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Abstract: Polarimetric synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) remote sensing has been widely used for structural and biophysical parameters retrieval of forest vegetation. It has been found that the combination of polarimetric properties and interferometric characteristics of SAR remote sensing provides the capacity to retrieve forest height. The prime objective of this research was to investigate the potential of Polarimetric Synthetic Aperture Radar Tomography (PolTomSAR) for the forested and river region of Mondah National Park, Gabon. SAR tomography is an improved method for acquiring the height of geographical features. UAVSAR L-band fully polarimetric multibaseline data have been used in this research (1.275 GHz). SAR data and ground data over the area have been collected in the year 2016. With the superresolution-based Capon algorithm, multiple scatterers located at a different vertical position in the same azimuth range cell has been resolved and reconstructed. This work provides a framework for Capon-based tomographic processing of multibaseline UAVSAR data for vertical profile retrieval of forest vegetation. The height profile of the forest patch having sparse, as well as dense vegetation, were retrieved. The vertical profile for a single azimuthal bin was obtained in range direction. The tomographic profile obtained was cross-checked with the field-measured forest height for the 16 locations in Mondah National Park, Gabon. To check the accuracy of the applied method, the statistical method of R2 and root-mean-square error (RMSE) is employed. The obtained RMSE of the result is 4.21 m and R2 is 0.92. The obtained results were concluded to find the potential of the Capon algorithm for the tomographic reconstruction of UAVSAR data. ©2020. The Authors.
Source title: Earth and Space Science
DOI: 10.1029/2020EA001230
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85093820519&doi=10.1029%2f2020EA001230&partnerID=40&md5=6c782274cbb4b846a3ed9560ec4668a4
Correspondence Address: Kumar, S.; Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, India; email: shashi@iirs.gov.in
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Gabon ;
Protected area: Mondah
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Plants ; Structure / Biomass

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Abstract: African pangolins are exceptionally difficult to monitor in the wild, which means that assessing threats and impacts to these species also remains a challenge. Local ecological knowledge (LEK) surveys have been recommended as an important tool to collect data for small elusive species. We carried out community-based interviews in 20 villages surrounding Mpem et Djim and Deng-Deng National Parks to gather information on local ecological and traditional medicine knowledge, perceived population status, and the level of conservation awareness amongst local people concerning giant pangolin (Smutsia gigantea), white-bellied pangolin (Phataginus tricuspis), and black-bellied pangolin (Phataginus tetradactyla). The arboreal black-bellied pangolin was least known by local people, and along with the giant pangolin was the least recently observed species. The white-bellied pangolin was reported to be the most recently observed species by most people. Local people reported seeing giant pangolins most around forest and savannah burrows and white-bellied pangolins in forests, commonly crossing dead fallen trees. Limited traditional or cultural uses of pangolins were reported, and most respondents were aware of threats to pangolins. Respondents showed great interest in pangolin conservation, suggesting various strategies for conservation activities, such as trade controls and provisioning of alternative sources of food. We show that working with local communities can provide useful information for pangolin conservation and management efforts within protected areas. © 2020 Society of Ethnobiology. All rights reserved.
Source title: Journal of Ethnobiology
DOI: 10.2993/0278-0771-40.2.234
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85093096848&doi=10.2993%2f0278-0771-40.2.234&partnerID=40&md5=f817bcad0b58728090038de6eaeb714d
Correspondence Address: Fopa, G.D.; Laboratory of Zoology, PO Box: 812, Cameroon; email: ghislainfopa49@gmail.com
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Cameroon ;
Protected area: Mpem et Djim ; Deng Deng
Main topic: Humans ; Biodiversity
Subtopic: Perceptions / Behaviors ; Anthropology / Ethnoscience ; Conservation initiatives ; Hunting / Poaching ; Income-generating activities ; Periphery / Management ; Animals ; Vertebrates ; Mammals ; Survey / Monitoring ; Abundance ; Biology / Ecology

