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Wang JF, Xu K, Yao S, Liu T, Yu B, Huang XQ, Xiao ZS, Xia DP. Temporal niche partitioning among sympatric wild and domestic ungulates between warm and cold seasons. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10570. [PMID: 38719931 PMCID: PMC11079061 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61463-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The coexistence of sympatric species with similar ecological niches has been a central issue in ecology. Clarifying the daily activity patterns of sympatric wild ungulates can help understand their temporal niche differentiation and the mechanisms of coexistence, providing information for their conservation. The Baotianman National Nature Reserve in northern China is rich in wild ungulates, but little is known about the daily activity patterns of wild ungulates in the area, making it difficult to develop effective conservation strategies. We studied five representative wild ungulates (i.e. forest musk deer, Chinese goral, Reeve's muntjac, Siberian roe deer, and wild boar) of the region using camera-trapping data, focusing on the seasonal daily activity patterns and effects of seasonal grazing of domestic sheep, to reveal their coexistence based on temporal ecological niche differentiation. Comparative analyses of the seasonal daily activity showed that forest musk deer exhibited a single-peak activity in the warm season. Other ungulates exhibited multipeak activity. All five ungulates differed significantly in daily activity patterns. Notably, wild boar and Reeve's muntjac showed high overlap coefficients between the cold and warm seasons. In both cold and warm seasons, the five wild ungulates and domestic sheep displayed low overlap in their daily activity rhythms potentially indicating temporal ecological niche differentiation. The results suggest that temporal isolation might be a strategy for wild ungulates to avoid domestic sheep and reduce interspecific competition, and that temporal ecological niche differentiation potentially promoted the coexistence among the studied sympatric ungulates. This understanding may provide new insights for the development of targeted conservation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Feng Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, 230601, Anhui, China
- International Collaborative Research Center for Huangshan Biodiversity and Tibetan Macaque Behavioral Ecology, Hefei, 230601, China
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Kai Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101407, China
| | - Song Yao
- Neixiang Management Bureau of Baotianman National Nature Reserve, Neixiang, 474350, Henan, China
| | - Tong Liu
- Neixiang Management Bureau of Baotianman National Nature Reserve, Neixiang, 474350, Henan, China
| | - Bo Yu
- Neixiang Management Bureau of Baotianman National Nature Reserve, Neixiang, 474350, Henan, China
| | - Xiao-Qun Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Zhi-Shu Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Dong-Po Xia
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, 230601, Anhui, China.
- International Collaborative Research Center for Huangshan Biodiversity and Tibetan Macaque Behavioral Ecology, Hefei, 230601, China.
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2
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Franchini M, Atzeni L, Lovari S, Nasanbat B, Ravchig S, Herrador FC, Bombieri G, Augugliaro C. Spatiotemporal behavior of predators and prey in an arid environment of Central Asia. Curr Zool 2023; 69:670-681. [PMID: 37876635 PMCID: PMC10591146 DOI: 10.1093/cz/zoac093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms of interactions between apex and smaller carnivores may range from competition to facilitation. Conversely, interactions between predators and prey are mainly driven by the prey reducing the likelihood of encounters with predators. In this study, we investigated (1) the spatiotemporal interactions between an apex (the snow leopard) and a meso-predator (the red fox), and (2) the temporal interactions between the snow leopard and its potential prey (Siberian ibex, argali, Asian wild ass, Tolai hare) through camera trapping in the Mongolian Great Gobi-A. The probability of occurrence for the red fox was higher in the presence of the snow leopard than in its absence. Moreover, the red fox activity pattern matched that of the snow leopard, with both species mostly active at sunset. This positive spatiotemporal interaction suggests that the presence of the snow leopard may be beneficial for the red fox in terms of scavenging opportunities. However, other explanations may also be possible. Amongst prey, the Siberian ibex and the argali were mainly active during the day, whereas the Asian wild ass and the Tolai hare were more nocturnal. These findings suggest that potential prey (especially the Siberian ibex and the argali) may shape their behavior to decrease the opportunity for encounters with the snow leopard. Our results have revealed complex interactions between apex and smaller predators and between apex predator and its potential prey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcello Franchini
- Department of Research and Conservation, Wildlife Initiative Italia, Via Rovigo, 12, 31040 Pederobba (TV), Italy
- Department of Agri-Food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via Sondrio 2/A, 33100, Udine, Italy
| | - Luciano Atzeni
- Department of Research and Conservation, Wildlife Initiative Italia, Via Rovigo, 12, 31040 Pederobba (TV), Italy
- Wildlife Institute, School of Ecology and Nature Conservation, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China
| | - Sandro Lovari
- Maremma Natural History Museum, Grosseto, and Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Battogtokh Nasanbat
- Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
- Institute of Biology, Mongolian Academy of Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
- School of Arts and Sciences, National University of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Samiya Ravchig
- School of Arts and Sciences, National University of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | | | - Giovanni Bombieri
- Department of Research and Conservation, Wildlife Initiative Italia, Via Rovigo, 12, 31040 Pederobba (TV), Italy
- World Biodiversity Association—C/o Museo Civico di Storia Naturale Lungadige Porta Vittoria, 9 37129 Verona, Italia
| | - Claudio Augugliaro
- Wildlife Initiative, Bayangol, 6th Khoroo, Micro District 10, Ulaanbaatar 210349, Mongolia
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, Biophore, Quartier Sorge, Lausanne, CH-1015, Switzerland
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3
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Qiu Z, Li J, Wang P, Wang D, Han L, Gao X, Shu J. Response of soil bacteria on habitat-specialization and abundance gradient to different afforestation types. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18181. [PMID: 37875517 PMCID: PMC10598043 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-44468-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies involving response of subgroups of soil microorganisms to forest change, especially comparative studies on habitat-specialization and abundance gradient were still lack. In this study, we analyzed the response of soil bacterial diversity and structure to afforestation types and its relationship to environment of Fanggan ecological restoration area under the classification of subgroups by habitat-specialization and abundance gradient based on abundance ratio respectively. The results were: (1) On the habitat-specialization gradient, the variation of OTUs species number and abundance was consistent and positively correlated with habitat-specialization; on the abundance gradient, the variation was opposite and OTUs species number was negatively correlated with abundance gradient; (2) The distribution frequency of each subgroup on both gradients was the highest in broad-leaved forests, but the abundance was the opposite. The distribution frequency of the same stand showed no difference among habitat-specialization subgroups, but the abundant subgroup in broad-leaved forests was the highest among the abundance subgroups; (3) α-diversity was positively correlated with habitat-specialization but negatively with abundance, with the highest mostly in broad-leaved and mixed forests; (4) Community structure among stands on habitat-specialization gradient showed no significant difference, but that of rare subgroup between broad-leaved forests and other stands significantly differed. Plant diversity and vegetation composition correlated stronger with community structure than spatial distance and soil physicochemical properties on both gradients. Our results provided a new perspective for revealing the effects of afforestation types on soil bacteria from the comparison of habitat specialization and abundance gradient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenlu Qiu
- College of Forestry Engineering, Shandong Agricultural and Engineering University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Jie Li
- College of Forestry Engineering, Shandong Agricultural and Engineering University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Peng Wang
- College of Forestry Engineering, Shandong Agricultural and Engineering University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Dong Wang
- College of Forestry Engineering, Shandong Agricultural and Engineering University, Jinan, 250100, China
| | - Li Han
- College of Biological and Chemical Enginering, Qilu Institute of Technology, Jinan, 250200, China
| | - Xiaojuan Gao
- College of Biological and Chemical Enginering, Qilu Institute of Technology, Jinan, 250200, China
| | - Jing Shu
- College of Forestry Engineering, Shandong Agricultural and Engineering University, Jinan, 250100, China.
