WCS-AUTHORED PUBLICATIONS, 26 January-1 February 2026
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citations
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 1 of 12
Amaral, A. R., S. Gaughran, M. Giakoumis, R. L. Brownell Jr, A. J. Wilson, G. Minton, R. Baldwin, M. Wilson, S. Al Harthi, A. Al Jabri, T. Collins, K. Van Waerebeek and H. Rosenbaum (In Press). "A whale apart: Genetic isolation of Arabian Sea humpbacks signals subspecies distinction." Frontiers in Marine Science. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science/articles/10.3389/fmars.2026.1735173/abstract
Abstract: Recent genetic studieswork haves differentiated at least three subspecies of humpback whales: Megaptera novaeangliae kuzira in the North Pacific, M. n. novaeangliae in the North Atlantic, and M. n. australis in the Southern Hemisphere (SH), but analyses did not include samples from the Arabian Sea humpback whale population (ASHW). This study aimed to investigate evidence of genetic uniqueness of the ASHW population. Historic data suggest that the Arabian Sea hosts a discrete, isolated and resident population of humpback whales. Bone sample from the M. indica holotype from Iraq (Persian/Arabian Gulf) was collected for comparison with modern-day ASHW genetic data collected from the coastal waters of Oman. Both were also compared with genetic data from Northern and Southern Hemisphere humpback whale populations. Strong levels of genetic differentiation for the ASHW were found, supporting its designation as a subspecies (Fst values 0.1213-0.2441 and φST values 0.0831-0.6470). The recognition of ASHW as a subspecies has biodiversity conservation implications. Population abundance is low with no evidence of increasing over two decades of study. Anthropogenic threats to ASHWs and their habitat are severe and escalating and there is a risk of local extirpation. Population abundance is low with no evidence of increasing over two decades of study. The subspeciation of ASHW may have been driven by a range of interdependent biogeographical and ecological factors coupled with behavioural adaptations over a period of ~43,000-113,000 years. Regionally coordinated conservation action is urgently needed to preserve this population's unique genetic diversity.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 2 of 12
Blythe, J. L., J. Claudet, D. Gill, ..., S. D. Jupiter, ..., E. S. Darling et al. (In Press). "The Ocean Equity Index." Nature. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-09976-y
Abstract: The ocean is essential for humanity. Yet, inequity in ocean-based activities is widespread and accelerating. Addressing this requires governance approaches that can systematically measure equity and track progress. Here we present the Ocean Equity Index (OEI)—a framework for assessing and improving equity in ocean initiatives, projects and policies. We apply the index, which scores twelve criteria, to case studies at local, national and global scales. We show that the OEI can generate structured data to support evidence-based decision-making across ocean sectors and scales. As a theoretically robust and widely applicable tool, the OEI can guide the design of more equitable ocean initiatives, projects or policies, ensuring better outcomes for coastal people and marine ecosystems.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 3 of 12
Cahyani, N. K. D., A. W. Anggoro, R. Prasetia, ..., M. Muhidin, S. A. R. Tarigan et al. (2026). "eDNA metabarcoding as a promising conservation tool to monitor fish diversity in Indonesia Marine Protected Areas." Environmental DNA 8(1), e70242. https://doi.org/10.1002/edn3.70242
Abstract: Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) play a crucial role in conserving marine biodiversity while providing ecological, social, and economic benefits. Effective monitoring is essential for assessing changes in biodiversity and ensuring the sustainability of MPAs. In this context, biodiversity monitoring in Karimunjawa National Park (KNP) provides an excellent opportunity to examine effective monitoring practices. Traditionally, biodiversity assessments have been conducted through visual census methods, which have limitations such as challenges in species identification, time constraints, and high survey costs. To complement visual surveys, this study employed environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding with the 12S rRNA gene, utilizing Oxford Nanopore sequencing to assess fish diversity across different zonation systems within KNP. eDNA analysis detected a total of 183 fish species, with 87 species (38% of the 229 species recorded by visual census) and 25 families (71%) shared between the two methods. Alpha diversity (ANOVA, p > 