Journal of Wildlife and Biodiversity

New records of two little-known species of the true bugs (Insecta, Hemiptera, Heteroptera) in Uzbekistan

Konstantin Grebennikov — 2024-09-13

The data on the first records of two little-known species of true bugs (Insecta, Hemiptera, Heteroptera) in Uzbekistan are given in the article. Sarju pavlovskii (Kiritshenko, 1952) (Pentatomidae), previously known from a few records from Afghanistan and Tajikistan, was found in the Khorazm Region. Xanthochilus melanopus Kiritshenko & Scudder, 1973, previously known only from type series from northern Tajikistan and southern Kyrgyzstan, was found in Jizzak Region. Both species are reported for the territory of the Republic of Uzbekistan for the first time. S. pavlovskii was first time found outside the mountain areas (in the Amudarya River valley), which may show a wide distribution of the species or a trend to its dispersal. For X. melanopus, information on habitats is given for the first time.

Adopting blockchain technology for enhanced collaboration in biodiversity conservation: The CONSCIOUS framework

Fethi BENGIL — 2024-09-16

The growing environmental challenges, including biodiversity loss, necessitate new tools to enhance collaboration and transparency in conservation efforts. This study introduces the CONSCIOUS framework, a platform built on blockchain technology. The framework's potential to revolutionize communication and cooperation between individuals, organizations, and communities is immense. By leveraging blockchain’s ability to create secure and transparent records, the framework ensures clear tracking of project progress and funding. The study demonstrates how this approach can significantly improve stakeholder participation, resource management transparency, and project outcomes accountability. The results suggest that the CONSCIOUS framework has the potential to not just strengthen, but transform biodiversity conservation efforts by uniting diverse groups more transparently and efficiently.

Effects of wildlife tourism on human-wildlife conflict: a bibliometric analysis and scientific review

Alireza Mohammadi — 2024-09-26

In this research, we systematically reviewed the impacts of wildlife tourism on human-wildlife conflict. Our findings of the four thematic areas provided significant insights about the previous research. They indicated that “wildlife management” and “disturbance” are emerging fields of research in this domain, and more recently, themes emerged around “human-wildlife conflict,” “climate change,” and “ethnoprimatology.” Our literature showed that most of the wildlife tourism conflict involved wildlife behavior change (22.72%), crop riding (15.90%), and livestock depredation (9.09%), and few attempts have been made to explore the effects of wildlife tourism on other aspects of conflict such as attacks on human and negative attitudes towards wildlife. We provided significant insights about key areas of interest in wildlife tourism research, and it is expected that human-wildlife conflict will play a key role in generating future research on wildlife ecotourism research, which is necessary for human-wildlife coexistence.

Nutraceutical Compounds of edible wild plants collected in Central Italy

Fabio Orlandi — 2024-09-26

Edible wild plants (EWP_s) are a part of ethnobotanical heritage of a territory. Several species are used in the local traditional food in central Italy, and unfortunately the risk of losing of this knowledge is currently present. The objective of this work is to evaluate the nutritional value, some active biologically components and total antioxidant capacity (ORAC) of some EWP_spresent in the central Italy: Allium neapolitanum Cirillo, Allium triquetrum L., Foeniculum vulgare Mill. Melissa officinalis L., Thymus serpyllum L. Sonchus oleraceus L, Reichardia picroides L. Roth, Rhagadiolus stellatus L. Gaertn and Plantago coronopus L. The analysis determines the proximate composition, some minerals (Ca, K, Mg, Na, Fe and P) and antioxidant vitamins (A, β-carotene, E and C,) of major nutritional interest, total polyphenols and ORAC. The EWPs showed an interesting qualitative/quantitative composition due to the interesting fiber values, antioxidant vitamins, total polyphenols and great values of total antioxidant capacity (3.670-20.071 μmol TE / 100g). These results suggest an undoubted nutritional and dietary interest for the four EWPs. Their valorization and adequate consumption/intake, due to the presence of numerous nutrients and biologically active components, could contribute to bring significant beneficial implications for our health

Study on genus Heteracris, Walker, 1870 (Eyprepocnemidinae: Acrididae) from middle Sindh Pakistan

Asif Nazeer Memon — 2024-08-06

This study presents a unique contribution to the field of zoology, entomology, and biodiversity. Species belonging to the genus Heteracris, Walker, 1870, commonly known as short-horned grasshoppers in the family Acrididae, were captured from various Middle Sindh, Pakistan localities. The material was identified into two species: Heteracris littoralis (Rambur, 1838) and Heteracris adspersa (Redtenbacher, 1889). A detailed morphological description of the species, digital images, and key information for their identification in middle Sindh are provided in this paper.

