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Abstract: Among factors affecting animal health, environmental influences may directly or indirectly impact host nutritional condition, fecundity, and their degree of parasitism. Our closest relatives, the great apes, are all endangered and particularly sensitive to infectious diseases. Both chimpanzees and western gorillas experience large seasonal variations in fruit availability but only western gorillas accordingly show large changes in their degree of frugivory. The aim of this study is to investigate and compare factors affecting health (through records of clinical signs, urine, and faecal samples) of habituated wild ape populations: a community (N = 46 individuals) of chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) in Kanyawara, Kibale National Park (Uganda), and a western gorilla (G. gorilla) group (N = 13) in Bai Hokou in the Dzanga-Ndoki National Park (Central African Republic). Ape health monitoring was carried out in the wet and dry seasons (chimpanzees: July-December 2006; gorillas: April-July 2008 and December 2008-February 2009). Compared to chimpanzees, western gorillas were shown to have marginally greater parasite diversity, higher prevalence and intensity of both parasite and urine infections, and lower occurrence of diarrhea and wounds. Parasite infections (prevalence and load), but not abnormal urine parameters, were significantly higher during the dry season of the study period for western gorillas, who thus appeared more affected by the large temporal changes in the environment in comparison to chimpanzees. Infant gorillas were the most susceptible among all the age/sex classes (of both apes) having much more intense infections and urine blood concentrations, again during the dry season. Long term studies are needed to confirm the influence of seasonal factors on health and parasitism of these great apes. However, this study suggest climate change and forest fragmentation leading to potentially larger seasonal fluctuations of the environment may affect patterns of ape parasitism and further exacerbate health impacts on great ape populations that live in highly seasonal habitats. © 2012 Masi et al.
Source title: PLoS ONE
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0049805
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84870844017&doi=10.1371%2fjournal.pone.0049805&partnerID=40&md5=2800028de86628df456edc77360b682c
Correspondence Address: Masi, S.; Muséum national d'histoire naturelle, Departement Hommes, Natures, Societés UMR 7206 Éco-anthropologie et Ethnobiologie, Paris, France; email: masi@mnhn.fr
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Central African Republic ;
Protected area: Dzanga-Ndoki
Main topic: Health
Subtopic: Animal health

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Abstract: Globally, tropical forest soils represent the second largest source of N 2O and NO. However, there is still considerable uncertainty on the spatial variability and soil properties controlling N trace gas emission. Therefore, we carried out an incubation experiment with soils from 31 locations in the Nyungwe tropical mountain forest in southwestern Rwanda. All soils were incubated at three different moisture levels (50, 70 and 90 % water filled pore space (WFPS)) at 17 °C. Nitrous oxide emission varied between 4.5 and 400 ?g N m -2 hg -1, while NO emission varied from 6.6 to 265?g N mg -2 h -1. Mean N2O emission at different moisture levels was 46.5 ± 11.1 (50 %WFPS), 71.7±11.5 (70 %WFPS) and 98.8±16.4 (90 %WFPS) ?g N mg -2 h -1, while mean NO emission was 69.3±9.3 (50 %WFPS), 47.1±5.8 (70 %WFPS) and 36.1±4.2 (90 %WFPS) ?g N m -2 h -1. The latter suggests that climate (i.e. dry vs. wet season) controls N 2O and NO emissions. Positive correlations with soil carbon and nitrogen indicate a biological control over N 2O and NO production. But interestingly N 2O and NO emissions also showed a positive correlation with free iron and a negative correlation with soil pH (only N 2O). The latter suggest that chemo-denitrification might, at least for N 2O, be an important production pathway. In conclusion improved understanding and process based modeling of N trace gas emission from tropical forests will benefit from spatially explicit trace gas emission estimates linked to basic soil property data and differentiating between biological and chemical pathways for N trace gas formation. © 2012 Author(s). CC Attribution 3.0 License.
Source title: Biogeosciences
DOI: 10.5194/bg-9-1451-2012
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84860242493&doi=10.5194%2fbg-9-1451-2012&partnerID=40&md5=2699627ae13e1567831a03a79b504a4d
Correspondence Address: Gharahi Ghehi, N.; Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Isotope Bioscience Laboratory - ISOFYS, Ghent UniversityBelgium; email: nasrin.gharahighehi@ugent.be
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Rwanda ;
Protected area: Nyungwe
Main topic: Environment
Subtopic: Geology / Pedology