0.05) showed no significant differences between sites and zonation, whereas community structure (PERMANOVA, p < 0.05) revealed significant differences between sites and zonation. Additionally, eDNA offered complementary insights by detecting broader functional traits than the visual census, such as nocturnal behavior, habitat preferences, and migratory variations of fish species, whereas the visual census predominantly only recorded reef-associated and nonmigratory taxa. These findings demonstrate that eDNA, particularly when integrated with Oxford Nanopore sequencing, is a powerful tool for marine biodiversity monitoring. Standardizing bioinformatics workflows is crucial for ensuring data comparability and maximizing the effectiveness of eDNA-based conservation strategies in Indonesia's MPAs.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 4 of 12
Fischer, F. J., J. Chave, A. Zanne, ..., M. Njana et al. (Early View). "Beyond species means – the intraspecific contribution to global wood density variation." New Phytologist. https://doi.org/10.1111/nph.70860
Abstract: Wood density is central for estimating vegetation carbon storage and a plant functional trait of great ecological and evolutionary importance. However, the global extent of wood density variation is unclear, especially at the intraspecific level. We assembled the most comprehensive wood density collection to date, including 109 626 records from 16 829 plant species across woody life forms and biomes (GWDD v.2, available here: doi: 10.5281/zenodo.16919509). Using the GWDD v.2, we explored the sources of wood density variation within individuals, within species and across environmental gradients. Intraspecific variation accounted for c. 15% of overall wood density variation (SD = 0.068 g cm−3). Variance was 50% smaller in sapwood than heartwood, and 30% smaller in branchwood than trunkwood. Individuals in extreme environments (dry, hot and acidic soils) had higher wood density than conspecifics elsewhere (+0.02 g cm−3, c. 4% of the mean). Intraspecific environmental effects strongly tracked interspecific patterns (r = 0.83) but were 70–80% smaller and varied considerably among taxa. Individual plant wood density was difficult to predict (root mean square error > 0.08 g cm−3; single-measurement R2 = 0.59). We recommend (1) systematic sampling of multiple individuals and tissues for local applications, and (2) expanded taxonomic coverage combined with integrative models for robust estimates across ecological scales.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 5 of 12
Groeneveld, M. J., J. D. Klein, M. van Staden, R. H. Bennett et al. (2026). "Molecular taxonomy of the guitarfish genus Acroteriobatus (Rhinopristiformes: Rhinobatidae)." Marine Biodiversity 56(1), e12. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12526-025-01617-x
Abstract: Guitarfish species (genus Acroteriobatus) display restricted distributions in undermanaged regions of intense fishing pressure. The importance of accurate specimen identification is well established, especially in the context of conservation management. However, guitarfishes remain poorly understood, which is exacerbated by taxonomic uncertainty due to morphological similarity. We therefore aimed (1) to identify molecular operational taxonomic units (MOTUs) within Acroteriobatus by analysing sampled specimens as well as publicly available sequence data for the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and nicotinamide adenine dehydrogenase subunit 2 (ND2) genes, and (2) to augment and review the representation of these sequences on public databases. A molecular taxonomic approach integrating species delimitation and specimen assignment methods revealed 14 MOTUs. These MOTUs aligned with current species descriptions, displaying no evidence of cryptic diversity. Both genes demonstrated similar interspecific relationships that broadly reflected current distribution ranges, underscoring sub-regional endemism. Moreover, discrepancies in public sequence repositories were identified, attributed to misidentified specimens and the usage of outdated taxonomic nomenclature. Genetic diversity indices were substantially inflated when specimens were grouped based on reported species versus delimited MOTUs, thus overestimating genetic diversity. We highlight the need for extensive, curated DNA reference libraries, including revising earlier sequence entries in light of new taxonomic insights, to enable reliable identification of morphologically conserved species. The molecular resolution illustrated in this study can aid in clarifying taxonomic uncertainties in the genus Acroteriobatus.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 6 of 12