A morphological and histological study on Lyssa of Golden Jackal (Canis aureus)

HASAN HÜSEYİN ARI — 2024-09-05

This study aimed to reveal the topographic location, its measurements, and microscopic and macroscopic structures of Golden Jackal’s Lyssa by using macro anatomical and histological methods. For this study, the tongues of three dead Golden jackals were first dissected to expose the lyssa. Then, lyssa were photographed macro anatomically, and measurements were made with the FIJI® program on the photographs. Additionally, for histological examination, the samples obtained from the lyssa were stained with Masson's Trichrome (H&E) stain after undergoing histological procedures. In the topographic and macroscopic examination, Lyssa was located on the ventral surface of the tongue between the lingual frenulum and the apex linguae; its front half was visible just under the mucosa, and its shape was fusiform. In the histological examination, the lyssa was surrounded by a thick external connective tissue capsule from the outside, the fat tissue mass formed the ventral part of the structure within the capsule, and the muscle tissue mass formed the dorsal part, there was a thin internal connective tissue capsule separating these two tissues from each other. As a result, it was determined that the location and histological structure of Lyssa in the Golden Jackal were similar to its localization and histological structure in camels, dogs, and cats. Still, its shape was different from those of these animals. In addition, histologically, the external connective tissue capsule has branches extending into both the muscle and fat tissue mass, and the thin internal connective tissue capsule separates these two tissues.

A scenario-driven strategy for future habitat management of the Andean bear

Ahmet Acarer — 2024-09-16

Today, climate adaptation strategies are at the forefront in wildlife management and protection studies. This study aimed to model and map the effects of global climate change on the Andean bear, which is in the vulnerable category and distributed in South America. For this purpose, 20 environmental variables and 19 high-resolution Chelsa climate maps that could be effective on Andean bear modeling were created. Moreover, the Maximum Entropy method, which is frequently preferred in species distribution modeling, was preferred. The current habitat suitability model of the Andean bear was in the “very good” model category with the training data set ROC value of 0.973 and the test data set ROC value of 0.972. The variables contributing to the current model are roughness index (41.1%), isothermality (38%), elevation (14%), and annual mean temperature (6.9%), respectively. Variables contributing to the current Andean bear model have been simulated in different scenarios (SSP126/SSP370/SSP585) for the year 2100. However, it has been determined that Andean bear habitats will shrink according to the SSP126 Chelsa climate scenario of the year 2100, these habitats will fragment according to the SSP370 scenario, and brown bear habitats will disappear in some regions in the SSP585 scenario. In conclusion, this study raises alarms that the possible decrease in Andean bear habitats will be approximately 67.3% by the year 2100 due to global climate change.

The population and habitat of Saurauia bontocensis Merr (degway) in Tadian, Mountain Province, Philippines

Genevieve Claudio — 2024-09-26

Any conservation initiative to protect endemic and threatened species must consider their population and habitat. Saurauia bontocensis Merr is an endemic species in the Philippines currently classified as vulnerable and needs conservation. Hence, this study sought information about its population and habitat preference in Tadian, Mountain Province. Results revealed the presence of 36 S. bontocensis plants in the 17 quadrats that were established; 33 are in the tree phase, while three are poles. Most trees are old and need to be rejuvenated and propagated to increase their population, mainly because no wildlings/seedlings are growing in the area. Morisitas index and chi-square results showed that the plants are randomly distributed in the moist areas of the forest with an elevation ranging from 1273–1651 masl, a temperature of 19.9 ^oC to 26.2 ^oC, a humidity of 65.2%-97.9%, a light intensity of 75fc–5295 fc, a soil moisture of 1%-8%, and a soil pH of 3-6.2. They thrive on acidic and loamy soil and survive under varied light intensities. In general, they are adapted to the environmental conditions of the broad-leafed portions of montane forest. With the current population of S. bontocensis, off-site conservation initiatives, with due consideration to the environmental factors of its habitat, should be conducted to increase its population and prevent local extinction. With the right conservation efforts, there is hope for rejuvenating and propagating this species.