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Jia J, Fang Y, Li X, Song K, Xie W, Bu C, Sun Y. Temporal Activity Patterns of Sympatric Species in the Temperate Coniferous Forests of the Eastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13071129. [PMID: 37048385 PMCID: PMC10093433 DOI: 10.3390/ani13071129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Temporal niche partitioning is an important strategy for sympatric species or populations when utilizing limited resources while minimizing competition. Different resource availability across seasons may also influence the intensity of competition, resulting in a varied temporal niche partitioning pattern between species. These competitive interactions are important drivers for the formation of biodiversity patterns and species coexistence on the eastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. To clarify these interspecies relationships among sympatric species, we carried out a camera trap survey from 2017 to 2020. We deployed 60 camera traps in the temperate coniferous forests of the eastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. We analyzed the daily activity patterns of birds and mammals to reveal the temporal niches and seasonal relationships among the species-specific activity rhythms. The results are summarized as follows: (1) Eight major species, including mammals and birds, have different temporal peak activity rhythms to reduce intense competition for resources. (2) The activity rhythm of a species varies seasonally, and the competition among species is more intense in the warm season than in the cold season. (3) Among 15 pairs of competitor species, seven pairs had significantly different coefficients, with higher winter values than summer values, perhaps due to the abundance of resources in summer and the scarcity of resources in winter causing intensified competition. Among the predators and prey, the summertime coefficients were higher than those in winter, perhaps due to the need to replenish energy during the summer breeding season. The main purpose of animals in winter is to survive the harsh environment. Our results provide important information on temporal and interspecies relationships and contribute to a better understanding of species-coexistence mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Jia
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yun Fang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xinhai Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kai Song
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Wendong Xie
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Changli Bu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yuehua Sun
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- Correspondence:
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5
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Barker NA, Joubert FG, Kasaona M, Shatumbu G, Stowbunenko V, Alexander KA, Slotow R, Getz WM. Coursing hyenas and stalking lions: The potential for inter- and intraspecific interactions. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0265054. [PMID: 36735747 PMCID: PMC9897591 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Resource partitioning promotes coexistence among guild members, and carnivores reduce interference competition through behavioral mechanisms that promote spatio-temporal separation. We analyzed sympatric lion and spotted hyena movements and activity patterns to ascertain the mechanisms facilitating their coexistence within semi-arid and wetland ecosystems. We identified recurrent high-use (revisitation) and extended stay (duration) areas within home ranges, as well as correlated movement-derived measures of inter- and intraspecific interactions with environmental variables. Spatial overlaps among lions and hyenas expanded during the wet season, and occurred at edges of home ranges, around water-points, along pathways between patches of high-use areas. Lions shared more of their home ranges with spotted hyenas in arid ecosystems, but shared more of their ranges with conspecifics in mesic environments. Despite shared space use, we found evidence for subtle temporal differences in the nocturnal movement and activity patterns between the two predators, suggesting a fine localized-scale avoidance strategy. Revisitation frequency and duration within home ranges were influenced by interspecific interactions, after land cover categories and diel cycles. Intraspecific interactions were also important for lions and, important for hyenas were moon illumination and ungulates attracted to former anthrax carcass sites in Etosha, with distance to water in Chobe/Linyanti. Recursion and duration according to locales of competitor probabilities were similar among female lions and both sexes of hyenas, but different for male lions. Our results suggest that lions and spotted hyenas mediate the potential for interference competition through subtle differences in temporal activity, fine-scale habitat use differentiation, and localized reactive-avoidance behaviors. These findings enhance our understanding of the potential effects of interspecific interactions among large carnivore space-use patterns within an apex predator system and show adaptability across heterogeneous and homogeneous environments. Future conservation plans should emphasize the importance of inter- and intraspecific competition within large carnivore communities, particularly moderating such effects within increasingly fragmented landscapes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy A. Barker
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Marthin Kasaona
- Etosha Ecological Institute, Ministry of Environment and Tourism, Okaukeujo, Namibia
| | - Gabriel Shatumbu
- Etosha Ecological Institute, Ministry of Environment and Tourism, Okaukeujo, Namibia
| | - Vincent Stowbunenko
- Department of Computer Science, San José State University, San Jose, California, United States of America
| | - Kathleen A. Alexander
- Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Rob Slotow
- Oppenheimer Fellow in Functional Ecology, Centre for Functional Ecology, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Wayne M. Getz
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy & Management, University of California, Berkeley, California, United States of America
- School of Mathematical Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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6
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Chiaverini L, Macdonald DW, Hearn AJ, Kaszta Ż, Ash E, Bothwell HM, Can ÖE, Channa P, Clements GR, Haidir IA, Kyaw PP, Moore JH, Rasphone A, Tan CKW, Cushman SA. Not seeing the forest for the trees: Generalised linear model out-performs random forest in species distribution modelling for Southeast Asian felids. ECOL INFORM 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoinf.2023.102026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
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7