Inogwabini, B.-I., C. A. Angoué, F. Maisels and L. J. T. White (2026). "History, development, and politics of protected areas in the Congo Basin countries". In B.-I. Inogwabini, B. Sonke, L.-S. Koutika and L. J. T. White, Eds., Resilience and Sustainability in the Congo Basin: Retracing the Past, Looking to the Future. Cham, Switzerland: Springer Nature. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-032-02023-9_19-1
Abstract: This chapter shows that biodiversity conservation is not a new tradition in the Congo Basin; it has been practiced using different models, including taboos preventing access to sacred areas of hunting of certain species and prohibitions to hunt or fish in certain periods coupled with alternative resources usages. The suggestion that biodiversity conservation and stewardship came with colonization is a blinkered view. The chapter recalls practices to conserve biodiversity that existed before colonization and shows that they may have been sufficient during that period. However, the chapter also describes the creation of protected areas in the era between 1885 and 1960 and beyond in line with other centralized models for resource management adopted during the colonial period. Despite abuses of human rights (rights to lands, right to decent livelihoods, right to political participation, etc.) that accompanied the creation of protected areas during that period, they have remained the only areas where biodiversity thrived and are now the only remaining biodiversity refuges in the Congo Basin, where galloping human demography and the corresponding economic need to cater for increasing human populations exerting untenable tensions on both renewable and nonrenewable natural resources (Dixon and Sherman 1991; Inogwabini 2020). The chapter also documents the lessons learnt from the history of creating protected areas and concludes that, in view of these abuses, the Congo Basin countries have begun to use categories of protected areas that reconcile the need to preserve biodiversity with human development needs, including such models as IUCN category VI reserves, large biodiversity landscapes, community conservation areas and high biodiversity value areas within other land use areas (Sanderson et al. 2002; Toham et al. 2006). Modern protected areas are the sacred forests of nations, created at a scale in proportion to modern threats to biodiversity.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 7 of 12
Ledoux, L., S. G. Platt, W. E. McFee and T. R. Rainwater (2025). "Alligator mississippiensis (American alligator). Diet." Herpetological Review 56(2), 199–200. https://ssarherps.org/herpetological-review-pdfs/
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 8 of 12
Patriquin, K. J., L. Phinney, S. McBurney, D. L. McRuer, R. M. R. Barclay, H. G. Broders, A. Crook, P. A. Faure, J. Humber, A. Hunter, M. Jones, T. S. Jung, C. L. Lausen, D. Losada, T. McBurney, J. M. Ratcliffe, J. L. Segers, D. Washinger and C. K. R. Willis (2026). "Welfare and handling recommendations for bat surveys in Canada." Journal of North American Bat Research 4(Monograph 1), 1–67. https://www.eaglehill.us/NABRonline/access-pages/016-Patriquin-accesspage.shtml
Abstract: Concern for bats and their protection has steadily increased globally over the past 2 decades, including in Canada. This heightened interest has resulted in increased population and health monitoring and greater regulatory requirements for bat-related work, compared to the past. There is also increased awareness about bat welfare when handling, particularly with respect to pathogen transmission. Although guidelines for effective techniques to study bats exist, such recommendations rarely mention explicitly how best to prioritize animal welfare. Instead, safe handling practices are implicit, often passed down from mentor to mentee, and the collective wisdom is seldom permanently recorded. Here, we provide recommendations based on consensus reached through review of existing published materials and thoughtful discussion among leading experts with cultural knowledge that spans decades. These recommendations are not meant to be prescriptive but, instead, describe the latest best practices for capturing and handling bats to promote their welfare during capture-markrecapture surveys. We provide recommendations related to biosafety; capture and removal from nets and traps; techniques for restraint, handling, holding, and release; methods for short- and long-term marking; collection of biological samples; photography; euthanasia; and health surveillance.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 9 of 12