Spatial analysis of wildlife trafficking and concealment methods: The case of Pangolins

Lord Sampson — 2024-09-26

A significant threat to the pangolin species worldwide is the illicit trafficking of the mammal for its scales, meat, and skin. The illicit trafficking of pangolins has a potential impact on public health as it enables the transmission of zoonotic diseases, threatens biodiversity by disrupting ecological dynamics, and compromises international security by empowering criminal networks. In-depth information about the concentration of illicit trafficking of pangolin scales and strategies for concealment around the world is provided by this paper's analysis. Using tools such as SPSS and QGIS, the paper reveals that ninety-four percent of pangolin scales were confiscated from these countries—Nigeria, Vietnam, China, Singapore, Hong Kong, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)—highlighting their crucial role in the pangolin trade worldwide. Pareto chart study highlights the necessity of focusing conservation efforts in these high-volume nations to stop this successfully. Africa (42%) and Asia (57%) account for significant shares of pangolin scale seizures, highlighting the need for focused conservation measures. Diverse objects are used in concealment strategies. The paper concludes that to combat the illicit pangolin trade, there should be more law enforcement, community engagement, education, economic measures, international cooperation, and information sharing.

Morpho-economic traits of interspecific cotton hybrid and degree of dominance

Mukhlisa Kudratova — 2024-09-26

This article describes the morphological characteristics of the combinations obtained from the cotton varieties G. mustelinum Miers ex Watt and G. hirsutum L. types tropical ssp. glabrum var. marie-galante and ruderal ssp. punctatum wild tetraploid species by complex hybridization with the cultivated fiber length, fiber yield, boll weight, and 1000 seed weight per plant indicators were determined from valuable economic traits. The results of the level of dominance coefficient in research samples are presented. Based on complex hybridization, genotypes with higher fiber length, fiber output, and 1000 seed weight were formed compared to parental forms in F1 hybrids.

The diversity and breeding potential of G. hirsutum L. genotypes based on the Uzbekistan cotton gene bank collection

Shermuhammad Samanov — 2024-09-26

This article aimed to assess the genetic and selection potential of varietal diversity of tetraploid cultivated species of genus Gossypium L. from various ecological and geographical groups. The article presents data from the results of comparative studies of some morpho-yield traits, such as the boll weight cotton and 1000 seed weight, the length and fiber yield of 2308 samples of G.hirsutum L. belonging to 7 ecotypes from 64 countries. For study samples of the Central Asian ecotype, the boll weight was 5.4-6.3 g, for the Asian ecotype 5.7-6.9 g, for the Eurasian ecotype 3.5-5.7 g, for the European ecotype 3.8-6.4 g, in the American ecotype 5.5-6.4 g, in the African ecotype 5.5-6.5 g, in the Australian ecotype 5.4-7.1 g, also the highest figure was found among Australian samples ecotype. Regarding 1000 seed weight, the highest values were observed in samples of Asian ecotypes 123.0-140.0 g, and African ecotypes 106.0-139.0 g. Presents fiber length for samples of the Central Asian ecotype was 30.2-32.5 mm, for samples of the Asian ecotype 28.7-33.7 mm, for samples of the Eurasian ecotype 26.3-32.8 mm, for samples of the European ecotype 25.0- 35.0 mm, for samples of the American ecotype 29.9-32.9 mm, for samples of the African ecotype 30.0-32.4 mm, for samples of the Australian ecotype 30.2-33.8 mm. The highest rate was found in samples of the European ecotype. Regarding fiber yield, the highest indicators were observed in samples of Central Asian 34.0-38.1 %, European 34.2-40.8%, and American ecotypes 35.9-39.5 %. As a result of studies to assess the economically valuable traits of the world diversity of G. hirsutum L. samples, it was revealed that the highest indicators in traits of boll weight are observed in samples of the Australian ecotype, weight of 1000 seeds in samples of the Asian, fiber length samples of the African ecotypes and fiber yield in European ecotypes. Selected collection samples are recommended for use in cotton breeding.