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Abstract: The author presents the first work on two surveys in the National Park of Ivindo in Gabon. He examines the genus Afrasura Durante, 2009, describes the female of A. emma Durante, 2009, and five new species: A. trunca sp. n., A. camilla sp. n., A. duplex sp. n., A. aetheria sp. n., A. fracta sp. n., of which the last four belong to the newly proposed A. submarmorata species group. Copyright © 2012 Magnolia Press.
Source title: Zootaxa
DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.3478.1.34
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84866239754&doi=10.11646%2fzootaxa.3478.1.34&partnerID=40&md5=4d09ab0d62cbd89ba96ca77783fa3eb2
Correspondence Address: Durante, A.; Museo di Storia Naturale Del Salento, via Europa, 95., 73021, Calimera, Italy; email: antonio.durante@msns.i
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Gabon ;
Protected area: Ivindo
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Animals ; Invertebrates ; Survey / Monitoring ; Taxonomy ; Biology / Ecology

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Abstract: Based on herbaria specimens and especially on samples recently collected in the area, a revision of the hornwort genera Dendroceros and Megaceros in the African archipelago of São Tomé e Principe is presented. The four resulting species are described and illustrated, with comments on their distribution and ecology. A new species of Dendroceros is proposed, D. paivae C. Garcia, Sérgio et Villarreal sp. nov., which is distinguished by delicate thallus, long and slender capsules, distinct spore ornamentation and a particular epiphyllous ecology, growing closely adherent to living leaves. The new hornwort is rare and localized but abundant where found. Also the presence of Dendroceros crispatus Nees in Africa is confirmed. The genus Megaceros is reported for the first time from São Tomé e Príncipe, corresponding to the second report from Africa of M. flagellars (Mitt.) Steph. A key to the Dendrocerotaceae from São Tomé e Príncipe is presented. © 2012 Adac. Tous droits réservés.
Source title: Cryptogamie, Bryologie
DOI: 10.7872/cryb.v33.iss1.2012.003
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84857292413&doi=10.7872%2fcryb.v33.iss1.2012.003&partnerID=40&md5=3f5f7a6293a8b972e4f1b25fee820aa7
Correspondence Address: Garcia, C.; Universidade de Lisboa, Museu Nacional de História Natural, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Rua da Escola Politécnica, 58, 1250-102 Lisboa, Portugal; email: cgarcia@fc.ul.pt
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; São Tomé and Príncipe ;
Protected area: Parque Natural Obô de São Tomé
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Plants ; Taxonomy ; Biology / Ecology

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Abstract: The increased number of primates living in fragmented habitats necessitates greater knowledge of how they cope with large-scale changes to their environment. Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) are exceptionally vulnerable to forest fragmentation; however, little is known about chimpanzee feeding ecology in fragments. Although chimpanzees have been shown to prefer fruit when it is available and fall back on more abundant lower quality foods during periods of fruit scarcity, our understanding of how chimpanzees use fallback foods in forest fragments is poor. We examined how chimpanzees cope with periods of fruit scarcity in Gishwati Forest Reserve, a disturbed montane rain forest fragment in Rwanda. We assessed seasonal changes in chimpanzee diet and the use of preferred and fallback foods through fecal and food site analysis. We also examined seasonal variation in nest group size and habitat use through marked nest censuses. We found that chimpanzees experienced a seasonal reduction in preferred fruit availability, which led to a seasonal diet shift to more fibrous foods, including several that functioned as fallback foods. Our results suggest that during periods of fruit scarcity the chimpanzees also reduced nest group size. However, we found that the chimpanzees did not alter their habitat use between high- and low-fruit seasons, which suggests that the small size of the forest limits their ability to change their seasonal habitat use. Consequently, fallback foods appear to be particularly important in small food-impoverished habitats with limited ranging options. © 2011 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.
Source title: International Journal of Primatology
DOI: 10.1007/s10764-011-9561-4
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84857138900&doi=10.1007%2fs10764-011-9561-4&partnerID=40&md5=46aa81f6c53768a8d0ede979b0f9b227
Correspondence Address: Chancellor, R. L.; Department of Anthropology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, United States; email: rlchancellor@ucdavis.edu
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Rwanda ;
Protected area: Gishwati-Mukura
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Animals ; Vertebrates ; Mammals ; Primates ; Biology / Ecology

