscape, but all strategies include some consideration of the degree of modification of the matrix in determining habitat viability. It is convenient for biologists to assess landscape alteration state in terms of the persistence of large structural elements such as trees. Because animal species use habitats differently, however, they also experience the landscape differently. A landscape considered structurally fragmented by humans may be functionally variegated to other species. Therefore, it is necessary to consider the extent to which the entire landscape, including the matrix, is accessible and utilized by organisms with different spatial scales of resource use.

Post‐European changes to the fluvial geomorphology of Bega catchment, Australia: implications for river ecology

1. Within a few decades of European disturbance in the mid‐nineteenth century, river character and behaviour were transformed in Bega catchment on the south coast of New South Wales, Australia. Ecological impacts of geomorphic changes to river structure and function throughout the catchment are assessed.2. At the time of European settlement, many water courses in Bega catchment were discontinuous, with extensive swamps along middle and upper courses. Following a series of direct and indirect human impacts, channels became continuous in the middle and upper parts of the catchment, as extensive valley fills at the base of the escarpment were incised. Along the lowland plain, the channel widened by over 300%, fundamentally altering the relationship between the channel and its adjacent floodplain.3. Geomorphic changes to river structure have modified habitat availability throughout Bega catchment. The impacts have been least pronounced in headwater streams, but have been dramatic along virtually all river courses beyond the base of the escarpment.4. Changes in river structure have been directly related to altered riparian vegetation cover, and vice versa. As a consequence of changes to river structure, bed substrate calibre (and supply volume/rate) has been modified along most streams.5. A series of indirect, secondary impacts have modified habitat viability along river courses. Lateral, longitudinal and vertical linkages within the river system have been altered, affecting the transfer of water, sediment, organic matter, nutrients and other biotic interactions.6. These direct and indirect consequences of geomorphic changes in river structure suggest that ecologists need to adopt a longer‐term, catchment‐framed view of human disturbance to river ecosystems.7. Effective, sustainable ecological rehabilitation of river courses is dependent on an understanding of geomorphic processes and determination of appropriate river structure at differing positions in catchments.

Conservation and management of orang‐utans Pongo pygmaeus ssp1

The orang‐utan Pongo pygmaeus ssp is an Asian great ape which is now only found on the islands of Borneo and Sumatra. In North America in 1982 a Species Survival Plan (SSP) programme was initiated which, over the next 100 years, aims to maintain c. 91% of the original genetic diversity of the captive populations of Bornean Pongo pygmaeus pygmaeus and c. 94% of Sumatran Pongo pygmaeus abelii orang‐utans. There is some controversy over the genetic evidence of distinct subspeciation but in 1985 the SSP adopted a moratorium on the reproduction of subspecific hybrids. The SSP has encouraged various initiatives in North American zoos which house orang‐utans to provide direct support to in situ field conservation and research projects in Indonesia and Malaysia, including a fund‐raising programme at Zoo Atlanta and a Population and Habitat Viability Analysis (PHVA) in Sumatra.

Preliminary observations on the Sumatran rhino in Way Kambas National Park, Indonesia

The Sumatran rhino Dicerorhinus sumatrensis is regarded as critically endangered with a world population of approximately 400. In 1991 it was recorded in Way Kambas National Park, Sumatra, Indonesia, 30 years after the park's last rhino was believed to have been shot. A Sumatran Rhino Population and Habitat Viability Analysis (PHVA) workshop in 1993 recommended an immediate survey be carried out to assess the rhino population in the park. The Way Kambas Project recorded observations of rhino sign between 1993 and 1995. Sign was most frequently observed along trails in mature secondary forest. Data from the areas surveyed suggest the presence of at least four rhinos.

Preliminary observations on the Sumatran rhino in Way Kambas National Park, Indonesia

The Sumatran rhino Dicerorhinus sumatrensis is regarded as critically endangered with a world population of approximately 400. In 1991 it was recorded in Way Kambas National Park, Sumatra, Indonesia, 30 years after the park's last rhino was believed to have been shot. A Sumatran Rhino Population and Habitat Viability Analysis (PHVA) workshop in 1993 recommended an immediate survey be carried out to assess the rhino population in the park. The Way Kambas Project recorded observations of rhino sign between 1993 and 1995. Sign was most frequently observed along trails in mature secondary forest. Data from the areas surveyed suggest the presence of at least four rhinos.

Aspects of the ecology and conservation of the threatened treeOlearia hectoriiin New Zealand

Abstract Olearia hectorii Hook.f. is a low-growing deciduous tree confined to four widely separated districts in New Zealand: Rangitikei and southern Wairarapa in the North Island; and Nelson-Marlborough and Otago-Southland in the South Island. Topographically it occurs where mountains or hill country meet alluvial lowland on sites variously affected by flooding and siltation, debris avalanching, seasonal waterlogging and drought, and frost — environmental factors that reduce competition from taller trees. The species escapes competition from taller forest trees as a component of seral vegetation, occupying sites such as cut-off meanders and frosty depressions, which are marginal to forest trees, and exploiting light gaps in forest understoreys beneath lightly-canopied or deciduous broadleaved trees. Only three of the 24 extant populations of O. hectorii occur in self-maintaining habitats; the remainder have low numbers and, in many instances, habitat viability through agricultural fragmentation of the fo...

Population Management for Survival and Recovery: Analytical Methods and Strategies in Small Population Conservation

Places the converging disciplines of wildlife management and captive management in the context of the developing field of population and habitat viability analysis. The contributors explore the science of the demographic management of small populations, both in zoos and in the wild.