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Abstract: The purpose of this study was to assess how traditional ecological knowledge systems can be leveraged to achieve biodiversity conservation and build resilience to climate change. A sequential mixed methods approach was used to study 379 local people residing around the Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda. Rusizi district was purposively sampled and as well as three sectors in it, within which random sampling was used to sample the villages, in which households were sampled conveniently and the locals purposively. Structured interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect data. Quantitative data collected were analyzed in SPSS 25 and the qualitative data thematically analyzed. The results indicate that all biodiversity conservation principles were practised by 71% (n = 270) of the local people. The widest spread species in Nyungwe National Park are trees (n = 219, 57.8%). However, bush burning is practised outside the park (n = 328, 86.5%). Controlled tree cutting (adjusted odds ratio, AOR = 1.167, CI = 1.007–2.032), and awareness of biodiversity and practice measures that usually avoid harm to biodiversity (AOR = 1.610, CI = 1.029–2.519), are protective of biodiversity conservation. Biodiversity conservation is not universal among locals residing around Nyungwe National Park; only 7 in 10 of them are conservation-oriented. Knowledge about forest conservation and controlled bush-burning practices are most the most protective of conservation. © 2020 African Journal of Science, Technology, Innovation and Development.
Source title: African Journal of Science, Technology, Innovation and Development
DOI: 10.1080/20421338.2020.1821948
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85098968065&doi=10.1080%2f20421338.2020.1821948&partnerID=40&md5=cb6833c5d0bfb5b79a9ae6ea7741ed59
Correspondence Address: Taremwa, N.K.; Department of Rural Development and Agricultural Economics, Rwanda; email: nk.taremwa@gmail.com
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Rwanda ;
Protected area: Nyungwe
Main topic: Humans
Subtopic: Perceptions / Behaviors ; Conservation initiatives ; Periphery / Management ; Income-generating activities ; Agriculture ; Anthropology / Ethnoscience

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Abstract: [No abstract available]
Source title: African Journal of Ecology
DOI: 10.1111/aje.12762
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85087170103&doi=10.1111%2faje.12762&partnerID=40&md5=e1dcdc0dd5682ae391fe94cc54f32ff8
Correspondence Address: Simo, F.; Laboratory of Zoology, Department of Biology and Animal Physiology, University of Yaoundé I, Pangolin Conservation Network, c/o Central Africa Bushmeat Action GroupCameroon; email: franklinsimo77@gmail.com
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Cameroon ;
Protected area: Deng Deng
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Animals ; Vertebrates ; Mammals ; Survey / Monitoring ; Abundance

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Abstract: The protection of forests is crucial to providing important ecosystem services, such as supplying clean air and water, safeguarding critical habitats for biodiversity, and reducing global greenhouse gas emissions. Despite this importance, global forest loss has steadily increased in recent decades. Protected Areas (PAs) currently account for almost 15% of Earth's terrestrial surface and protect 5% of global tree cover and were developed as a principal approach to limit the impact of anthropogenic activities on natural, intact ecosystems and habitats. We assess global trends in forest loss inside and outside of PAs, and land cover following this forest loss, using a global map of tree cover loss and global maps of land cover. While forests in PAs experience loss at lower rates than non-protected forests, we find that the temporal trend of forest loss in PAs is markedly similar to that of all forest loss globally. We find that forest loss in PAs is most commonly-and increasingly-followed by shrubland, a broad category that could represent re-growing forest, agricultural fallows, or pasture lands in some regional contexts. Anthropogenic forest loss for agriculture is common in some regions, particularly in the global tropics, while wildfires, pests, and storm blowdown are a significant and consistent cause of forest loss in more northern latitudes, such as the United States, Canada, and Russia. Our study describes a process for screening tree cover loss and agriculture expansion taking place within PAs, and identification of priority targets for further site-specific assessments of threats to PAs. We illustrate an approach for more detailed assessment of forest loss in four case study PAs in Brazil, Indonesia, Democratic Republic of Congo, and the United States. © 2020 by the authors.
Source title: Forests
DOI: 10.3390/F11050539
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85085657469&doi=10.3390%2fF11050539&partnerID=40&md5=dfad5202a90d4c015d16899c2fb42fda
Correspondence Address: Wade, C.M.; RTI International, 3040 E Cornwallis Rd, United States; email: chwade@rti.org
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Democratic Republic of Congo ;
Protected area: Sankuru
Main topic: Environment
Subtopic: Land use / cover ; Deforestation

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Abstract: Mining is a multi-billion-dollar industry spanning major to artisanal and small-scale mines, with diverse local to regional socio-economic and environmental impacts. Sub Saharan Africa (SSA) has large deposits of minerals, which has made it a global epicenter for investors in the extractive industries. Here, we identified and mapped 469 company-owned and community-managed mines across SSA, most of which are formal, to explore their distribution and areal extents and understand the potential threats they pose to conservation. The dominant eight commodities in SSA are gold, copper, iron, limestone, uranium, diamond, bauxite and petroleum, making up 405 mines and occupying 85% of the 3,055 km2 total areal extent. Mining significantly expanded between 2000 and 2018, with 260 (58%) new mines created and major expansion of many older mines. Hotspots of mining activity are apparent in the copper-belt of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia, Ghana and the Niger-Delta region of Nigeria. These mining 'hotspots' are distributed in close proximity to regions of high carbon stocks and value to biodiversity conservation, with the areal extent of mines more than doubling between 2000 and 2018 to 1,192 km2 within 10 km of a protected area, suggesting susceptibility to deforestation and other environmental consequences. The identification of mines and their changing spatial extent is imperative for monitoring future encroachments in SSA and to conservation and habitat recovery. Furthermore, Africa needs to introduce sustainable mineral development policies to safeguard and protect its forests, especially reducing the frequency of protected area downgrading, downsizing and degazettement events. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Source title: Land Degradation and Development
DOI: 10.1002/ldr.3706
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85088877624&doi=10.1002%2fldr.3706&partnerID=40&md5=72e3414ee9225c264bf887af0071d9c0
Correspondence Address: Ahmed, A.I.; Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, University of SheffieldUnited Kingdom; email: aiahmed2@sheffield.ac.uk
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Central Africa ;
Protected area: Many
Main topic: Environment
Subtopic: Land use / cover ; Mines