Morpho-yield contributing traits and correlation of soybean parental and F1 hybrids

Ilkham Kurbanbaev — 2024-09-26

This article presents the research outcome of studies based on the screening for productivity traits of soybean's genetic and botanical collection samples, the productivity indicators of the parental forms selected for cross-breeding, analysis of the correlation between them, and heredity in the F₁ species. The study results show a strong positive correlation between the number of pods per plant, the number of grains per plant, and grain weight. In contrast, the weight of 1000 grains is moderately positively correlated with the weight of grains per plant, while it displayed a weak positive and negative correlation with other species. In the F₁ hybrid generation, it was found that the studied fertility traits were mostly incompletely positive and highly dominant.

Metabolism of volatile metabolites in soybean varieties infected by Fusarium oxysporum

Zokir Toshmatov — 2024-09-26

This is the first report of screening for volatile metabolite metabolism in local soybean cultivars affected by Fusarium blight. Volatile metabolites in the aerial and root parts of three local soybean varieties (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) infected with the Fusarium oxysporum fungus were monitored using gas chromatography. The results showed no significant differences in the volatile metabolites between the above-ground and root parts of the plants. However, as the disease progressed, an increase in the number of similar metabolites was observed in the root parts. Conversely, the quantity of similar volatile metabolites in the aerial parts of the plants decreased as the disease advanced. Notably, 4-aminobenzoic acid was detected in all parts of the samples, with higher concentrations found in the aerial parts than in the root parts.

Habitat suitability modeling of the Caspian Red Deer (Cervus elaphus maral) in the central zone of the Hyrcanian region: Identification of priority conservation areas

Hadi Pourmosa — 2024-09-01

As human development expands, wildlife managers face increasing challenges related to human-wildlife conflicts and land-use changes. Understanding how wildlife selects optimal landscapes is crucial for resolving these conflicts. This study focuses on analyzing the Caspian red deer's habitat status in the Hyrcanian region's central zone to identify optimal habitats. Five habitat suitability models and one combined model were employed to identify areas with high conservation priority for the Maral species. The Random Forest (RF) model was recognized as the best among the species distribution models. Elevation and land use are the most critical factors affecting the distribution of the Maral species. Based on the combined habitat evaluation model, 26.45% of the suitable habitats for the Maral species are located within areas protected by the Department of Environment of Iran. The findings of this research can be used to strengthen or create more efficient pathways for protecting Caspian red deer habitats and to develop conservation plans for areas with high conflict.

Distribution and roost preferences of Indian flying fox (Pteropus medius) in District Kasur, Punjab, Pakistan

Mohsin Masood — 2024-09-01

Present study provides valuable insights into the distribution and roost tree characteristics of the Indian flying fox (Pteropus medius) in the Kasur district of Punjab, Pakistan. Field surveys were conducted on monthly basis across six identified roosting sites each exhibiting distinct environmental features. A total of 9730 individuals were observed throughout the year with all roosting sites used year round except Arain Modal Farm, where bats roosted from September to April. Seasonal migrations were noted with Pteropus medius moving to Changa Manga forest during the mating season and dispersing to other sites in winter due to unfavorable weather conditions. The study identified 103 roost trees belonging to 11 species with Eucalyptus (n = 33) and Ficus (n = 29) being the most frequently used. Roost tree characteristics including tree height and canopy cover were positively correlated with bat abundance indicating a preference for larger trees that provide better protection and space for large colonies. Additionally, habitat preferences were assessed by examining the correlation between bat colony size and various non-roost tree-dependent factors. A significant positive correlation was found between the colony size and the distance to the nearest water body (r = 0.973, p = 0.001), suggesting that bats prefer to roost near water bodies. In contrast, the distances to human settlements, roads, railway tracks and fruit orchards showed insignificant correlations with colony size. These findings underscore the importance of preserving large trees and roosting habitats for the conservation of Pteropus medius in the region.