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Hendry A, Amir Z, Decoeur H, Mendes CP, Moore JH, Sovie A, Luskin MS. Marbled cats in Southeast Asia: Are diurnal and semi‐arboreal felids at greater risk from human disturbances? Ecosphere 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.4338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Hendry
- School of Biological Sciences University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Zachary Amir
- School of Biological Sciences University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Henri Decoeur
- School of Biological Sciences University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Calebe Pereira Mendes
- School of Biological Sciences University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Jonathan H. Moore
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering Southern University of Science and Technology Shenzhen China
- School of Environmental Sciences University of East Anglia Norwich UK
| | - Adia Sovie
- School of Biological Sciences University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Matthew Scott Luskin
- School of Biological Sciences University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland Australia
- Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Science University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland Australia
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8
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Malviya M, Krishnamurthy R. Multiscale spatially explicit modelling of livestock depredation by reintroduced tiger (Panthera tigris) to predict conflict risk probability. Glob Ecol Conserv 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2022.e02313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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9
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Sumatra-wide assessment of spatiotemporal niche partitioning among small carnivore species. Mamm Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s42991-022-00315-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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10
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Guerrero‐Sánchez S, Wilson A, González‐Abarzúa M, Kunde M, Goossens B, Sipangkui R, Frias L. Serological evidence of exposure of Bornean wild carnivores to feline-related viruses at the domestic animal-wildlife interface. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:e3250-e3254. [PMID: 35373926 PMCID: PMC9790233 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
We conducted an exploratory serological survey to evaluate the exposure of Bornean wild carnivores to several viruses common to domestic felids, at interface areas between protected forest and industrial agriculture in the Kinabatangan floodplain (Sabah, Malaysia). Blood samples, collected from wild carnivores (n = 21) and domestic cats (n = 27), were tested for antibodies against feline coronavirus (FCoV), feline panleukopenia virus (FPLV), feline herpesvirus (FHV) and feline calicivirus (FCV), using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test kits. Anti-FCoV antibodies were detected in most species, including one flat-headed cat (Prionailurus planiceps, [1/2]), leopard cats (Prionailurus bengalensis, [2/5]), Malay civets (Viverra tangalunga, [2/11]) and domestic cats (Felis catus, [2/27]). Anti-FCV antibodies were present in all domestic cats and one flat-headed cat, while anti-FPLV antibodies were identified in Sunda clouded leopards (Neofelis diardi, [2/2]), domestic cats [12/27] and Malay civets [2/11]. Anti-FHV antibodies were only detected in domestic cats [2/27]. Our findings indicate pathogen transmission risk between domestic and wild carnivore populations at the domestic animal-wildlife interface, emphasizing the concern for wildlife conservation for several endangered wild carnivores living in the area. Special consideration should be given to species that benefit from their association with humans and have the potential to carry pathogens between forest and plantations (e.g., Malay civets and leopard cats). Risk reduction strategies should be incorporated and supported as part of conservation actions in human-dominated landscapes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Guerrero‐Sánchez
- Centre for Applied One Health Research and Policy Advice, Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life SciencesCity University of Hong KongKowloonHong Kong,Institute of Borneo StudiesUniversity College Sabah FoundationKota KinabaluMalaysia,Danau Girang Field CentreKota KinabaluMalaysia,Present address:
Sustainable Places Research InstituteCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
| | - Amanda Wilson
- Danau Girang Field CentreKota KinabaluMalaysia,Institute for Tropical Biology and ConservationUniversiti Malaysia SabahKota KinabaluMalaysia
| | | | | | - Benoit Goossens
- Danau Girang Field CentreKota KinabaluMalaysia,Organisms and Environment DivisionCardiff School of BiosciencesCardiff UniversityCardiffUK,Present address:
Sustainable Places Research InstituteCardiff UniversityCardiffUK,Present address:
Sabah Wildlife DepartmentKota KinabaluMalaysia
| | - Rosa Sipangkui
- Present address:
Sabah Wildlife DepartmentKota KinabaluMalaysia
| | - Liesbeth Frias
- Danau Girang Field CentreKota KinabaluMalaysia,Present address:
Sabah Wildlife DepartmentKota KinabaluMalaysia,Asian School of the EnvironmentNanyang Technological UniversitySingaporeSingapore
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11
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Jayasekara D, Dharmarathne WDSC, Padmalal UKGK, Mahaulpatha WAD. Camera trap data reveal the habitat associations, activity patterns and population density of Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) in Maduru Oya National Park, Sri Lanka. ANIMAL BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION 2022. [DOI: 10.32800/abc.2022.45.0225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) is a solitary, medium–sized mammal native to South Asia. In this study we used camera trap data recorded during a meso–mammal survey conducted from January 2019 to January 2021 to assess the occupancy, habitat associations, population density and activity patterns of Indian pangolins in Maduru Oya National Park (MONP), Sri Lanka. The preferred habitat of the species was dry–mixed forest with an occupancy probability of 0.42 ± 0.19. Occupancy modeling revealed the association of the species with the forested habitats of the park with rich canopy cover, high NDVI scores and abundant termite mounds. Activity of this pangolin was highly nocturnal, reaching a peak after midnight. We observed a considerable spatiotemporal overlap in Indian pangolin activity and human activity, possibly increasing hunting pressure on the species. We estimated occupancy and abundance–based population density (0.73 ± 0.21 indiv./km2) using the random encounter model for the first time in the study area. These findings could be useful for conservation and management decisions concerning the survival and vital habitats of one of the most trafficked mammals in the world, the Indian pangolin.