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Abstract: Our recent phylogeographic study on the strictly savanna small rodent Nannomys minutoides revealed an unexpected pattern of divergence between populations occupying neighbouring savanna islands in Central Gabon, suggesting the historical and continuing fragmentation of these savanna habitats. In this study, we test this hypothesis using comparative phylogeography with another species of savanna rodent, Lemnhcomys striatus, using nested clade analysis (NCA) on cytochrome b sequences of 53 individuals, particularly checking for vicariance patterns in the Lopé National Park region. Lemniscomys striatus is characterized by a local structured pattern similar to that of N. minutoides. These new results further support the scenario of historical and ongoing fragmentation of the local savanna landscape which commenced in the upper Pleistocene, despite the repetitive savanna expansion episodes as documented by the landscape history. Geographic barriers most likely comprising forested areas, which prevent the mixing of local savanna rodent populations, must have persisted in this region. The presence of these barriers could not have been inferred from global paleoclimatic and paleoenvironmental analyses alone.
Source title: African Zoology
DOI: 10.3377/004.047.0216
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84874045523&doi=10.3377%2f004.047.0216&partnerID=40&md5=1e48c393f97ae9565a2212ac8c2c94d2
Correspondence Address: Mboumba, J.-F.; Université des Sciences et Techniques de Masuku, Département de Biologie, Franceville, Gabon; email: mboumbafr@yahoo.fr
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Gabon ;
Protected area: Lopé
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Animals ; Vertebrates ; Mammals ; Rodents ; Genetics ; Diversity ; Biology / Ecology

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Abstract: [No abstract available]
Source title: Earth
DOI:
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84857406168&partnerID=40&md5=8b2cebb6610ff8b2e7b6199b2a85f6c9
Correspondence Address: Szymborski, K.
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Democratic Republic of Congo ;
Protected area: Virunga
Main topic: Environment
Subtopic: Geology / Pedology ; Volcanism

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Abstract: The Ruvubu National Park, the biggest protected area and biodiversity refuge of the country, is comparatively less studied than western Burundi near Bujumbura, the capital. This article reports the results of a botanical inventory of the vascular plants from the protected area, evidences species newly encountered and establishes a comparison of the floristic diversity with the Akagera National Park in Rwanda located in the same phytochorion, in the Lake Victoria regional mosaic. Records from the Ruvubu include 522 species (including infraspecific groups) from 96 families and 306 genera, representing nearly 17% of the known vascular plants of Burundi. The most common families were the Fabaceae, the Asteraceae and the Poaceae. 96 species or 18% of the flora were encountered for the first time in the park. Study of environmental determinants of Leguminosae abundance and floristic variability would provide more precisions. © Publications Scientifiques du Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle, Paris.
Source title: Adansonia
DOI: 10.5252/a2012n1a17
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84864746961&doi=10.5252%2fa2012n1a17&partnerID=40&md5=739261d6207076fc441eccc550b0669c
Correspondence Address: Masharabu, T.; Université du Burundi, Faculté des Sciences, Département de Biologie, B.P. 2700, Bujumbura, Burundi; email: tmashara@ulb.ac.be
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Burundi ;
Protected area: Ruvubu
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Plants ; Survey / Monitoring ; Diversity