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Abstract: Background: Ectomycorrhizal (EcM) fungi constitute a source of income as well as proper food with considerable nutritional value. Although edible EcM fungi are highly diverse and expected to host considerable nutritional attributes, only few studies focus on their use and promotion in the province of Tshopo (DR Congo). This study provides original ethnomycological and diversity data on edible ectomycorrhizal rainforest fungi from the Man-and-Biosphere reserve of Yangambi and the reserve of Yoko. Methods: The list of edible fungi follows the current taxonomy. Taxa were collected in plots situated in different types of rainforests. Each taxon is supported by herbarium reference specimens. Ethnomycological data on locally consumed EcM fungi were collected from randomly selected people living near the Man-and-Biosphere reserve of Yangambi and the Yoko reserve. People were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. The interview campaign involved 160 informants, all randomly selected from 6 different ethnic communities. Results: The results reveal that rainforests from the Yangambi Biosphere reserve and Yoko forest reserve provide a relatively high number of edible fungi, more than local people actually use. Mixed forest stands hold the highest diversity in saprotrophic edible fungi (p value < 0.001) while no significant difference (p value > 0.05) was observed in the number of saprotrophic and EcM fungi within monodominant forests. In spite of being accessible, this renewable natural resource is underexploited. Although a wide array of EcM fungi is available in primary forests dominated by ectomycorrhizal trees, local people's major interest goes to the saprotrophic fungi from areas with degraded mixed forests. Conclusion: The lack of local interest for EcM fungi is probably related to the considerable distance people have to cover to collect them. As a result, the edible EcM fungi from the Tshopo area represent a potentially interesting but underutilized resource. © 2020 The Author(s).
Source title: Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine
DOI: 10.1186/s13002-020-0357-5
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85079243861&doi=10.1186%2fs13002-020-0357-5&partnerID=40&md5=5d14c94a02f5fad7d6300edf22748c04
Correspondence Address: Milenge Kamalebo, H.; Faculté des Sciences, Université de Kisangani, BP 2012, Democratic Republic Congo; email: kamaleboheritier@gmail.com
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Democratic Republic of Congo ;
Protected area: Yangambi ; Yoko
Main topic: Humans ; Biodiversity
Subtopic: Ethnoscience ; Income-generating activities ; Non-timber forest products ; Perceptions / Behaviors ; Periphery / Management ; Fungi ; Diversity