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Affiliation(s)
- D.. Jayasekara
- Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
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12
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Shameer TT, Backer SJ, Nandhini S, Raman S, Mujawar AN, Yogesh J, Kaushal KK, Reddy SR, Nazia A, Sanil R. How do the sympatric forest mongooses coexist in the Western Ghats landscape? Insights from spatio-temporal approach. COMMUNITY ECOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s42974-022-00101-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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13
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Ecology, occurrence and distribution of wild felids in Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. ORYX 2022. [DOI: 10.1017/s0030605321001484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Sarawak is the largest state in the megadiverse country of Malaysia. Its rich biodiversity is threatened by land-use change and hunting, with mammalian carnivores particularly affected. Data on the ecology, occurrence and distribution of small carnivores are crucial to inform their effective conservation, but no large-scale assessments have previously been conducted in Sarawak. Here we examine the status of the five species of felids in Sarawak based on data from camera-trap studies over 17 years (May 2003–February 2021) across 31 study areas, including protected areas of various sizes, production forests and forest matrix within oil palm plantations. Felids were detected at 39% of 845 camera stations. The marbled cat Pardofelis marmorata and Sunda clouded leopard Neofelis diardi had higher probabilities of occurrence in protected than unprotected areas, and vice versa for the leopard cat Prionailurus bengalensis and bay cat Catopuma badia. The marbled and bay cats were mostly diurnal, and the leopard cat was predominantly nocturnal; activity patterns did not substantively differ between protected and unprotected sites. The probabilities of occurrence of marbled and bay cats increased with greater distance from roads. The leopard cat and flat-headed cat Prionailurus planiceps were more likely, and the clouded leopard less likely, to occur near rivers. Flat-headed cats preferred peat swamp forest, bay cats lowland forest, and marbled cats and clouded leopards occurred in both lowland and montane forest. Felids may tolerate higher elevations to avoid anthropogenic disturbance; therefore, it is critical to preserve lowland and mid-elevation habitats that provide refugia from climate change and the destruction of lowland habitat.
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14
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Ji Y, Liu F, Li D, Chen Z, Chen P. Spatial–Temporal Patterns of Sympatric Asiatic Black Bears (Ursus thibetanus) and Brown Bears (Ursus arctos) in Northeastern China. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12101262. [PMID: 35625108 PMCID: PMC9137604 DOI: 10.3390/ani12101262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Studying the spatial and temporal interactions between sympatric animal species is essential for understanding the mechanisms of interspecific coexistence. Both Asiatic black bears (Ursus thibetanus) and brown bears (Ursus arctos) inhabit northeastern China, but their spatial–temporal patterns and the mechanism of coexistence were unclear until now. Camera traps were set in Heilongjiang Taipinggou National Nature Reserve (TPGNR) from January 2017 to December 2017 to collect photos of the two sympatric bear species. The Pianka index, kernel density estimation, and the coefficient of overlap were used to analyze the spatial and temporal patterns of the two sympatric species. Our findings indicated that the spatial overlap between Asiatic black bears and brown bears was low, as Asiatic black bears occupied higher elevations than brown bears. The two species’ temporal activity patterns were similar at sites where only one species existed, yet they were different at the co–occurrence sites. Asiatic black bears and brown bears are competitors in this area, but they can coexist by changing their daily activity patterns. Compared to brown bears, Asiatic black bears behaved more diurnally. Our study revealed distinct spatial and temporal differentiation within the two species in TPGNR, which can reduce interspecific competition and facilitate coexistence between them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunrui Ji
- Ecology and Nature Conservation Institute, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing 100091, China; (Y.J.); (D.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Biodiversity Conservation, State Forestry and Grassland Administration, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Fang Liu
- Ecology and Nature Conservation Institute, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing 100091, China; (Y.J.); (D.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Biodiversity Conservation, State Forestry and Grassland Administration, Beijing 100091, China
- Correspondence: (F.L.); (P.C.)
| | - Diqiang Li
- Ecology and Nature Conservation Institute, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing 100091, China; (Y.J.); (D.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Biodiversity Conservation, State Forestry and Grassland Administration, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Zhiyu Chen
- The Administration of Duluhe Provincial Wetland Nature Reserve, Hegang 154100, China;
| | - Peng Chen
- College of Landscape Architecture, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
- Correspondence: (F.L.); (P.C.)
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15
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Chiaverini L, Macdonald DW, Bothwell HM, Hearn AJ, Cheyne SM, Haidir I, Hunter LTB, Kaszta Ż, Macdonald EA, Ross J, Cushman SA. Multi‐scale, multivariate community models improve designation of biodiversity hotspots in the Sunda Islands. Anim Conserv 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/acv.12771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- L. Chiaverini
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, The Recanati‐Kaplan Centre University of Oxford Tubney UK
| | - D. W. Macdonald
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, The Recanati‐Kaplan Centre University of Oxford Tubney UK
| | - H. M. Bothwell
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, The Recanati‐Kaplan Centre University of Oxford Tubney UK
- Research School of Biology Australian National University Canberra ACT Australia
| | - A. J. Hearn
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, The Recanati‐Kaplan Centre University of Oxford Tubney UK
| | - S. M. Cheyne
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, The Recanati‐Kaplan Centre University of Oxford Tubney UK
- Borneo Nature Foundation Palangka Raya Indonesia
| | - I. Haidir
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, The Recanati‐Kaplan Centre University of Oxford Tubney UK
- Directorate of Conservation Area Planning, Directorate General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation Ministry of Environment and Forestry Jakarta Indonesia
| | - L. T. B. Hunter
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Indonesia Program Bogor Indonesia
| | - Ż Kaszta
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, The Recanati‐Kaplan Centre University of Oxford Tubney UK
| | - E. A. Macdonald
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, The Recanati‐Kaplan Centre University of Oxford Tubney UK
| | - J. Ross
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, The Recanati‐Kaplan Centre University of Oxford Tubney UK
| | - S. A. Cushman
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, The Recanati‐Kaplan Centre University of Oxford Tubney UK
- Rocky Mountain Research Station, United States Forest Service Flagstaff AZ USA
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16
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Rezaei S, Mohammadi A, Malakoutikhah S, Khosravi R. Combining multiscale niche modeling, landscape connectivity, and gap analysis to prioritize habitats for conservation of striped hyaena (Hyaena hyaena). PLoS One 2022; 17:e0260807. [PMID: 35143518 PMCID: PMC8830629 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying spatial gaps in conservation networks requires information on species-environment relationships, and prioritization of habitats and corridors. We combined multi-extent niche modeling, landscape connectivity, and gap analysis to investigate scale-dependent environmental relationships, and identify core habitats and corridors for a little-known carnivore in Iran, the striped hyaena (Hyaena hyaena). This species is threatened in Iran by road vehicle collisions and direct killing. Therefore, understanding the factors that affect its habitat suitability, spatial pattern of distribution, and connectivity among them are prerequisite steps to delineate strategies aiming at human-striped hyaena co-existence. The results showed that the highest predictive power and extent of habitats was obtained at the extent sizes of 4 and 2 km, respectively. Also, connectivity analysis revealed that the extent and number of core habitats and corridors changed with increasing dispersal distance, and approximately 21% of the landscape was found to support corridors. The results of gap analysis showed that 15–17% of the core habitats overlapped with conservation areas. Given the body size of the species, its mobility, and lack of significant habitat specialization we conclude that this species would be more strongly influenced by changes in habitat amount rather than landscape configuration. Our approach showed that the scale of variables and dispersal ability must be accounted for in conservation efforts to prioritize habitats and corridors, and designing conservation areas. Our results could facilitate the conservation of striped hyaena through the identification and prioritization of habitats, establishment of conservation areas, and mitigating conflicts in corridors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Rezaei
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States of America
| | - Alireza Mohammadi
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Jiroft, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Shima Malakoutikhah
- Department of Environmental science, Faculty of Natural resources, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Rasoul Khosravi
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Engineering, College of Agriculture, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
- * E-mail:
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17
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Abstract
Using camera-trap data, we describe the ecology and occupancy of several species of gamebirds while assessing associations at Namha National Protected Area (Lao People’s Democratic Republic). We detected three species of Arborophila Partridges, albeit in low numbers. Red Junglefowl Gallus gallus show typical diurnal activity, and we provide a record of a male–female pair commensally associated with a boar Sus scrofa. Silver Pheasants Lophura nycthemera have sex ratios slightly favoring females, and are mostly solitary; we provide novel findings of male age structure and rectrix molt. Gray Peacock Pheasants Polyplectron bicalcaratum sex ratios also favor females; males are recorded displaying as early as late February, while daily activity is somewhat bimodal, and we provide novel findings of male age structure. Analysis of the association between occupancy and 14 environmental covariates indicated that Silver Pheasant and Gray Peacock-Pheasant were associated with rougher terrain, and Red Junglefowl had higher occupancy far from well-groomed trails used for tourism. We discuss our results by comparing and contrasting our findings with other studies, and consider implications for conservation in the region.