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Abstract: Intertidal mangrove ecosystems are sensitive to climate change impacts, particularly to associated relative sea level rise. Human stressors and low tidal range add to vulnerability, both characteristics of the Doula Estuary, Cameroon. To investigate vulnerability, spatial techniques were combined with ground surveys to map distributions of mangrove zones, and compare with historical spatial records to quantify change over the last few decades. Low technology techniques were used to establish the tidal range and relative elevation of the mapped mangrove area. Stratigraphic coring and palaeobiological reconstruction were used to show the longer term biological history of mangroves and net sedimentation rate, and oral history surveys of local communities were used to provide evidence of recent change and identify possible causes. Results showed that the seaward edge of mangroves had over two thirds of the shoreline experienced dieback at up to 3 m per year over the last three decades, and an offshore mangrove island had suffered 89% loss. Results also showed low net sedimentation rates under seaward edge mangroves, and restricted intertidal elevation habitats of all mangroves, and Avicennia and Laguncularia in particular. To reduce vulnerability, adaptation planning can be improved by reducing the non-climate stressors on the mangrove area, particularly those resulting from human impacts. Other priorities for adaptation planning in mangrove areas that are located in such low tidal range regions are to plan inland migration areas and strategic protected areas for mangroves, and to undertake management activities that enhance accretion within the mangroves. © 2012 by the authors; licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.
Source title: Biology
DOI: 10.3390/biology1030617
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84886392742&doi=10.3390%2fbiology1030617&partnerID=40&md5=0cb28d5dbc8feb7716d3f8aeb3a9a5e4
Correspondence Address: Ellison, J. C.; School of Geography and Environmental Studies, University of Tasmania, Locked Bag 1376, Launceston 7250, TAS, Australia; email: Joanna.Ellison@utas.edu.au
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Cameroon ;
Protected area: Douala Edéa ; Douala Edéa
Main topic: Environment
Subtopic: Land use / cover ; Wetlands / Water bodies

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Abstract: We studied the phylogeographical structure of Praomys misonnei (Rodentia: Muridae) in west-Central Africa based on 113 individuals from 31 localities and the sequencing of two mitochondrial genes (Cytb and CO1). Two clades can be identified through maximum likelihood, bayesian and network analyses: the first one is limited to the Korup National Park, while the second one has a broad geographical distribution in west-Central Africa. The second clade can be further divided into three sub-clades. The results of neutrality tests and mismatch distributions indicate that a population expansion occurred in these sub-clades. During the middle or upper Pleistocene, the west-Central African populations of P. misonnei may have been isolated in four different forest refugia, followed by population expansion and secondary contact during more humid periods. High genetic diversity was observed in the region of the Bakossi highlands, and the Cameroon Volcanic Line limits the geographical distribution of clades. Thus it seems likely that this volcanic line has in the past constituted a barrier that prevented the eastwest exchange between P. misonnei populations through the expansion of the montane forest habitat. Our results also highlight the role of the Sanaga and Ogoou-Ivindo rivers in shaping P. misonnei genetic structure.
Source title: African Zoology
DOI: 10.3377/004.047.0119
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84864253517&doi=10.3377%2f004.047.0119&partnerID=40&md5=53ac6024931733027b0cf5a83ee00a60
Correspondence Address: Nicolas, V.; Dpartement de Systmatique et Evolution, Musum National d'Histoire Naturelle, UMR 7205, 57 rue Cuvier, CP 51, 75005 Paris, France; email: vnicolas@mnhn.fr
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Cameroon ; Central African Republic ; Gabon ; Republic of Congo ;
Protected area: Many
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Animals ; Vertebrates ; Mammals ; Rodents ; Diversity ; Genetics