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Abstract: This article reports the uses of primates in a fast-expanding city, and human-primate interactions in the vicinity of a protected area in southeastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Surveys in markets, households and restaurants suggested that primate meat is frequently sold and consumed in the city of Lubumbashi. Carcasses of diurnal monkeys accounted for almost 10% of the total weight of smoked bushmeat sold between March and July 2016 in urban markets, and in 21% of households the last bushmeat consumed prior the date of the survey was of a primate species. Kinda Baboons Papio kindae, Malbrouck Monkeys Chlorocebus cynosuros and Blue Monkeys Cercopithecus mitis were found illegally kept as pets. Occasional observations and questionnaire surveys carried out in both the Sector North of Upemba National Park and its neighboring areas, indicated wild populations of these species which were mentioned as "pest primates" by 73% of respondents. There is no compensation scheme for damages caused by wildlife to crops, and culling problematic animals was listed by a majority (70%) of respondents as the most effective way to repel crop-raiding primates. Given the current population growth, and considering the increasing spatial overlap between human activities and wildlife, wild populations of these primates are no doubt at risk, but all the three species belong to the Least Concern category on the latest version of the IUCN Red List. The Blue Monkey is a 'partially protected' species in DRC, while the two other benefit from less strict conservation measures and their legal status of 'non-protected' remains. This situation illustrates the necessity of updating legal status and establishing a Red List of species at the country level. © Kazaba 2019.Cet artcle décrit les utlisatons des primates dans une ville en expansion et les interactons humains-primates à proximité d'une aire protégée dans le sud-est de la République démocratque du Congo (RDC). Des enquêtes conduites au niveau des marchés, des ménages et des restaurants ont suggéré que la viande des primates est fréquemment vendue et consommée dans la ville de Lubumbashi. En efet, les carcasses des primates représentaient près de 10% du poids de la viande de brousse vendue entre mars et juillet 2016 sur les marchés communaux. Dans 21% des ménages, la dernière viande consommée avant la période de l'enquête était d'une espèce de primate. Des babouins (Papio kindae), des singes de Malbrouck (Chlorocebus cynosuros) et singes bleus (Cercopithecus mits) ont été trouvés illégalement détenus comme animaux de compagnie. Des observatons occasionnelles et des enquêtes réalisées dans le Parc natonal de l'Upemba et ses environs ont indiqué la présence de ces trois espèces, qui ont été qualifées de primates nuisibles par 73% des répondants. Il n'existe aucun système de compensaton des dommages causés par les animaux sauvages, et l'abatage des animaux à problèmes a été mentonné par la majorité (70%) des répondants comme le meilleur moyen de répulsion des primates ravageurs des cultures. Etant donné le rythme actuel de croissance démographique et le chevauchement croissant entre les actvités humaines et la faune, ces primates sont sans doute en péril. Ils restent néanmoins dans la catégorie Préoccupaton mineure sur la Liste rouge de l'UICN; le singe bleu est une espèce partellement protégée, tandis que les deux autres espèces conservent leur statut juridique animaux non encore protégés. Cete situaton illustre la nécessité de metre à jour le statut juridique et d'établir une liste rouge des espèces au niveau des pays. © Kazaba 2019.
Source title: Journal of Threatened Taxa
DOI: 10.11609/jott.4669.11.3.13251-13260
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85063803043&doi=10.11609%2fjott.4669.11.3.13251-13260&partnerID=40&md5=d960cdf693aaea72d5e8a55d94a83251
Correspondence Address: Kazaba, P.K.; Ecology, Ecological Restoration and Landscape (EREP) Research Unit, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of LubumbashiCongo; email: paulkazaba@gmail.com
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Democratic Republic of Congo ;
Protected area: Upemba
Main topic: Biodiversity ; Humans
Subtopic: Animals ; Vertebrates ; Mammals ; Primates ; Hunting / Poaching ; Income-generating activities ; Perceptions / Behaviors ; Human-wildlife conflicts ; Agriculture ; Demography ; Conservation initiatives

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Abstract: The polymorphic genus Merremia has been shown to be polyphyletic. In 1980, Xenostegia was separated from the first, based on its longitudinally dehiscing anthers, stigmas with long tapering papillae, and non-spiny, pantoporate pollen, and accommodated two species in the Old World tropics. A recent molecular study and subsequent review of the tribe Merremieae resulted in the distinction of seven genera and corroborated the delimitation of Xenostegia at genus level, with three more species added to it. During fieldwork carried out in 2015 and 2016 in Lomami National Park, Democratic Republic of the Congo, material was collected of a Convolvulaceae species with pinnatifid leaves that was morphologically very close to Xenostegia sapinii, but deviated notably in sepal shape and corolla length. Closer examination revealed additional distinctive characters leading to the conclusion that it represents a distinct taxon new to science. Its pantoporate pollen, longitudinally dehiscing anthers, and stigmas with long papillae seem to confine its placement in Xenostegia. However, its most striking feature is the presence of two free styles, a character otherwise not present in the subfamily Convolvuloideae. The results of our molecular phylogenetic analyses confirmed our hypothesis on our new taxon being a member of Xenostegia. The observed incongruence between the nuclear and plastid-based trees might indicate that the new taxon has a hybrid origin. Based on all evidence, it is recognized at species level, Xenostegia lomamiensis, and it is formally published, along with a full morphological description, illustration, habitat data, and an informal IUCN Red List assessment. A key to the species of Xenostegia in central Africa is provided. © 2019 by the American Society of Plant Taxonomists.
Source title: Systematic Botany
DOI: 10.1600/036364419X15562052252027
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85066848058&doi=10.1600%2f036364419X15562052252027&partnerID=40&md5=31078967851a3351ae82acf0aea01de8
Correspondence Address: Sosef, M.S.M.; Meise Botanic Garden, Nieuwelaan 38, Belgium; email: marc.sosef@botanicgardenmeise.be
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Democratic Republic of Congo ;
Protected area: Lomami National Park
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Plants ; Taxonomy ; Biology / Ecology ; Genetics