On the identity and taxonomy of Kraepelinia palpator (Birula, 1903) (Scorpiones: Buthidae) from southeast Iran

Hossein Barahoei — 2024-09-26

Kraepelinia Vachon, 1974 is a monotypic buthid scorpion genus, with its populations distributed in Iran and Turkmenistan. A recent series of specimens were collected from the Sistan region, southeast Iran, during 2019-2023 and used for morphological and molecular studies. The mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene was sequenced for molecular research. Kraepelinia palpator was re-described based on the new specimens. Based on phylogenetic analysis, K. palpator was placed sister to Mesobuthus Vachon, 1950. Phylogenetic trees and genetic distances confirmed the Monophyly of all studied genera of Buthidae in this study. This study found the highest genetic distance (0.155) between K. palpator and Androctonus sp., and the lowest (0.102) was with Mesobuthus rakhshanii. Kraepelinia runs as the most similar taxon to Mesobuthus based on morphological characters. This genus's most important morphological characteristics are the placement of eb trichobothria on the manus and having teeth on the ventral surface of the third metasomal segment. The members of this species are distributed in the lowlands areas.

Understanding human dimensions of Siamese Crocodile reintroduction in Kaeng Krachan National Park, Thailand

Jiraporn Teampanpong — 2024-09-12

Siamese Crocodiles (Crocodylus siamensis) are critically endangered, with populations in only four countries, including Thailand. Despite existing reintroduction know-how, human cohabitants in crocodile habitats hinder their conservation efforts. We surveyed 208 respondents from five villages in Kaeng Krachan National Park (KKNP) to understand human dimensions toward Siamese crocodile reintroduction and conservation. While respondents generally had positive attitudes towards the crocodiles, fear of attacks by farm-bred crocodiles remained a major obstacle. A soft release of farm-bred crocodiles was deemed acceptable, though concerns about potential human-crocodile interactions persisted. By aligning these findings with IUCN SSC guidelines on human-wildlife conflict and coexistence, we emphasize the importance of addressing all levels of potential human-crocodile conflicts (HCC) in KKNP. Essential actions include building trust, creating benefits, practicing good governance, integrating traditional knowledge into reintroduction planning, resolving existing conflicts through community-led solutions, and devising a political ecology of crocodile conservation for acceptable strategies for managing HCC. To support sustainable crocodile reintroduction in KKNP, we recommend engaging unemployed males, fishermen, or temporary employers as citizen scientists, transparently communicating the reintroduction process to stakeholders, and implementing conservation education campaigns. Long-term socio-ecological monitoring is vital for sound decision-making, managing conflicts, and measuring reintroduction success.

Climate change and Pentaclethra macrophylla Benth: Forecasting alterations in native distributional range across West and Central Africa

Akwaji Patrick Ishoro — 2024-09-26

The tree species known as the African oil bean (Pentaclethra macrophylla Benth) retains numerous applications. For rural residents, almost all of its traded elements represent a significant source of income. Numerous terrestrial habitats have reportedly experienced negative biological, temporal, and spatial effects concerning climate change lately. Understanding the out-turn of changing climate towards the geographic distribution of species could help predict their growth or decline and, if necessary, provide appropriate conservation measures. We examined whether climate change will affect the geographical distribution of this species throughout its native distributional area across West and Central Africa in light of the strong interest that this species holds for rural African residents. Under AfriClim RCP 8.5 scenario 2070 conditions, the inquiry was carried out by applying the MaxEnt model. According to the MaxEnt results, climate change shall hold a major footprint toward species' native spread. About 5% (5889 km2) of the nations across West and Central Africa are predicted to have stable species populations. These are mostly the regions located along the southern coasts of Guinea Bissau, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Cote d'Ivoire, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Gabon. The model threshold indicated a huge 95.29% (119135.9 km2) reduction in the species' appropriate habitat. The southern coasts of Senegal, Ghana, Togo, and the Benin Republic, along with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, are predicted to be unsuitable, as are the topmost northern portions associated with the Sahel regions of West and Central African countries. Additionally, it is expected that the entire Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and south-eastern Angola will no longer be appropriate for the species. It is necessary to build up the preservation of the species by raising and establishing it in the anticipated suitable areas/agroforestry plan to ensure its sustainable usage and practicable conservation.