Piland, N. C., T. B. A. Couto, M. Pulido-Velosa, J. Cruz, M. Varese, G. Leite et al. (2026). "Public participation in tropical conservation and environmental management research: Toward a locally grounded and reflexive practice." Biotropica 58(1), e70149. https://doi.org/10.1111/btp.70149
Abstract: Public participation in scientific research (PPSR) is the intentional engagement of the public in scientific inquiry and is increasingly popular in conservation and related fields. It advances knowledge, participant learning opportunities, local innovation and empowerment, and more equitable natural resource management. While the published literature recognizes various PPSR types, many reviews—especially those labeled “citizen science”—have overlooked comparable experiences in tropical regions. Consequently, our current knowledge of PPSR in the tropics is limited to disparate case studies, hindering broader connections and lessons. This review aims to clarify PPSR and the interactions between institutions, the environment, and local and non-local actors by drawing from a bibliometric review and authorial experiences to illustrate the role of PPSR across the tropics. Results show that public participation has significantly contributed to tropical conservation and environmental management for at least 50 years. However, international authorities and scholarly sources only began recognizing its value and potential in the early 1990s. Most publications reviewed (383/453 papers) describe one place-based research activity, with high representation from terrestrial-oriented research, in the field of resource management, and developed countries (e.g., Australia and British, French, and US territories). We follow with vignettes to illustrate participation and make recommendations from our synthesis of lessons. These recommendations present public participation as an opportunity for tropical conservation and environmental management to better value the local context and contributions from diverse communities. This approach encourages embedding participation in more reflexive practices to enhance the overall effectiveness and inclusivity of conservation efforts.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 10 of 12
Platt, S. G. and T. R. Rainwater (2025). "Nerodia fasciata confluens (broad-banded watersnake). Habitat use." Herpetological Review 56(2), 219–220. https://ssarherps.org/herpetological-review-pdfs/
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 11 of 12
Rainwater, T. R., T. Mills, M. P. Hart and S. G. Platt (2025). "Alligator mississippiensis (American alligator). Leucism." Herpetological Review 56(2), 200–201. https://ssarherps.org/herpetological-review-pdfs/
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 12 of 12
Wallace, R. B., S. Rivera, J. Martinez, G. Ayala, A. Reinaga, R. Marquez and S. Strindberg (2026). "Evaluating line transect efficiency for estimating vicuña (Vicugna vicugna) population density and habitat use in the Apolobamba National Natural Integrated Management Area, Bolivia." Journal for Nature Conservation 91, e127235. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jnc.2026.127235
Abstract: Vicuñas (Vicugna vicugna) are sustainably managed in Bolivia as a wild species with highly valuable wool. As part of a community management model, over the last two decades indigenous communities have organized censuses of wild vicuña. In order to validate these community censuses, we estimated vicuña population density and abundance in the Apolobamba National Natural Integrated Management Area in the northwestern Bolivian Andes using a line transect distance sampling approach. We placed 54 transects across 690 km2 covering most of the vicuña distribution within Apolobamba, with transects conducted on motorcycles on the flatter Andean plain and on foot in the adjacent hills. Using a Multiple Covariate Distance Sampling (MCDS) approach and based on 252 transect encounters the vicuña population density was estimated at 12.53 individuals/km2 (95% CI 9.51 – 15.07) overall with a half-normal model. A complementary occupancy sampling analysis of the survey data indicated that vicuña occupancy was higher as distance to peat bog increased and vicuña detectability was greater when line transects were conducted on foot. Our population estimate for the area where local communities and park guards traditionally count vicuña was 12,527 animals (95% CI 10,614–––13,815). The community census conducted immediately before our survey counted 11,978 animals. This parity in results for the two methodologies is important as the community census methodology is widely applied across Bolivia to evaluate wild vicuna populations under community management. Our results validate the community census methodology as an accurate and participative methodology for monitoring wild vicuña populations into the future.