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Abstract: Tropical rainforests form the most species-rich biome on the earth. The Dja Biosphere Reserve (DBR) in Cameroon is a biodiverse tropical forest characterized in part by upland monodominant stands of the ectomycorrhizal (ECM) Gilbertiodendron dewevrei and ECM Uapaca spp. scattered along river banks. This mostly primary Guineo-Congolian evergreen forest harbors natural populations of large megafauna and numerous plant and fungal species. Studies have indicated that some ECM fungal groups of the large order Russulales are abundant in certain localities in the tropics, including the DBR. However, currently, other predominantly wood-decaying families of Russulales are poorly represented in Africa. For example, only three records of the saprotrophic genus Hericium (Russulales, Hericiaceae) are known from the African continent. Here, we describe a new species of Hericium recently collected from the DBR. Morphological characteristics and molecular phylogenetic analyses support placement of the Cameroonian collection in Hericium and its recognition as a new species within a larger H. coralloides species complex. The new species, H. bembedjaense, differs from H. coralloides in its smaller basidiospores (2.6–3.0 × 1.7–2.2 ?m compared to 3.5–5.0 × 2.8–4.2 ?m) and longer basidia (up to 27.0 ?m compared to 15.0 ?m). It differs from all other described Hericium species in the production of pleurocystidia. This is the first species of Hericiaceae known from sub-Saharan lowland tropical evergreen forests. This study highlights the need to increase fungal sampling in species-rich tropical forests such as those of the Congo Basin. © 2019, German Mycological Society and Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.
Source title: Mycological Progress
DOI: 10.1007/s11557-019-01530-1
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85074291320&doi=10.1007%2fs11557-019-01530-1&partnerID=40&md5=a9bd17869b54f254a3b1ad89cdc4602c
Correspondence Address: Jumbam, B.; Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, Purdue UniversityUnited States; email: jumbam.blaise@gmail.com
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Cameroon ;
Protected area: Dja
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Fungi ; Taxonomy ; Biology / Ecology ; Genetics

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Abstract: A new species, Kniphofia vandeweghei, is described and illustrated, and the differences with K. princeae, K. goetzei and K. paludosa are discussed. Distribution maps for K. vandeweghei and K. princeae are provided. Kniphofia bequaertii, sometimes regarded as a synonym of K. grantii, is considered to be a good species, and identification characters and distribution information are given. An identification key for all known Kniphofia species from Rwanda is provided. © 2019 Magnolia Press.
Source title: Phytotaxa
DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.391.1.3
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85067310311&doi=10.11646%2fphytotaxa.391.1.3&partnerID=40&md5=f5fdfc3382ef1a4029ac6af85f0f073e
Correspondence Address: Fischer, E.; Institut für Integrierte Naturwissenschaften – Biologie, Universität Koblenz-Landau, Universitätsstraße 1, Germany; email: efischer@uni-koblenz.de
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Rwanda ;
Protected area: Nyungwe
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Plants ; Taxonomy ; Biology / Ecology

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Abstract: This paper presents a socioeconomic model, implemented in surrounded areas of a high biodiversity hotspot: the Dja Faunal Reserve (DFR), in Cameroon. Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP) of DFR have always been used by local people for food or traditional medicine. This associative/private project has aimed at structuring the NTFP value chains, in order to ensure the beneficiary communities, particularly women, to earn the revenues necessary to their development. With this alternative to poaching, local communities find it economically worthwhile to protect and sustainably manage the forest. © 2019 E. Roques.
Source title: OCL - Oilseeds and fats, Crops and Lipids
DOI: 10.1051/ocl/2018065
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85062002116&doi=10.1051%2focl%2f2018065&partnerID=40&md5=9b52b8ab1abaaf3be7397ff3135c3ecf
Correspondence Address: Roques, E.; Man and Nature, 16 rue d'Alsace, France; email: rques.emmanuelle@gmail.com
Language of Original Document: French
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Cameroon ;
Protected area: Dja
Main topic: Humans
Subtopic: Income-generating activities ; Non-timber forest products ; Periphery / Management

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Abstract: The relative importance of individual and social learning in acquiring complex technological skills in animals is debated, especially the influence of processes allowing high copying fidelity (namely, imitation and teaching). We investigated how immature wild chimpanzees, Pan troglodytes troglodytes, acquired the technique for extracting underground honey. This technique is interesting because (1) adults perform exploration, pounding and perforation in nonrandom but highly flexible action sequences to locate underground bee nests, (2) they have individual preferences for how to perforate the ground and (3) the nests are deeply buried and concealed, making success difficult to achieve. We analysed the behaviour of 16 immatures recorded by camera traps at 50 sites, and tested the influence of individual attributes (namely, age and sex) and maternal behaviour; we also tested whether mothers provided learning opportunities for their offspring. We found that, as they aged, immatures of both sexes progressively matched adults’ behaviour in action sequences and observed their social models more continuously. Immature males used the most common grip type used by adults for perforating (namely, the coordinated use of hands and feet) progressively more as they aged, but no effect of maternal preferences was detected. Thus, the adult technique was probably acquired via a combination of physical maturation (i.e. increased body strength and motor coordination) and observational learning, although individual learning could not be completely ruled out. Finally, the proportion of time mothers spent inactive at bee nest sites was high when they were accompanied by young daughters and decreased as daughters aged, while the opposite pattern was found for sons. Mothers may thus stimulate learning by immatures by adjusting their behaviour according to their offspring's sex and age. Overall, we showed that immature chimpanzees acquired this complex tool use behaviour via a combination of social and nonsocial learning processes, including potential maternal stimulation. © 2018 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour
Source title: Animal Behaviour
DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2018.11.002
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85058092211&doi=10.1016%2fj.anbehav.2018.11.002&partnerID=40&md5=b25bda8e053b67a5f695b14f9f9a7f57
Correspondence Address: Estienne, V.; Department of Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Deutscher Platz 6, Germany; email: vittoria_estienne@eva.mpg.de
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Gabon ;
Protected area: Loango
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Animals ; Vertebrates ; Mammals ; Primates ; Biology / Ecology