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Investigating Carnivore Guild Structure: Spatial and Temporal Relationships amongst Threatened Felids in Myanmar. ISPRS INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GEO-INFORMATION 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/ijgi10120808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The co-occurrence of felid species in Southeast Asia provides an unusual opportunity to investigate guild structure and the factors controlling it. Using camera-trap data, we quantified the space use, temporal activity, and multi-dimensional niche overlap of the tiger, clouded leopard, Asiatic golden cat, marbled cat, and leopard cat in the Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary, Myanmar. We hypothesised that the spatio-temporal behaviour of smaller cats would reflect the avoidance of the larger cats, and similar-sized guild members would partition their niches in space or time to reduce resource competition. Our approach involved modelling single-species occupancy, pairwise spatial overlap using Bayesian inference, activity overlap with kernel density estimation, and multivariate analyses. The felid assembly appeared to be partitioned mainly on a spatial rather than temporal dimension, and no significant evidence of mesopredator release was observed. Nonetheless, the temporal association between the three mesopredators was inversely related to the similarity in their body sizes. The largest niche differences in the use of space and time occurred between the three smallest species. This study offers new insight into carnivore guild assembly and adds substantially to knowledge of five of the least known felids of conservation concern.
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Temporal activity patterns suggesting niche partitioning of sympatric carnivores in Borneo, Malaysia. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19819. [PMID: 34615956 PMCID: PMC8494825 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-99341-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
To propose proper conservation measures and to elucidate coexistence mechanisms of sympatric carnivore species, we assessed temporal activity patterns of the sympatric carnivore species using 37,379 photos collected for more than 3 years at three study sites in Borneo. We categorized activity patterns of nine carnivore species (one bear, three civets, two felids, one skunk, one mustelid, one linsang) by calculating the photo-capturing proportions at each time period (day, night, twilight). We then evaluated temporal activity overlaps by calculating the overlap coefficients. We identified six nocturnal (three civets, one felid, one skunk, one linsang), two diurnal (one felid, one mustelid), and one cathemeral (bear) species. Temporal activity overlaps were high among the nocturnal species. The two felid species possessing morphological and ecological similarities exhibited clear temporal niche segregation, but the three civet species with similar morphology and ecology did not. Broad dietary breadth may compensate for the high temporal niche overlaps among the nocturnal species. Despite the high species richness of Bornean carnivores, almost half are threatened with extinction. By comparing individual radio-tracking and our data, we propose that a long-term study of at least 2 or 3 years is necessary to understand animals’ temporal activity patterns, especially for sun bears and civets, by camera-trapping and to establish effective protection measures.
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20
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First records of the flat-headed cat Prionailurus planiceps on the Kampar Peninsula, Sumatra, Indonesia. ORYX 2021. [DOI: 10.1017/s0030605321000132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The flat-headed cat Prionailurus planiceps is one of the rarest small felids, with little known about its distribution, population status or habitat requirements, largely because of the few records of the species. We report here 11 detections of this Endangered species, recorded during 4 years of camera-trap surveys in a peat-swamp forest on the Kampar Peninsula, Riau province, Sumatra. These are the first records of this species on the Kampar Peninsula, in an area of c. 1,300 km2 of peat-swamp forest comprising four adjacent Ecosystem Restoration Concession licences. All records were near water bodies (mean distance 351 m) in lowland peat-swamp forest. These findings add to the existing knowledge of the species' distribution in Sumatra and confirm its presence in these peat-swamp forests. To inform species conservation management planning for the Kampar Peninsula, further research on this species is required.
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21
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Contreras-Díaz CA, Soria-Díaz L, Gómez-Ortiz Y, Carrera-Treviño R, Astudillo-Sánchez CC, Chacón-Hernández JC, Martínez-García LF. Temporal and spatial segregation of top predators (Felidae) in a Mexican tropical Biosphere Reserve. ZOOLOGIA 2021. [DOI: 10.3897/zoologia.38.e63231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Jaguars, Panthera onca (Linnaeus, 1758), and pumas, Puma concolor (Linnaeus, 1771) are the largest felids in the neotropics. Both can overlap in niche axes (time, space and prey), and are therefore potentially competing species. Segregation mechanisms presented by a low overlap in one of these axes of niche can facilitate the coexistence. Our aim was to analyze jaguar and puma temporal and spatial overlap for understanding their segregation mechanisms. Between 2015 and 2017, twenty-six camera trap stations were located in five habitat types of El Cielo Biosphere Reserve (ECBR) in northeastern Mexico. Temporal activity was analyzed using circular statistics and time overlap analysis. Spatial overlap was calculated with the Pianka index and a selectivity habitat analysis. Our results showed that jaguars and pumas were nocturnal and that the temporal overlap was high (∆4 = 0.77). We found an intermediate spatial overlap (Pianka index = 0.61). Jaguars were more selective and preferred the deciduous forest. In comparison, pumas preferred oak-pine forest, but also used oak and deciduous forest. Our results indicate that spatial segregation best explains the coexistence of jaguars and pumas in our study area, probably due to both habitat diversity in the reserve and the generalist habits of the puma.