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WCS-AUTHORED PUBLICATIONS, 19-25 January 2026
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citations
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 1 of 5
Altman-Kurosaki, N. T., R. J. Chen, I. R. Caldwell et al. (2026). "Estimating sea urchin bioerosion: Global synthesis and a case study inside and outside of no-take MPAs around O‘ahu, Hawai‘i." Marine Biology 173(2), e30. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00227-025-04768-4
Abstract: Estimating sea urchins’ contribution to reef erosion—and how it is shaped by local interventions—is central to understanding the balance of accretion and erosion that supports coral reef persistence in a warming, acidifying ocean. Here, we paired a literature review with a field study on O‘ahu, Hawai‘i to (1) summarize the spatiotemporal distribution of studies on urchin erosion compared to herbivory, (2) examine the role of no-take marine protected areas (MPAs) relative to environmental drivers of urchin community composition around O‘ahu, (3) assess how this then affects urchin bioerosion, gross bioerosion, and net accretion on O‘ahu. Our literature review revealed that urchins have been widely studied but the annual number of studies examining bioerosion has remained relatively flat over the past 35 years, especially compared to the increasing number of studies on herbivory. O‘ahu urchin community composition was affected by wave energy, depth, and coral cover, but not MPAs or the biomass of urchin competitors and predators. These differences drove patterns in gross bioerosion, and despite MPAs not affecting urchin community composition, bioerosion was higher outside of three of four O‘ahu MPAs, driven largely by urchin contributions to gross bioerosion. Estimated net accretion was low around O‘ahu, and was only consistently positive in Kāne‘ohe Bay, where urchins were scarce. Our results suggest that urchin community composition can affect carbonate budgets on O‘ahu and highlight the need for more empirical study on the effects of urchin bioerosion on reef structure in the face of continued environmental change.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 2 of 5
Juarez Martinez, I., A. Kacelnik, F. M. Jones, ..., A. Raya Rey et al. (Early View). "Record phenological responses to climate change in three sympatric penguin species." Journal of Animal Ecology. https://doi.org/10.1111/1365-2656.70201
Abstract: 1. The timing of breeding is an important aspect of any species' realised niche, reflecting adaptations to synchronise with food supplies, dilute predation, avoid competition and exploit seasonal fluctuations in resources. Breeding phenology is typically studied either through long-term monitoring of focal populations (limiting the strength of inferences about species-wide traits and trends) or, when conducted at a landscape level, using remotely visible traits (restricting most studies to plants). 2. For the first time, this study demonstrates landscape-scale measurement of vertebrate breeding phenology using a network of 77 time-lapse cameras to monitor three sympatric penguin species across 37 colonies in the Antarctic Peninsula and Sub-Antarctic islands. 3. Camera temperature loggers showed penguin colony locations are warming up four times faster (0.3°C/year) than the continental average (0.07°C/year), already the second fastest-warming area in the world. 4. We analysed the start of the breeding season of Adélie, Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins at a sub-continental scale between 2012 and 2022. The phenology of all three species advanced at record rates (10.2 ± 2, 10.4 ± 1.5 and 13 ± 4 days/decade, respectively). 5. Different demographic trends as well as intra- and inter-species differences in response to environmental change suggest niche-based response differences between species. 6. Phenological advances are causing niche separation to reduce. In this context, the Gentoo penguins' generalist and resident nature seems better suited to compete for space and resources than krill-specialist Chinstraps and ice-specialist Adélies. 7. Synthesis: A decade of observation of the three pygoscelid penguins shows they are advancing their settlement phenology at record speeds in relation to climate change across the Antarctic Peninsula. These changes are species-dependent, reflecting different vulnerabilities and opportunities depending on their niche and life-history traits. In the long term, the trend towards earlier settlement risks increasing inter-species competition, causing trophic and temporal mismatch, and reshaping community assemblages.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 3 of 5