Screening of pear genotypes cultivated in Azerbaijan for resistance genes to fungal disease (Venturia pyrina)

Elsevar Asadov — 2024-09-26

Pear scab (Venturia pyrina) is one of the most dangerous pear diseases in pear orchards in Azerbaijan. Therefore, it is very important to breed scab-resistant pear varieties to minimize the use of fungicides and develop resistance to fungicides. Molecular identification could considerably upgrade pear breeding. Our study aimed to evaluate the resistance of some local pear genotypes using molecular markers against the pathogen Venturia pyrina cultivated in Azerbaijan. Samples of 26 pear genotypes distributed in different regions of Azerbaijan were collected. The 12 molecular markers used have proven useful in identifying resistance genes against Venturia pyrina in pear genotypes. As a result of our research with the help of molecular markers, it was learned that Sarchabudu, Nar pear and Zanciraband pear varieties have more resistance genes against Venturia pyrina pathogen. In addition, Jir pear and Uzunboghaz pear cultivars were found to have no scab resistance gene.

Identification of Corticolous lichens associated with the Argan tree, Argania spinosa, in Arganeraie Biosphere Reserve (Central-Western Morocco)

Yassine Aoutil — 2024-09-05

Corticolous lichen research associated with the argan tree has primarily focused on coastal regions within the Arganeraie Biosphere Reserve. Therefore, this study expands to encompass more continental areas. Field surveys conducted within Targua N'Touchka and Bounaamane rural communes and subsequent laboratory identification revealed a total of 11 lichen taxa, namely: Anaptychia ciliaris (L.) Körb. ex A. Massal., Athallia pyracea (Ach.) Arup, Frödén & Søchting, Diploicia canescens (Dicks.) A. Massal., Lecanora campestris (Schaer.) Hue, Physcia sterallis (L.) Nyl, Punctelia sp., Ramalina lacera (With.) J.R. Laundon, Teloschistes chrysophthalmus (L.) Th. Fr., Teloschistes villosus (Ach.) Norman, Tornabea scutellifera (With.) J. R. Laundon, and Xanthoria parietina (L.) Th. Fr. The taxa Anaptychia ciliaris (L.) Körb. ex A. Massal., Physcia sterallis (L.) Nyl, Punctelia sp., and Teloschistes chrysophthalmus (L.) Th. Fr. are newly recorded as associated with the argan tree. This research underscores the necessity for further studies to fully comprehend the composition, ecology, and distribution of corticolous lichen species within the Arganeraie Biosphere Reserve.

Adaptive distributional changes of Aegithalos caudatus in the Palearctic region during the Ice Age, present, and future periods

Ali Haghani — 2024-09-06

Climate change alters their distribution across a wide geographical range by impacting habitats and bird populations. For the first time globally, this pioneering research integrates climate data, species presence points from field observations, and the international bird data registry. Utilizing various modeling algorithms, it scrutinizes the distribution changes of Aegithalos caudatus across a significant portion of its Palearctic biogeographical range across five distinct time periods: the Last Interglacial, the Last Glacial Maximum, the mid-Holocene, the present, and future scenarios, encompassing both an optimistic outlook with sustainable development policies and a pessimistic projection with ongoing greenhouse gas emissions. The findings revealed that three algorithms random forest, support vector machine, and maximum entropy outperformed other modeling methods in discerning suitable and unsuitable habitats for Aegithalos caudatus. Evaluation using these models highlighted that the peak of species distribution, reaching 40%, was observed during the Last Glacial Maximum period. Conversely, its favorable habitat decreased by 29% during the Last Interglacial period. Moreover, it appears that climate amelioration during the mid-Holocene and present times has increased the habitat suitability of Aegithalos caudatus t across the Palearctic region to 36% and 35%, respectively. In the optimistic scenario for the year 2080, where sustainable policies are adopted to mitigate climate change, there is a notable increase in the distribution and habitat suitability of the long-tailed tit, covering 47% of the Palearctic biogeographical range. Conversely, in the pessimistic scenario, the distribution of this species diminishes to 35%. Across various time periods, the annual temperature range emerges as the most influential climatic factor affecting the habitat suitability of this species.