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22
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Beilke EA, Blakey RV, O’Keefe JM. Bats partition activity in space and time in a large, heterogeneous landscape. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:6513-6526. [PMID: 34141236 PMCID: PMC8207427 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.7504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Diverse species assemblages theoretically partition along multiple resource axes to maintain niche separation between all species. Temporal partitioning has received less attention than spatial or dietary partitioning but may facilitate niche separation when species overlap along other resource axes. We conducted a broad-scale acoustic study of the diverse and heterogeneous Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the Appalachian Mountains. Between 2015 and 2016, we deployed acoustic bat detectors at 50 sites (for a total of 322 survey nights). We examined spatiotemporal patterns of bat activity (by phonic group: Low, Mid, and Myotis) to test the hypothesis that bats partition both space and time. Myotis and Low bats were the most spatially and temporally dissimilar, while Mid bats were more general in their resource use. Low bats were active in early successional openings or low-elevation forests, near water, and early in the evening. Mid bats were similarly active in all land cover classes, regardless of distance from water, throughout the night. Myotis avoided early successional openings and were active in forested land cover classes, near water, and throughout the night. Myotis and Mid bats did not alter their spatial activity patterns from 2015 to 2016, while Low bats did. We observed disparate temporal activity peaks between phonic groups that varied between years and by land cover class. The temporal separation between phonic groups relaxed from 2015 to 2016, possibly related to changes in the relative abundance of bats or changes in insect abundance or diversity. Temporal separation was more pronounced in the land cover classes that saw greater overall bat activity. These findings support the hypothesis that niche separation in diverse assemblages may occur along multiple resource axes and adds to the growing body of evidence that bats partition their temporal activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A. Beilke
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental SciencesUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaILUSA
- Center for Bat Research, Outreach, and ConservationIndiana State UniversityTerre HauteINUSA
| | - Rachel V. Blakey
- La Kretz Center for California Conservation ScienceInstitute of the Environment and SustainabilityUniversity of CaliforniaLos AngelesCAUSA
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary BiologyUniversity of CaliforniaLos AngelesCAUSA
| | - Joy M. O’Keefe
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental SciencesUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaILUSA
- Center for Bat Research, Outreach, and ConservationIndiana State UniversityTerre HauteINUSA
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23
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Kaszta Ż, Cushman SA, Slotow R. Temporal Non-stationarity of Path-Selection Movement Models and Connectivity: An Example of African Elephants in Kruger National Park. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.553263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Effective conservation and land management require robust understanding of how landscape features spatially and temporally affect population distribution, abundance and connectivity. This is especially important for keystone species known to shape ecosystems, such as the African elephant (Loxodonta africana). This work investigates monthly patterns of elephant movement and connectivity in Kruger National Park (KNP; South Africa), and their temporal relationship with landscape features over a 12-month period associated with the occurrence of a severe drought. Based on elephant locations from GPS collars with a short acquisition interval, we explored the monthly patterns of spatial-autocorrelation of elephant movement using Mantel correlograms, and we developed scale-optimized monthly path-selection movement and resistant kernel connectivity models. Our results showed high variability in patterns of autocorrelation in elephant movements across individuals and months, with a preponderance of directional movement, which we believe is related to drought induced range shifts. We also found high non-stationarity of monthly movement and connectivity models; most models exhibited qualitative similarity in the general nature of the predicted ecological relationships, but large quantitative differences in predicted landscape resistance and connectivity across the year. This suggests high variation in space-utilization and temporal shifts of core habitat areas for elephants in KNP. Even during extreme drought, rainfall itself was not a strong driver of elephant movement; elephant movements, instead, were strongly driven by selection for green vegetation and areas near waterholes and small rivers. Our findings highlight a potentially serious problem in using movement models from a particular temporal snapshot to infer general landscape effects on movement. Conservation and management strategies focusing only on certain areas identified by temporarily idiosyncratic models might not be appropriate or efficient as a guide for allocating scarce resources for management or for understanding general ecological relationships.
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24
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Gil-Sánchez JM, Mañá-Varela B, Herrera-Sánchez FJ, Urios V. Spatio-temporal ecology of a carnivore community in middle atlas, NW of Morocco. ZOOLOGY 2021; 146:125904. [PMID: 33691263 DOI: 10.1016/j.zool.2021.125904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In species that live in sympatry, some dimensions of their ecological niche can overlap, but coexistence is possible thanks to segregation strategies, being the differential use of space and time one of the most frequent. Through a pioneer study in North-West Africa based on a camera-trapping survey, we studied ecology features of a carnivores' community in the Middle Atlas Mountains, Morocco. We focused on how species shared (or not) the territory and their activity patterns. Camera trapping detected five carnivorous species: African golden wolf (Canis lupaster), red fox (Vulpes vulpes), domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris), genet (Genetta genetta) and African wildcat (Felis lybica lybica). Generalized Linear Models confirmed different habitat selection patterns between these species. The presence of a small protected area or prey availability apparently were not determinant factors in the abundance of these species. Spatial segregation patterns were observed between the red fox with the domestic dog and between the red fox with the genet. Kernel density estimates showed strong temporal segregation of red fox and African golden wolf with regard to domestic dog, and suggested avoidance mechanisms for the triad red fox, genet and African golden wolf. Despite the influence of interspecific competition in the assembly of the community, human pressure was apparently the most relevant factor related with the spatio-temporal segregation in this territory.