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Abstract: In the mountain forests of the Kahuzi-Biega National Park (KBNP), in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where Sericostachys scandens, a woody climbing plant in the Amaranthaceae family, is expanding, trees appear to be negatively affected by this liana. In order to contribute to the understanding of the links between the expansion of the liana and the decline of its hosts, we compared the density and the species richness of the trees of dbh (diameter at breast height) ?5 cm from the plots invaded by S. scandens with those from parcels that are still free from the invasion. The results of the paired unilateral t test applied to the overall sample showed that the tree density is very low in the plots dominated by the liana (p < 0.01), but that species richness is not affected (p > 0.05). In the class with diameter [10-30 cm], the lowest density of trees corresponds to the plots colonized by S. scandens, compared to the places where the liana is not abundant (p < 0.01). Further, the density of trees is significantly lower (p < 0.05) in the classes with diameters [5-10 cm] and ?30 cm, in plots dominated by S. scandens. In conclusion, the emergence of the liana S. scandens has a negative effect on the density of the trees in the mountain forest of the KBNP. © 2012 Springer-Verlag.
Source title: Regional Environmental Change
DOI: 10.1007/s10113-012-0309-2
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84869162564&doi=10.1007%2fs10113-012-0309-2&partnerID=40&md5=a9b6937a6035fd39dff37eafa4c0d136
Correspondence Address: Habiyaremye, M. F.; Biodiversité, Institut Royal des Sciences Naturelles de Belgique, Rue Vautier 29, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; email: francois.muhashy@naturalsciences.be
Language of Original Document: English; French
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Democratic Republic of Congo ;
Protected area: Kahuzi-Biega
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Plants ; Structure / Biomass ; Diversity ; Survey / Monitoring

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Abstract: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted from 1st April to 30th September 2005 among populations living inside and around the National Park of Kalamaloué in the far north of Cameroon. The survey aimed at identifying the plants used in the general pharmacopoeia among local ethnic groups using interviews with households who have a rich knowledge on the plants. A total of 36 medicinal plants were recorded from 37 informants comprising 30 genera and 23 families. Diarrhoea, malaria/fever, rheumatism, wound and cough were the major ailments treated in these households. Piliostigma reticulatum, Tamarindus indica, Balanites aegyptiaca, Azadirachta indica, and Mitragyna inermis were the most cited plants. These plants are also known for similar usages in other African countries and some of them are confirmed in literature to possess biological activity related to ailments indicated. ©2011 Academic Journals.
Source title: Journal of Medicinal Plants Research
DOI:
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-79957694092&partnerID=40&md5=e8e1de09c44a40f9815facad5d26e5b6
Correspondence Address: Betti, J. L.; Department of Botany, Faculty of Sciences, University of DoualaCameroon; email: lagardebetti@yahoo.fr
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Cameroon ;
Protected area: Kalamaloué
Main topic: Humans ; Biodiversity ; Health
Subtopic: Ethnoscience ; Perceptions / Behaviors ; Plants ; Diversity ; Biology / Ecology ; Human health

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Abstract: Studies of polyspecific associations among African forest primates have primarily focused on arboreal Cercopithecus and Procolobus/Colobus species. We examined the association frequency of the terrestrial drill (Mandrillus leucophaeus) with six sympatric monkey species in Korup National Park, Cameroon, testing reports that Mandrillus associations are infrequent and transient. We conducted 3,284 km of trail walks for 12 months (February-June 2006; July 2007 to January 2008), recording species composition in 612 primate clusters. Using a Markov chain Monte Carlo test, we compared the observed frequency of dyadic associations against null models of "no association." A novel conservative statistical approach which addresses possible dependence of observations close in time was also used, further strengthening confidence in our findings. Drills associated with all monkeys throughout the study period, and were with at least one other species (range 1-5) in half of the encounters. The association frequency of drills with red-capped mangabeys (Cercocebus torquatus) was greater than expected by chance, which is interesting given the morphological adaptation of the Mandrillus-Cercocebus clade for the exploitation of the same dietary niche, hard seeds. The difference we observed in the use of forest strata by drills and mangabeys may reflect a strategy to reduce food competition while in association. The nature and duration of observed drill associations varied. Although some associations seemed to be chance encounters, others lasted for hours with the involved species foraging together. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Source title: American Journal of Primatology
DOI: 10.1002/ajp.20877
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-78650231479&doi=10.1002%2fajp.20877&partnerID=40&md5=9673522441a85faa3e770a1577b39013
Correspondence Address: Astaras, C.; Wildlife Conservation Research Unit (WildCRU), University of Oxford, The Recanati-Kaplan Centre, Tubney House, Abingdon Road, Tubney, Abingdon OX13 5QL, United Kingdom; email: christos.astaras@zoo.ox.ac.uk
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Cameroon ;
Protected area: Korup
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Animals ; Vertebrates ; Mammals ; Primates ; Survey / Monitoring ; Diversity ; Biology / Ecology