Coexistence and conflict: Exploring the dynamics of traditional livestock farming and wildlife in the community conserved area, Hyrcanian region

Shirin Parhizkar — 2024-09-12

The Chelav Community Conserved Area, located along the southern Caspian Sea, hosts 39 livestock farms. Despite the pressures of traditional farming, the ecosystem remains vibrant, with an increase in leopard and bear sightings but a decline in wolf populations over the past 20 years. Ranchers have reported more frequent leopard and bear encounters, while wolf sightings have decreased. Approximately 94.87% of respondents express indifference toward leopard and bear attacks, and 89.74% feel the same about wolf attacks. Although most ranchers are indifferent, 10.25% indicated they would kill wolves that repeatedly attack their livestock. The presence of shepherds and guard dogs has been shown to reduce wildlife attacks, with shepherds notably more effective at deterring leopards compared to wolves. The absence of livestock bells has been linked to an increase in leopard and wolf attacks (p-value < 0.01). It is likely that inconsistent protective measures have allowed carnivores to remain in the area, as there are few reports of livestock attacks in adjacent basins. This study underscores the necessity for sustainable coexistence strategies that protect both local livelihoods and wildlife in the Chelav region.

Advancing wildlife management: Pioneering non-invasive Urinalysis protocol for captive ungulates in Pakistan

Yusra Ashfaq — 2024-09-26

Ungulates held in captivity often face challenges in their health and well-being due to the constraints of their artificial environments. Traditional diagnostic methods, such as blood sampling, can induce stress and discomfort in these animals, potentially affecting the accuracy of results and overall welfare. This study explores the protocol establishment of urinalysis as a stress-free alternative diagnostic technique for assessing health and stress levels in captive ungulates. Ethical considerations were followed throughout the study as samples of captive animals, including Zebra, Mouflon, Punjab Urial, and cattle, were collected from Lahore Zoological Garden, Lahore Safari, and Jallo Forest and Wildlife Park. Urinalysis utilized non-invasive techniques to determine the urinary standard values in ungulates, including the urinary proteins. Results indicated that urinalysis provided reliable indicators of health and stress levels in captive ungulates without causing additional stress. The reference standards for urine proteins, specific gravity, creatinine, and urine protein to creatinine ratios have been provided as 13.39 mg/dL,1.009, 57.89 mg/dL, and 0.23. Bradford Assay revealed a concentration of proteins in cattle, Punjab Urial, Mouflons, and zebra with a mean value of 58.56 µg/ml, 40.81 µg/ml, 48.39 µg/ml, and 40.34 µg/ml, respectively. It has been hypothesized that the presence of these concentrations of proteins in captive animals might be responsible for renal dysfunction. Furthermore, urinalysis may be an effective instrument for assessing renal activity and alterations in physiological conditions in ungulates.

Keywords: Urinalysis, Non-invassive, Bradford Assay, Lahore Zoological Garden, captivity, Punjab Urial

Home range and factors affecting the appearance of the fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus) in a human-dominated landscape, Thailand

Chaiwat Klakhaeng — 2024-09-26

A study on the size of the home range and factors affecting the appearance of the fishing cats using satellite collars at Khao Sam Roi Yot Wetland (KSRYWL), Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, Thailand was conducted from June 2022 to February 2024. This study aimed to determine the size of the home range and factors affecting the appearance of this species. Twelve fishing cats, five adult males and seven adult females, were trapped and tagged with satellite collars. The average home range size based on Autocorrelated Kernel Density Estimation (AKDE) of male and female were 6.29 km2 (range 3.40–9.69 km2) and 2.83 km2 (range 1.35–5.25 km2), respectively. The study's results found that factors affecting the appearance of fishing cats were topographic factors, including Elevation Slope, NDVI, and anthropogenic factors, including distance to villages, distance to aquaculture, and distance to abandoned aquaculture, which were significantly significant. The results of the comparative study between male and female leopard fish found that the factor. Distance to aquaculture had a greater effect on the presence of male leopard fish than female leopard fish, meaning that male leopard fish are more vulnerable to threats from humans. The findings of this study can be used for habitat protection and management activities related to species conservation.