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Abstract: Humans were once considered unique in having a concept of death but a growing number of observations of animal responses to dying and dead conspecifics suggests otherwise. Complex arrays of behaviors have been described ranging from corpse removal and burial among social insects to quiet attendance and caregiving among elephants and primates. Less frequently described, however, are behavioral responses of individuals from different age/sex classes or social position toward the death of conspecifics. We describe behavioral responses of mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei) to the deaths of a dominant silverback and a dominant adult female from the same social group in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and the responses of Grauer's gorillas (Gorilla b. graueri) to the corpse of an extra-group silverback in Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo. In gorillas, interactions between groups or with a lone silverback often result in avoidance or aggression. We predicted that: (i) more individuals should interact with the corpses of same-group members than with the corpse of the extra-group silverback; (ii) adult females with infants should avoid the corpse of the extra-group silverback; and (iii) in the mountain gorilla cases, individuals that shared close social relationships with the dead individual should spend more time with the corpse than other individuals in the group. We used a combination of detailed qualitative reports, photos, and videos to describe all occurrences of affiliative/investigative and agonistic behaviors observed at the corpses. Weobserved similar responses toward the corpses of group and extra-group individuals. Animals; Vertebrates in all three cases showed a variety of affiliative/investigative and agonistic behaviors directed to the corpses. Animals; Vertebrates of all age/sex classes interacted with the corpses in affiliative/investigative ways but there was a notable absence of all adult females at the corpse of the extra-group silverback. In all three cases, we observed only silverbacks and blackbacks being agonistic around and/or toward the corpses. In the mountain gorilla cases, the individuals who spent the most time with the corpses were animals who shared close social relationships with the deceased. We emphasize the similarity in the behavioral responses around the corpses of group and extragroup individuals, and suggest that the behavioral responses were influenced in part by close social relationships between the deceased and certain group members and by a general curiosity about death. We further discuss the implications close interactions with corpses have for disease transmission within and between gorilla social groups. © Copyright 2019 Porter et al.
Source title: PeerJ
DOI: 10.7717/peerj.6655
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85071565616&doi=10.7717%2fpeerj.6655&partnerID=40&md5=a2c263bc9a58b5d4b703d598d6ea4f39
Correspondence Address: Porter, A.; Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund InternationalUnited States; email: spizaetusornatus@gmail.com
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Rwanda ; Democratic Republic of Congo ;
Protected area: Volcans ; Kahuzi-Biega
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Animals ; Vertebrates ; Mammals ; Primates ; Biology / Ecology

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Abstract: To improve our understanding of the evolutionary origins of culture and technology in humans, it is vital that we document the full extent of behavioural diversity in our great ape relatives. About half of the world's remaining chimpanzees (Pan spp.) live in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), yet until now we have known almost nothing about their behaviour. Here we describe the insect-related tool technology of Bili-Uéré chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) inhabiting an area of at least a 50,000-km2 area in northern DRC, as well as their percussive technology associated with food processing. Over a 12-year period, we documented chimpanzee tools and artefacts at 20 survey areas and gathered data on dung, feeding remains and sleeping nests. We describe a new chimpanzee tool kit: long probes used to harvest epigaeic driver ants (Dorylus spp.), short probes used to extract ponerine ants and the arboreal nests of stingless bees, wands to dip for D. kohli and stout digging sticks used to access underground meliponine bee nests. Epigaeic Dorylus tools were significantly longer than the other tool types, and D. kohli tools were significantly thinner. Tools classified as terrestrial honey-digging sticks were a significant predictor for brushed and blunted tool ends, consistent with their presumed use. We describe two potential new tool types, an "ant scoop" and a "fruit hammer." We document an extensive percussive technology used to process termite mounds of Cubitermes sp. and Thoracotermes macrothorax and hard-shelled fruits such as Strychnos, along with evidence of the pounding open of African giant snails and tortoises. We encountered some geographic variation in behaviour: we found honey-digging tools, long driver ant probes and fruit-pounding sites only to the north of the Uele River; there were more epigaeic Dorylus tools to the north and more ponerine ant tools to the south. We found no evidence of termite-fishing, despite the availability of Macrotermes muelleri mounds throughout the region. This lack of evidence is consistent with the results of dung washes, which revealed a substantial proportion of driver ants, but no evidence of Macrotermes or other termites. Our results allow us to describe a new chimpanzee behavioural complex, characterised by a general similarity of multiple behaviours across a large, ecologically diverse region but with subtle differences in prey choice and techniques. We propose that this widespread and related suite of behaviours be referred to as the Bili-Uéré Chimpanzee Behavioural Realm. Possible explanations for this pattern are a recent chimpanzee expansion across the region and the interconnectedness of this population across at least the entirety of northern DRC. © 2019 The Author(s).
Source title: Folia Primatologica
DOI: 10.1159/000492998
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85062430420&doi=10.1159%2f000492998&partnerID=40&md5=b0e535584d16423900954775bf06b765
Correspondence Address: Hicks, T.C.; Faculty of Artes Liberales, University of Warsaw, Ulica Nowy ?wiat 69, Poland; email: clevehicks@hotmail.com
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Democratic Republic of Congo ;
Protected area: Bili-Uere ; Rubi-Tele
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Animals ; Vertebrates ; Mammals ; Primates ; Reptiles ; Invertebrates ; Biology / Ecology