Libalah, M. B., T. Liyandja, R.-L.-P. K. Banoho, ..., R. Fotso et al. (2026). "Human influence on current status of biodiversity of the Congo Basin". In B.-I. Inogwabini, B. Sonke, L.-S. Koutika and L. J. T. White, Eds., Resilience and Sustainability in the Congo Basin: Retracing the Past, Looking to the Future. Cham, Switzerland: Springer Nature. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-032-02023-9_22-1
Abstract: The vast tropical zone of the Congo Basin was historically an intact ecosystem shaped by climatic fluctuations and gradual presence of Hominins (modern humans and close relatives) dating back at least 730,000 years BP. Early hunter–gatherers of the Late Stone Age had minimal ecological impacts. From ~40,000 years BP, the Neolithic introduced slash-and-burn agriculture and iron smelting, pottery, and polished stone tools, leading to localized forest changes during the Iron Age. The Industrial Revolution accelerated transformation with colonial exploitation of timber, ivory, rubber, and other resources, combined with increased hunting and settlement that caused widespread deforestation, biodiversity loss, and human suffering through conflicts and diseases.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 4 of 5
Lindsey, P., S. K. Nicholson, P. G. R. Coals, ..., S. Nampindo et al. (2026). "Increasing targeted poaching of lions for trade has the potential to pose an existential threat to the species in Africa." Conservation Letters 19(1), e70014. https://doi.org/10.1111/con4.70014
Abstract: Lions (Panthera leo) in Africa are targeted for the illegal wildlife trade, driven by demand in African and Asian markets, for their body parts. This threat is distinct from traditional drivers of lion decline such as prey depletion, habitat loss, and persecution and is poorly understood, underreported, growing, and prone to the influence of organized transnational crime. Here, we synthesize the current state of knowledge on targeted poaching for lion parts, identify key conservation and legal challenges, and propose a coordinated response agenda, drawing on examples from around the continent. We call for consideration in six critical areas: improving in situ protection, effective engagement of communities in conservation interventions, improved understanding of trade dynamics, disrupting the trade via multiple mechanisms, strengthening legal frameworks, and demand reduction. We recommend a proactive approach to prevent entrenchment of poaching and illicit markets and avert severe impacts on lion populations. Without coordinated action to address targeted poaching, there is a significant risk of lion population declines and extirpations. Urgent action is needed to acknowledge and address this issue, because it represents a potentially existential threat to the species.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 5 of 5
McClanahan, T. R. (2026). "From expansion to overshoot: Policy risks in managing offshore fisheries expansion." Marine Policy 187, e107059. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpol.2026.107059
Abstract: Fishing grounds frequently expand as overfishing of the nearshore promotes policies to increase access and economic incentives to target offshore resources. Subsidies for boats, gear, and fuel have been introduced to shift effort offshore and compensate for declining catches. Therefore, I tested the hypothesis that fishing area expansion would increase the use of offshore-oriented gears and benthic catch losses would be compensated by increased pelagics. To evaluate these increased access strategies, I analyzed 23 years of effort, gear use, and catch data from 13 nearshore fisheries in Kenya, nine of which expanded spatially while four remained stable. Initially, expansion correlated with higher fishing effort and increased use of beach seines and ring nets. Beach seine use declined in the non-expanding and rose in the expanding fisheries, despite being made illegal 6 years after catch measurements began. Thereafter, effort and catch rates declined rapidly below the initial and non-expanding fisheries values. Pelagic catches rose cyclically after the decline but for 15 years failed to fully offset benthic losses. Although nearshore fishable biomass and production recovered modestly as fisher numbers fell, capture consistently exceeded local ecological production. Policies promoting offshore fishing access should consider that pelagic yields are potentially low and episodic and may not reliably replace the higher and more stable benthic production. To achieve nearshore fish recovery, enhanced resource protection coincident with offshore access will be required.