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Abstract: An updated catalogue of the bryophytes of São Tomé e Príncipe Archipelago is presented. Occurrence data on both islands for each species are reported, based on a critical assessment of the literature since the first botanical expeditions in the 19th century up to June 2010. The references are chronologically listed for each species, and all old herbarium specimens revised or identified are also indicated. In addition, two lists (mosses and liverworts-hornworts) of known synonyms are provided. Two hundred twenty bryophyte taxa are listed (91 mosses and 129 liverworts- hornworts), while twenty taxa are excluded or their occurrence considered very improbable. The species diversity and endemics are also analysed for each island. © 2011 Adac. Tous droits réservés.
Source title: Cryptogamie, Bryologie
DOI: 10.7872/cryb.v32.iss1.2011.145
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-79957458637&doi=10.7872%2fcryb.v32.iss1.2011.145&partnerID=40&md5=f2364c01bf9618db5c73f32d4d0a23ed
Correspondence Address: Sérgio, C.; Universidade de Lisboa, MNHN, Jardim Botânico/CBA, Rua da Escola Politécnica, 1269-170 Lisboa, Portugal; email: csergio@fc.ul.pt
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; São Tomé and Príncipe ;
Protected area: Parque Natural Obô de São Tomé ; Parque Natural Obô do Príncipe
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Plants ; Survey / Monitoring ; Diversity

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Abstract: Campylopus joshii Broth, ex Pichonet et Bardat is described as a new species from Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The type specimen was initially named Dicranum joshii Broth, ex Thér. and Dicranum joshii var. latifolium Thér. et Naveau but these names have never been validly published. The new species resembles the groups of Campylopus species with ventral hyalocysts and a ridged costa on the dorsal side but differs by the incomplete band of ventral stereids and single-celled dorsal lamellae. © 2011 Adac. Tous droits réservés.
Source title: Cryptogamie, Bryologie
DOI: 10.7872/cryb.v32.iss1.2011.029
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-79952301199&doi=10.7872%2fcryb.v32.iss1.2011.029&partnerID=40&md5=acd42c1fa3282e0547926bf8721d60c3
Correspondence Address: Pichonet, A.; Department of Systematic and Evolution, UMR CNRS 7205, National Museum of Natural History, 57, rue Cuvier, 75231 Paris Cedex 05, France; email: pichonet@mnhn.fr
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Democratic Republic of Congo ;
Protected area: Virunga
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Plants ; Taxonomy ; Biology / Ecology

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Abstract: A new species of Cassipourea is described from the banks of the Mana River, in the southeastern boundary of the Korup National Park in Cameroon and placed provisionally within the subgenus Cassipourea. The leaves of the new species are close to those of C. afzelii, but its flowers differ from those of the latter and the rest of the species of the subgenus Cassipourea in having a glabrous ovary and a diplostemonous androceum, with filaments distinctly of two lengths. The illustration of the new species is provided and based on its narrow distribution, the provisional conservation status Vulnerable VU D1 is assigned. © Publications Scientifiques du Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle, Paris.
Source title: Adansonia
DOI: 10.5252/a2011n2a5
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84857823179&doi=10.5252%2fa2011n2a5&partnerID=40&md5=334de704a1d56945ce3cab25118653b4
Correspondence Address: Kenfack, D.; Center for Tropical Forest Science, Arnold Arboretum of the Harvard University, 1300 Centre Street, Roslindale, MA 02131, United States; email: kenfackd@si.edu
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Cameroon ;
Protected area: Korup
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Plants ; Taxonomy ; Biology / Ecology