Occupancy and activity pattern of Asiatic golden cat and terrestrial pheasants in Bhutan’s Phrumsengla National Park

Ugyen Namgyel — 2024-09-26

The ecological relationship between the polymorphic Asiatic golden cat (Catopuma temminckii) and terrestrial pheasants, apparently threatened due to habitat degradation and hunting in Bhutan’s Phrumsengla National Park, has never been studied yet. This research, which assessed the occupancy and activity pattern of 5 polymorphic Asiatic golden cats and 4 terrestrial pheasants such as blood pheasant (Ithaginis cruentus), Himalayan monal (Lophophorus impejanus), satyr tragopan (Tragopan satyra), and kalij pheasant (Lophura leucomelanos) to determine their predator-prey relationship, has the potential to significantly impact conservation strategies. The images of 5 polymorphic Asiatic golden cats (n= 158) and 4 species of terrestrial pheasants (n=242) captured by infrared digital camera traps (n=24) from October 29^th, 2015, to March 13th, 2016, were analyzed using the CameraSweet programs. Our study revealed negligible predator-prey correlation in the occupancy of polymorphic felids and pheasants despite co-occurring across broadleaf through subalpine forests. On the contrary, the Chi-square test inferred a significant predator-prey relationship in the paired activity patterns of tightly-rosette (first ever recorded for Bhutan in 2015), golden and gray morphs with blood pheasant, thus suggesting it as a potential prey base. Feral dogs that appeared to form predator guild must be decimated to reduce food competition with Asiatic golden cats and prevent the potential risk of transmitting canine distemper and rabies. We recommend reviewing the protection status of pheasants and Asiatic golden cats and delving into the diet composition of polymorphic cats to gain critical insights into formulating an effective conservation strategy amid growing anthropogenic pressure in Phrumsengla National Park.

Food and Feeding Activities of Rhesus Monkey (Macaca mulatta Zimmermann 1780) in Different Altitudinal Habitats in Nepal

Ramchandra Adhikari — 2024-09-26

Data on food and feeding activities are crucial for a deep understanding of monkey’s behavioral responses and adjustment to a particular habitat. The study aimed to find the food plant species, preferred parts, and food composition from May 2022 to April 2023 in three altitudinal varied habitats- Ramdhuni, Dharan, and Dhankuta of eastern Nepal. One troop of Rhesus monkeys was selected in each habitat, and a total of 2754 hours was spent observing the feeding behavior. Data were collected using the focal animal sampling method. There was a decrease in the occupancy of tree food species with an increase in the height of the habitat by 60.63%>51.02%>42.62%. There was a variation in the availability of food items with the changes of season in Ramdhuni, and there was no significant difference between Dharan and Dhankuta. A significant relation of food composition according to season change was found. The monkey preferred mostly fruits in all habitats. The most selected plants by monkeys were also analyzed. The number of parts of the plant eaten and time spent were well correlated except for the herbs in Dhankuta. In most cases, the availability of food items and their occupancy in food composition were positively correlated. Our results suggest planting plants in forests and bare areas to reduce human-monkey conflict.

Selecting a flagship species for Arjan International Wetland in Iran

Iman Ebrahimi — 2024-09-26

Flagship species selection is an effective strategy to promote regional conservation efforts. Arjan International Wetland in southern Iran harbors a high diversity of waterbirds, currently facing multiple threats imposed by human activities. This study aims to select a flagship species from three candidate species: Common Crane (Grus grus), Eurasian Coot (Fulica atra), and Ruddy Shelduck (Tadorna ferruginea) as part of the efforts to promote future conservation of Arjan International Wetland. We based the selection on ten criteria focusing on the physical features of the animals while emphasizing the role of local knowledge and attitudes, and their cultural associations. We used a combination of literature reviews and questionnaire surveys to obtain scores for the criteria and compared among the candidate species. Ruddy Shelduck (Tadorna ferruginea) emerged with the highest score received. It was distinguished from the other two species by strong local recognition, positive associations, and significant cultural relevance. The selection results demonstrated the potential of Ruddy Shelduck in local conservation efforts. This is the first case in which the Ruddy Shelduck was selected as a flagship species, both in Iran and globally. The selection process, driven by local insights, is also expected to significantly enhance future conservation actions. Furthermore, this approach may serve as a model for other regions considering similar conservation strategies.