Grey Literature and Prepublication Citations
Grey Literature and Prepublication Citation 1 of 4
Julian, P., J. A. H. Kirkwood, B. Lahuatte and C. Kagaba Kairumba (Prepublication). “A rapid evidence assessment on the impact of climate change on peatland carbon dynamics in South America.” Research Square. https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8612747/v1
Abstract: Peatlands are vitally important ecosystems characterized by a diversity of services spanning species, ecosystem, landscape, and global scales. Peatlands store globally significant amounts of carbon, making it critical to understand how peatland carbon stocks will respond to climate change and development pressures. South America is estimated to contain approximately 10–13% of the world’s peatlands, representing a globally significant carbon reservoir. Knowledge of peatlands and their carbon storage and cycling in South America remains poorly synthesized, despite their diversity across elevation and climatic gradients, and their disproportionate importance in the global peatland carbon pool. We conducted a rapid evidence assessment (REA) of carbon dynamics in South American peatlands, emphasizing differences between high- and low-elevation systems and the effects of climate change and disturbance. Using predefined inclusion criteria, we reviewed 272 peer-reviewed studies published between 2000 and 2024. The majority of the literature was paleoecological (n = 47), and short-duration carbon flux studies (n = 15), yet fewer than 1% of studies investigated long-term peat decomposition rates that could be used as inputs for future climate scenario modeling. High-elevation peatlands generally exhibit long-term carbon accumulation but show high sensitivity to warming and hydrological change, whereas low-elevation peatlands contain large carbon stocks that are vulnerable to drought, flooding, fire, and land-use disturbance. Across elevations, climate variability frequently amplifies disturbance-driven carbon losses. Major gaps remain in long-term monitoring, decomposition measurements, and climate scenario modeling. Our synthesis highlights the need for coordinated research, monitoring, and conservation strategies to protect South American peatlands and their critical role in the global carbon cycle under future climate change.
Grey Literature and Prepublication Citation 2 of 4
Patel, E., T. Hashmi, D. Chan, …, L. Keatts, S. Lugandu, P. Masudil, S. Mbilinyi et al. (2025). Dynamic Drivers of Human and Animal Disease Risk in Wild Meat Value Chains. ILRI Research Report 129. Nairobi, Kenya: International Livestock Research Institute at CGIAR. https://hdl.handle.net/10568/180166
Grey Literature and Prepublication Citation 3 of 4
Rodgers, T. W., A. Basto, R. Castro, E. M. R. Groves, C. C. Y. Xu et al. (Prepublication). “Extraction-free iDNA metabarcoding of small dung beetles is an efficient method for surveying arboreal mammals in tropical forests.” bioRxiv. https://doi.org/10.64898/2026.01.16.699964
Abstract: Surveying mammals in tropical rainforests, particularly those that inhabit the rainforest canopy, can be challenging. We tested a novel method for detecting rainforest mammals with metabarcoding of iDNA at Los Amigos Biological Station in the Peruvian Amazon. We used an extraction-free, direct PCR approach to metabarcode vertebrate DNA, whereby buffer from tubes that contained dung beetles for 24 hours was used directly in PCR, negating the need for labor-intensive dissection and DNA extraction. We used a mammal-specific marker targeting the mitochondrial 16S gene and a general metazoan marker targeting the mitochondrial COI gene. From just 105 dung beetles, mostly small beetles from the genus Sylvicanthon, we detected 42 vertebrate species from 16 orders and 26 families, including 33 mammal species and 10 primates. Of the mammals, more than half were arboreal species. The mammal-specific 16S marker detected more mammal species, but the general COI marker detected some mammals not detected by 16S plus eight avian and one fish species, and, in most cases, yielded sequences from the dung beetles themselves. Because small dung beetles are often abundant and easy to catch in tropical forests, this extraction-free direct PCR method provides a powerful and efficient tool for monitoring mammalian diversity. Our results demonstrate that this method works particularly well for primates and other arboreal mammals that are challenging to detect with traditional methods.
Grey Literature and Prepublication Citation 4 of 4
Wildlife Conservation Society, Uganda (2025). Analysis of Case Studies on Biodiversity Conservation and the Implementation of the Mitigation Hierarchy in Uganda. Kampala, Uganda: COMBO. https://library.wcs.org/en-us/Scientific-Research/Research-Publications/Publications-Library/ctl/view/mid/40093/pubid/DMX5250400000.aspx
Abstract: A case study analysis was undertaken to investigate experience in implementing the mitigation hierarchy and offsets, to identify lessons and provide recommendations for improving practice. Twelve (12) case studies were analysed. Ecosystem restoration, application of the mitigation hierarchy at project and strategic levels, achieving additional conservation outcomes, equivalence in the measurement and exchange of biodiversity, and ensuring long-term outcomes and sustainability emerged as the key themes. To improve mainstreaming of biodiversity into development planning at all levels, we recommend strengthening legal and institutional frameworks; undertaking integrated (biodiversity inclusive) planning and zoning; improving impact assessment and application of the mitigation hierarchy; and establishing an accessible, centralised platform for biodiversity data. To strengthen implementation and sustainability of conservation initiatives, we recommend ensuring additional conservation outcomes; participatory planning and implementation to achieve social equity; ensuring adequate long-term financing; providing for long-term security and maintenance of targeted areas; effective ecological management and sustained stakeholder involvement; and ongoing capacity building.