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Abstract: Census and monitoring of the population of lions (Panthera leo) in Zakouma National Park (Chad). - The "Zakouma Lion Study" started at the beginning of 2003 with the aim of achieving a better understanding of the hitherto little studied lions (Panthera leo) of Central Africa, since they appear more and more threatened by the diminishing natural habitats and the concurrent increase of threat from humans. The zone selected for the study corresponds roughly to the Eastern half of the National Park of Zakouma (NPZ) - a nature reserve situated in the South-East of Chad - and Covers an area of approximately 1500 km 2. It includes most of the permanent bodies of water in the park, and sustains the majority of the fauna in the NPZ during the dry season. The "Zakouma Lion Study" took place in the dry season, from April 2003 to June 2006, and its objectives were as follows : to identify the population of lions, to analyse their diet, to assess their state of health, to study the human-predator conflict on the periphery of the park, and to train local agents in lion monitoring. The size of the NPZ lion population has been calculated by using individual recognition and "call-in" techniques. Estimated at about 140 (with 63 having been recognized individually), the population could be considered as being small, but in all likelihood it forms part of a meta-population within which genetic exchanges are possible. Five lions were equipped with VHF radio transmitter collars, then radio-tracked by air and ground to gather the information on the social structure, the reproduction and the predation of the NPZ lion population. The areas preferred by these five lions during the dry season and their evolution according to time were identified. The rate of female reproduction and the demographic characteristics of the population correspond to that which has been recorded elsewhere. The survival rate of the lion cubs seems moreover most satisfactory. Three coalitions of resident males and one apparently solitary resident male, covering the territory of at least five prides, were identified within the study boundaries between 2003 and 2006. Nonetheless, the organizational behaviour of these lions in the NPZ seems to differ somewhat from that of the classic scheme of leonine Organization, as was described by Schaller (1972). The direct Observation technique of predation is unanimously considered as the method of choice to determine the lions' diet with precision. However, due to the density of Vegetation limiting visibility and the surveillance by vehicle in the study area, we weren't able to use that method. In place of this, we made use of the technique of opportunistic Observation, which gives a good idea of the dietary habits of the carnivores, but tends to lead to an overrepresentation of the large prey. The elephants ([Loxodonta africana), buffalo (Syncerus cajfer brachyceros), the hartebeest (Alcephalus buselaphus lelwel) and the Waterhuck (Kobus ellipsyprimnus defassa) are all among the species the predation of which was most observed in the study zone. The first three listed here are equally those species most represented in the park. Blood samples were taken from those lions being anaesthetized in order to collar them, and were then the subject of biological analysis. The viruses associated with canine distemper, feline immunodeficiency virus infection, feline panleukopenia virus infection, feline calcivirus infection, feline Peritonitis infection and pleuritis, feline leukaemia virus, and feline viral rhinotracheitis virus infection were all researched. The analyses did not reveal any threats on the health status of the NPZ lion population. Various methods were employed to evaluate the importance of the threat of human/predator confiicts in the periphery of the NPZ study area. Among these, there was an enquiry into the predation of domestic livestock and the means put in place by the transhumant and sedentary breeders belonging to eleven villages and six nomadic encampments on the periphery of the park. If the predation of livestock is seen to be a regular problem in several villages and numerous nomadic encampments, the consulted group of breeders seems to consider the problems linked to predation as slight compared with the problems of illness or theft. The different activities of the "Zakouma Lion Study" were brought together working with "Volet Suivi Ecologique" of the CURESS Project (the European project in Charge of the NPZ area at the time of our study) and its different agents were formed through a practical and a theoretic Instruction by the different techniques of taking inventory and of following the lions in the park.
Source title: Revue d'Ecologie (La Terre et la Vie)
DOI:
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-83755184404&partnerID=40&md5=273d691a61f673de92308e4dc2d922ef
Correspondence Address: Vanherle, N., Le Trébiol, 30160 Peyremale, France; email: natvanherle@yahoo.fr
Language of Original Document: French
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Chad ;
Protected area: Zakouma
Main topic: Biodiversity ; Health ; Humans
Subtopic: Animals ; Vertebrates ; Mammals ; Carnivores ; Survey / Monitoring ; Abundance ; Biology / Ecology ; Animal health ; Human-wildlife conflicts ; Periphery / Management ; Perceptions / Behaviors