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Abstract: Stress is a major factor in determining success when releasing endangered species into the wild but is often overlooked. Mandrills (Mandrills sphinx) are vulnerable to extinction due to habitat loss and demand for bush meat and the pet trade. To help bolster in situ populations, rehabilitated rescued mandrills recently were released into a protected area in the Republic of Congo. The goal of this study was to validate the use of faecal glucocorticoid metabolite enzyme immunoassays (EIAs) in mandrills and test field-friendly faecal hormone extraction techniques that can subsequently be used to monitor the stress physiology and welfare of mandrills throughout the release process. Using faecal samples collected from ex situ mandrills, we tested cortisol, corticosterone, 11?-hydroxyetiocholanolone (69a), and 11-oxoetiocholanolone EIAs. Absolute concentrations, hormone profiles following medical procedures or translocation, and high-performance liquid chromatography fraction immunoreactivity showed that the 69a assay was the best choice to monitor the stress response in this species. Samples with delayed extraction or drying times had 40-80% lower 69a concentrations than samples extracted immediately post-collection and frozen. The 69a EIA is an appropriate assay for monitoring welfare in this species in situ or ex situ, and results indicated that consistent extraction methods are important for accurate comparisons. © 2019 The Author(s). Published by Oxford University Press and the Society for Experimental Biology.
Source title: Conservation Physiology
DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coz032
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85083647407&doi=10.1093%2fconphys%2fcoz032&partnerID=40&md5=2e12272eaedb684bfea34326ca8e5898
Correspondence Address: Lavin, S.R.; Animals; Vertebrates, Science and Environment Disney's Animal Kingdom, 1200 N. Savannah Circle, United States; email: Shana.Lavin@disney.com
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Republic of Congo ;
Protected area: Tchimpounga
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Animals ; Vertebrates ; Mammals ; Primates ; Biology / Ecology ; Survey / Monitoring

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Abstract: Traditional, forest resource-dependent livelihoods face multiple challenges. In Gabon, bushmeat provides food and income for rural communities. This study investigates how villagers believe livelihood practices and dependence on bushmeat changed over the last decade and if alternative income and food generating strategies can be sustainable. Our results show that remote villages near Moukalaba Doudou National Park hardly changed practices. Less remote villages near Tchibanga experienced declining hunting revenues and are switching to alternatives. Villages near Libreville almost completely changed strategies, and are no longer dependent on forest resources. Changes in livelihood practices were driven either by resource depletion or urbanization. The ability to change depended on proximity to facilities and infrastructure. Although most respondents were able to change, not all alternative strategies are sustainable. The results highlight the need to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of alternative poverty reduction and nature conservation strategies in a context of urbanization and food security. There is a need to reduce bushmeat demand, making supply more sustainable through effective resource governance and creating a conducive institutional and policy environment. © 2019 Commonwealth Forestry Association. All rights reserved.
Source title: International Forestry Review
DOI: 10.1505/146554819825863753
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85063082106&doi=10.1505%2f146554819825863753&partnerID=40&md5=9e5c4afaf606b332a3977395a7488f18
Correspondence Address:
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Gabon ;
Protected area: Moukalaba-Doudou
Main topic: Humans
Subtopic: Income-generating activities ; Periphery / Management ; Hunting / Poaching ; Perceptions / Behaviors ; Demography ; Governance / Policy