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Affiliation(s)
- José María Gil-Sánchez
- Departamento de Zoología, Universidad de Granada, Avda. de Fuente Nueva, s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Brais Mañá-Varela
- Departamento de Zoología, Universidad de Granada, Avda. de Fuente Nueva, s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain.
| | - F Javier Herrera-Sánchez
- Harmusch, Association for the Study and Conservation of Wildlife. C/ San Antón 15, 1º. E 13580 Almodóvar del Campo, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Vicente Urios
- Grupo de Investigación Zoología de Vertebrados, Universidad de Alicante, Campus San Vicente del Raspeig, Edificio Ciencias III, Alicante 03080, Spain
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25
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Dar SA, Singh SK, Wan HY, Kumar V, Cushman SA, Sathyakumar S. Projected climate change threatens Himalayan brown bear habitat more than human land use. Anim Conserv 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/acv.12671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- S. A. Dar
- Wildlife Institute of India Dehradun India
| | | | - H. Y. Wan
- Department of Wildlife Humboldt State University Arcata CA USA
| | - V. Kumar
- Wildlife Institute of India Dehradun India
| | - S. A. Cushman
- USDA Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station Flagstaff AZ USA
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26
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Shankar A, Salaria N, Sanil R, Chackaravarthy SD, Shameer TT. Spatio-Temporal Association of Fishing Cats with the Mammalian Assemblages in the East Godavari Mangrove Delta, India. MAMMAL STUDY 2020. [DOI: 10.3106/ms2020-0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anant Shankar
- Divisional Forest Office (Wildlife), Forest Circle Office Complex, Opp Arts College, Nehru nagar, Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh, India, 533103
| | - Nandani Salaria
- Divisional Forest Office, Madhava Nagar, Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India, 53303
| | - Raveendranathanpillai Sanil
- Molecular Biodiversity Lab, Department of Zoology and Wildlife Biology, Government Arts College, Udhagamandalam - 643002, The Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Thekke Thumbath Shameer
- Molecular Biodiversity Lab, Department of Zoology and Wildlife Biology, Government Arts College, Udhagamandalam - 643002, The Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
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27
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Vilella M, Ferrandiz‐Rovira M, Sayol F. Coexistence of predators in time: Effects of season and prey availability on species activity within a Mediterranean carnivore guild. Ecol Evol 2020; 10:11408-11422. [PMID: 33144974 PMCID: PMC7593183 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.6778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The degree of coexistence among predators can determine the structure of ecological communities. Niche partitioning is a common strategy applied by species to enhance their coexistence. Diet, habitat, or time use can be responsible for segregation among carnivore species, the latter factor being the least studied in Mediterranean ecosystems. Terrestrial medium-sized carnivores (i.e., mesocarnivores) carry out important functions in ecosystems, and identifying their interactions is essential for their conservation.In this study, we explore the activity of a terrestrial mesocarnivore guild in order to determine seasonal differences in daily activity patterns of competitors and prey. We also investigate how the abundance of a common mesocarnivore prey in the region, small mammals, influences the activity of predators.During a year, camera trap devices (n = 18) were installed in Montseny Natural Park (Catalan Pre-Coastal Range, North-East Iberian Peninsula), a region that hosts five mesocarnivore species. Camera trapping detections were used to estimate their daily activity patterns and corresponding overlaps. We also surveyed small mammal plots (n = 5) in order to calculate prey abundance and test its effect on the relative activity of each carnivore species.Despite all target mesocarnivores are mainly nocturnal, the activity overlap among them varies according to species particularities and season. Red fox (Vulpes vulpes) appears as a generalist species in terms of time use, whereas stone marten (Martes foina) and genet (Genetta genetta) show the most similar activity patterns and both of them seem to be positively influenced by small mammal abundance. Overall, the diversity found in the way mesocarnivore species use time could facilitate their coexistence.Despite activity pattern similarities among carnivore species should not be directly translated to negative interactions, they can have a strong influence in habitat and resource-limited ecosystems. Therefore, activity overlaps should be taken into account when discussing wildlife management actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Vilella
- Delegació d’Osona (GNO‐ICHN)Institució Catalana d’Història NaturalVicSpain
| | - Mariona Ferrandiz‐Rovira
- CREAFCerdanyola del VallèsCataloniaSpain
- Universitat Autònoma de BarcelonaCerdanyola del VallèsCataloniaSpain
| | - Ferran Sayol
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment ResearchDepartment of Genetics, Evolution and EnvironmentUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- Department of Biological and Environmental SciencesUniversity of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
- Gothenburg Global Biodiversity CentreGothenburgSweden
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28
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Abstract
AbstractTemporal partitioning can allow sympatric carnivores to coexist, especially if overlap of other resources is high. Using camera trap data from 2013 to 2017, we investigated the temporal partitioning of a community of wild felids and a canid in Nam Et–Phou Louey National Protected Area, Laos, to determine the extent to which temporal avoidance might be facilitating coexistence of similarly sized carnivores. We also investigated temporal overlap of these carnivore species and their presumed main prey, to determine if their activity is likely most influenced by their prey or potential competitors. The dhole (Cuon alpinus) and clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa), the two largest carnivores, had low temporal overlap, and activity appeared to be synchronized with the main prey for dhole, but not clouded leopard. Thus, it was possible that clouded leopard used temporal partitioning to coexist with dhole. The temporal overlap of Asian golden cat (Catopuma temminckii) was high with clouded leopard and moderate with dhole, and overall appeared to be influenced most by its presumed prey species, rather than by its potential competitors. The two small felids had the least temporal overlap between any species, as the marbled cat (Pardofelis marmorata) was primarily diurnal whereas the leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis) was primarily nocturnal. Given that the two small felids reportedly have similar diets consisting of small rodents and birds, their temporal partitioning is likely to help facilitate their coexistence. For carnivore species in northern Laos that are most similar in body size and diet, temporal partitioning is likely to be an important mechanism of coexistence. Otherwise, temporal patterns appear to be synchronized with their main prey.