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Abstract: Bioko Island, part of Equatorial Guinea, has been classified as a critically important nesting site for sea turtles in the Gulf of Guinea. However, construction of a road through a previously undeveloped scientific reserve is set to dramatically alter human interactions with nesting turtle populations. This article reports on the current status of sea turtle conservation and research on Bioko Island as well as recent economic considerations that affect local turtle conservation and use. © 2011 Chelonian Research Foundation.
Source title: Chelonian Conservation and Biology
DOI: 10.2744/CCAB-0889.1
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84855468306&doi=10.2744%2fCCAB-0889.1&partnerID=40&md5=1685e836d6bc4a7b37726c5c7d083ad6
Correspondence Address: Fitzgerald, D.B.; Drexel University, Department of Biology, 3141 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States; email: dbf23@drexel.edu
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Equatorial Guinea ;
Protected area: Caldera de Luba
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Animals ; Vertebrates ; Reptiles ; Survey / Monitoring ; Abundance ; Biology / Ecology

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Abstract: Africa's Gulf of Guinea, a major nesting ground for the critically endangered Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), is experiencing rapid economic development. This study reports on the plasma biochemistry and packed cell volume (PCV) of turtles (55 samples collected from 23 individuals) nesting on Playa Moaba, Bioko Island, Equatorial Guinea. Because energy reserves and other resources in an individual are finite and turtles may not feed between nesting episodes, decreasing trends are expected in certain plasma biochemical concentrations and PCV values, as well as maternal investment in reproductive output (clutch size and egg mass). Calcium, potassium, sodium, phosphorous, plasma total protein, albumin, and globulin concentrations changed significantly with increasing number of nesting events, but remained within reported intervals in reptiles. Packed cell volume decreased significantly as the number of nesting events per individual increased. Although clutch size did not change, egg mass decreased significantly with increasing number of nesting events. The observed trends may be due to depletion of energy reserves and other resources during reproduction in a possible fasting state, and to the associated physiological stress. © 2011 by The Herpetologists' League, Inc.
Source title: Herpetologica
DOI: 10.1655/HERPETOLOGICA-D-10-00061.1
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-80052087389&doi=10.1655%2fHERPETOLOGICA-D-10-00061.1&partnerID=40&md5=6b4fca9dc7ebbcc7763548b118be92f0
Correspondence Address: Honarvar, S.; Drexel University, Department of Biology, 3141 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States; email: sh333@drexel.edu
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Equatorial Guinea ;
Protected area: Caldera de Luba
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Animals ; Vertebrates ; Reptiles ; Biology / Ecology

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Abstract: The origin of concessionary politics that shape forest use and management in equatorial Africa can be traced to precolonial and colonial practices. Yet these political processes are constantly being reinvented, and their consequences for ecological and social systems reach far into the future. Gleaned from fieldwork among residents of a protected area and logging zone in Central African Republic (CAR), this concept relates village-level analysis of traditional governance to national and international adoptions of legal concessions of land for the management of natural resources. Constituted through specific phases of prospecting, delimiting, and negotiating control over labor and territory, concessions can be characterized by particular cultural practices: negotiation at local or regional levels of concessionary rights that have been formally ceded at a national level; patron-client relationships involving expatriates and/or traditional authorities that mediate or even replace governance by the nationstate; and fields of territorialized identity politics that tend toward relationships of rivalry and alliance across groups for redistribution of wealth through services, gifts, and performances of collective contestation or celebration. Through interpretive analysis of a national holiday celebration in CAR, I explore the legacies and transformations in concessionary politics shaping conservation and logging in that region more broadly and consider their implications for changing environmental governance in equatorial Africa. © 2011 by The Wenner-Gren Foundation for Anthropological Research. All rights reserved.
Source title: Current Anthropology
DOI: 10.1086/658168
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-79953137735&doi=10.1086%2f658168&partnerID=40&md5=a0d4727cdeff758978484a8093ffb4e9
Correspondence Address: Hardin, R.; School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Michigan, Samuel Trask Dana Building, 440 Church Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; email: rdhardin@umich.edu
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Central African Republic ;
Protected area: Dzanga-Sangha
Main topic: Humans
Subtopic: Governance / Policy ; Conservation initiatives ; Periphery / Management ; Timber ; Anthropology / Ethnoscience ; Perceptions / Behaviors