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Abstract: Almost all primates experience seasonal fluctuations in the availability of key food sources. However, the degree to which this fluctuation impacts foraging behavior varies considerably. Eastern chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, live in a montane forest environment characterized by lower primary productivity and resource diversity than low-elevation forests. Little is known about chimpanzee feeding ecology in montane forests, and research to date predominantly relies on indirect methods such as fecal analyses. This study is the first to use mostly observational data to examine how seasonal food availability impacts the feeding ecology of montane forest chimpanzees. We examine seasonal changes in chimpanzee diet and fallback foods (FBFs) using instantaneous scan samples and fecal analyses, supported by inspection of feeding remains. Chimpanzee fruit abundance peaked during the major dry season, with a consequent change in chimpanzee diet reflecting the abundance and diversity of key fruit species. Terrestrial herbaceous vegetation was consumed throughout the year and is defined as a “filler” FBF. In contrast to studies conducted in lower-elevation chimpanzee sites, figs (especially Ficus lutea) were preferred resources, flowers were consumed at seasonally high rates and the proportion of non-fig fruits in the diet were relatively low in the current study. These divergences likely result from the comparatively low environmental diversity and productivity in higher-elevation environments. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Source title: American Journal of Primatology
DOI: 10.1002/ajp.22971
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85063779517&doi=10.1002%2fajp.22971&partnerID=40&md5=77a4ab1ac1997d4abfb78adac83631e7
Correspondence Address: Matthews, J.K.; School of Human Sciences, The University of Western AustraliaAustralia; email: jaya.matthews@research.uwa.edu.au
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Rwanda ;
Protected area: Nyungwe
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Animals ; Vertebrates ; Mammals ; Primates ; Plants ; Biology / Ecology ; Abundance ; Diversity

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Abstract: This article discusses the co-management experiences of two tropical protected areas – the Korup National Park (KNP) in Cameroon, and the Natma Taung National Park (NTNP) in Myanmar. The discussion is anchored on the constitutionality construct and opens up reflections to guide future management processes and outcomes for protected areas. Based on a review of articles and institutional reports, complemented by interviews and focus group discussions, we comparatively analyze the manifestations of two constitutionality principles in co-management around the KNP and NTNP, and discuss future co-management perspectives. The paper concludes with reflections on how local level institutions could be activated in protected area management, especially with respect to enforcing catalyzing agents and improving state motivation and recognition of local institutional processes. The results do not only provide necessary ingredients to improve the institution-building process if co-management must become adaptive, but equally opens up new research avenues in the context of local power play and social learning. We argue that further studies should seek to understand conditions, under which catalyzing agents and the state could support and recognize endogenous institution-building processes to improve resource management outcomes. © 2019 The Author(s).
Source title: International Journal of the Commons
DOI: 10.5334/ijc.934
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85068882621&doi=10.5334%2fijc.934&partnerID=40&md5=f3b5d4b4bacc163084243282c0314348
Correspondence Address: Kimengsi, J.N.; Technische Universitat DresdenGermany; email: jude_ndzifon.kimengsi@tu-dresden.de
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Cameroon ;
Protected area: Korup
Main topic: Humans
Subtopic: Governance / Policy ; Periphery / Management ; Perceptions / Behaviors ; Conservation initiatives

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Abstract: The Albertine Rift is one of Africa’s major biodiversity hotspots. However, the aquatic fauna of its western border in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains understudied and poorly characterised. Kahuzi-Biega National Park (KBNP) in DRC is a crucial link for biodiversity conservation of this hotspot; however, scientific studies of this rich biodiversity are scarce because of insecurity and harsh field conditions. In the current study, benthic macroinvertebrates communities and some environmental conditions were investigated in 10 rivers in the KBNP. Eighty-four morphospecies, belonging to 47 families and 12 orders, were sampled from 13 sites. The abundance and diversity of taxa within systematic groups varied across the study area. Spatial distribution of systematic groups was also analysed. The high morphospecies richness, characterised by the number of families and Shannon’s and Simpson’s Diversity Indices, recorded at some sites was probably owing to the diversity of substratum and undisturbed environmental conditions observed in these forested rivers. Conversely, some sites presented lower species richness, possibly because of unfavourable natural conditions. © 2019, © 2019 NISC (Pty) Ltd.
Source title: African Journal of Aquatic Science
DOI: 10.2989/16085914.2019.1598840
Link: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85070283866&doi=10.2989%2f16085914.2019.1598840&partnerID=40&md5=5658ec079d89d2d9c841811a16f4c93f
Correspondence Address: Ngera, M.F.; Centre de Recherche en Sciences Naturelles LwiroDemocratic Republic Congo; email: francngera6@gmail.com
Language of Original Document: English
Access Type: Article
Country: ; Democratic Republic of Congo ;
Protected area: Kahuzi-Biega
Main topic: Biodiversity
Subtopic: Animals ; Invertebrates ; Abundance ; Diversity ; Biology / Ecology ; Survey / Monitoring