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29
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Sévêque A, Gentle LK, López-Bao JV, Yarnell RW, Uzal A. Human disturbance has contrasting effects on niche partitioning within carnivore communities. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2020; 95:1689-1705. [PMID: 32666614 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Among species, coexistence is driven partly by the partitioning of available resources. The mechanisms of coexistence and competition among species have been a central topic within community ecology, with particular focus on mammalian carnivore community research. However, despite growing concern regarding the impact of humans on the behaviour of species, very little is known about the effect of humans on species interactions. The aim of this review is to establish a comprehensive framework for the impacts of human disturbance on three dimensions (spatial, temporal and trophic) of niche partitioning within carnivore communities and subsequent effects on both intraguild competition and community structure. We conducted a systematic review of the literature on carnivore niche partitioning (246 studies) and extracted 46 reported effects of human disturbance. We found evidence that human disturbance impacts resource partitioning, either positively or negatively, in all three niche dimensions. The repercussions of such variations are highly heterogeneous and differ according to both the type of human disturbance and how the landscape and/or availability of resources are affected. We propose a theoretical framework of the three main outcomes for the impacts of human disturbance on intraguild competition and carnivore community structure: (i) human disturbance impedes niche partitioning, increasing intraguild competition and reducing the richness and diversity of the community; (ii) human disturbance unbalances niche partitioning and intraguild competition, affecting community stability; and (iii) human disturbance facilitates niche partitioning, decreasing intraguild competition and enriching the community. We call for better integration of the impact of humans on carnivore communities in future research on interspecific competition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Sévêque
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottinghamshire, NG25 0QF, UK
| | - Louise K Gentle
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottinghamshire, NG25 0QF, UK
| | - José V López-Bao
- Research Unit of Biodiversity (UO/CSIC/PA), Oviedo University, Mieres, 33600, Spain
| | - Richard W Yarnell
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottinghamshire, NG25 0QF, UK
| | - Antonio Uzal
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottinghamshire, NG25 0QF, UK
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30
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Atzeni L, Cushman SA, Bai D, Wang J, Chen P, Shi K, Riordan P. Meta-replication, sampling bias, and multi-scale model selection: A case study on snow leopard ( Panthera uncia) in western China. Ecol Evol 2020; 10:7686-7712. [PMID: 32760557 PMCID: PMC7391562 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.6492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Replicated multiple scale species distribution models (SDMs) have become increasingly important to identify the correct variables determining species distribution and their influences on ecological responses. This study explores multi-scale habitat relationships of the snow leopard (Panthera uncia) in two study areas on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau of western China. Our primary objectives were to evaluate the degree to which snow leopard habitat relationships, expressed by predictors, scales of response, and magnitude of effects, were consistent across study areas or locally landcape-specific. We coupled univariate scale optimization and the maximum entropy algorithm to produce multivariate SDMs, inferring the relative suitability for the species by ensembling top performing models. We optimized the SDMs based on average omission rate across the top models and ensembles' overlap with a simulated reference model. Comparison of SDMs in the two study areas highlighted landscape-specific responses to limiting factors. These were dependent on the effects of the hydrological network, anthropogenic features, topographic complexity, and the heterogeneity of the landcover patch mosaic. Overall, even accounting for specific local differences, we found general landscape attributes associated with snow leopard ecological requirements, consisting of a positive association with uplands and ridges, aggregated low-contrast landscapes, and large extents of grassy and herbaceous vegetation. As a means to evaluate the performance of two bias correction methods, we explored their effects on three datasets showing a range of bias intensities. The performance of corrections depends on the bias intensity; however, density kernels offered a reliable correction strategy under all circumstances. This study reveals the multi-scale response of snow leopards to environmental attributes and confirms the role of meta-replicated study designs for the identification of spatially varying limiting factors. Furthermore, this study makes important contributions to the ongoing discussion about the best approaches for sampling bias correction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciano Atzeni
- Wildlife InstituteSchool of Ecology and Nature ConservationBeijing Forestry UniversityBeijingChina
| | | | - Defeng Bai
- Wildlife InstituteSchool of Ecology and Nature ConservationBeijing Forestry UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Jun Wang
- Wildlife InstituteSchool of Ecology and Nature ConservationBeijing Forestry UniversityBeijingChina
- Faculty of Science and EngineeringManchester Metropolitan UniversityManchesterUK
| | - Pengju Chen
- Wildlife InstituteSchool of Ecology and Nature ConservationBeijing Forestry UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Kun Shi
- Wildlife InstituteSchool of Ecology and Nature ConservationBeijing Forestry UniversityBeijingChina
- Eco‐Bridge ContinentalBeijingChina
| | - Philip Riordan
- Wildlife InstituteSchool of Ecology and Nature ConservationBeijing Forestry UniversityBeijingChina
- Marwell WildlifeWinchesterUK
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31
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Havmøller RW, Jacobsen NS, Scharff N, Rovero F, Zimmermann F. Assessing the activity pattern overlap among leopards (
Panthera pardus
), potential prey and competitors in a complex landscape in Tanzania. J Zool (1987) 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R. W. Havmøller
- Center for Macroecology, Evolution and Climate Natural History Museum of Denmark University of Copenhagen Copenhagen OE Denmark
- Department for Evolutionary Genomics Natural History Museum of Denmark University of Copenhagen Copenhagen K Denmark
- Department of Anthropology University of California Davis CA USA
| | - N. S. Jacobsen
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences University of Washington Seattle WA USA
- Centre for Ocean Life Technical University of Denmark Charlottenlund Denmark
| | - N. Scharff
- Research and Collections Natural History Museum of Denmark University of Copenhagen Copenhagen OE Denmark
| | - F. Rovero
- Department of Biology University of Florence Sesto Fiorentino Italy
- Tropical Biodiversity Section MUSE‐Museo Delle Scienze Trento Italy
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32
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Sánchez‐Barradas A, Villalobos F. Species geographical co‐occurrence and the effect of Grinnellian and Eltonian niche partitioning: The case of a Neotropical felid assemblage. Ecol Res 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/1440-1703.12070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Sánchez‐Barradas
- Laboratorio de Macroecología Evolutiva, Red de Biología Evolutiva Instituto de Ecología, A.C. Veracruz México
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Instituto de Ecología, A.C. Veracruz México
| | - Fabricio Villalobos
- Laboratorio de Macroecología Evolutiva, Red de Biología Evolutiva Instituto de Ecología, A.C. Veracruz México
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33
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Macdonald DW, Bothwell HM, Kaszta Ż, Ash E, Bolongon G, Burnham D, Can ÖE, Campos‐Arceiz A, Channa P, Clements GR, Hearn AJ, Hedges L, Htun S, Kamler JF, Kawanishi K, Macdonald EA, Mohamad SW, Moore J, Naing H, Onuma M, Penjor U, Rasphone A, Mark Rayan D, Ross J, Singh P, Tan CKW, Wadey J, Yadav BP, Cushman SA. Multi‐scale habitat modelling identifies spatial conservation priorities for mainland clouded leopards (
Neofelis nebulosa
). DIVERS DISTRIB 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/ddi.12967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
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34
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Chambers JC, Allen CR, Cushman SA. Operationalizing Ecological Resilience Concepts for Managing Species and Ecosystems at Risk. Front Ecol Evol 2019. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2019.00241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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