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WCS-AUTHORED PUBLICATIONS, 12-18 January 2026
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citations
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 1 of 6
Buchner, J., K. E. Lewińska, V. Butsic, ..., E. V. Bragina et al. (2026). "Assessing the effectiveness of strictly protected areas in preventing forest loss and degradation across different forest types in the Caucasus." Biological Conservation 315, e111685. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2025.111685
Abstract: Protected areas are a cornerstone of conservation, designed to preserve ecosystems such as forests. While their effectiveness to stem forest loss is well understood, preventing forest degradation is less clear, although selective logging can alter forest structure and affect biodiversity. It is also unclear how effectiveness varies among forest types. We assessed whether strictly protected areas established before the collapse of the Soviet Union were effective in preventing forest loss and degradation in coniferous, mixed, and deciduous forests across the Caucasus, a biodiversity hotspot. We used an available land-cover classification dataset from 1987 to 2015 to assess forest loss, and mapped degradation using spectral mixture analysis of Landsat imagery from 1988 to 2019 specifically for this study. To assess effectiveness, we applied propensity score matching and panel regressions. We found that protected areas in Armenia and Azerbaijan were effective in preventing forest loss but largely ineffective in preventing degradation. Protected areas in Georgia and Russia were ineffective in preventing forest loss and degradation. Among forest types, degradation was only lower in mixed forests in protected areas across the Caucasus. Our results suggest that (a) including forest degradation in assessments provides important insights into forest threats, and (b) the level of effectiveness varies among forest types. Rare forest types with economically valuable tree species may be disproportionately affected, and their threats can only be detected when looking beyond forest loss. Information on degraded forests can support both monitoring and future restoration, highlighting the need for various indictors when assessing protection outcomes.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 2 of 6
Cochran, J. E. M., R. Charles, A. J. Temple, ..., A. A. Banerjee, ..., A. J. Barnes, ..., R. H. Bennett, ..., D. van Beuningen et al. (2026). "Only one percent of important shark and ray areas in the Western Indian Ocean are fully protected from fishing pressure." Ecology and Evolution 16(1), e72690. https://doi.org/10.1002/ece3.72690
Abstract: The Western Indian Ocean (WIO) is known for its high diversity of chondrichthyans (sharks, rays, and chimaeras). However, intense fishing pressure has led to severe population declines and local extinctions of several species. The Important Shark and Ray Area (ISRA) process is a collaborative, evidence-based approach used to identify critical habitat for chondrichthyans. We analysed ISRAs across the WIO to quantify the diversity of research methods used to identify them, evaluate spatial overlap with designated marine protected areas (MPAs), model the influence of several species- and jurisdiction-specific variables on ISRA delineation, and explore the importance of incorporating unpublished data into the delineation process. In total, 125 ISRAs (covering > 2.8 million km2; ~10% of total regional surface area) were identified within the WIO from surface waters to ~2000 m depth. These ISRAs contain over one-third (n = 104, 39%) of the 270 chondrichthyan species reported from the region, with 76% being threatened with extinction according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The underlying evidence supporting ISRA identification was primarily drawn from relatively inexpensive research methods, such as visual census (25%) or fish-market/landing site surveys (22.6%), as well as citizen science (9.5%). Incorporating unpublished records substantially increased the frequency of ISRA delineation, leading to expanded taxonomic and geographic coverage. Still, the full dataset was influenced by the same biases as the published record, tending to favour large-bodied, wide-ranging, and shallow-dwelling species. Only 7.1% of ISRAs are within designated MPAs, with just 1.2% in fully protected no-take areas. The highest no-take overlap occurs in the Seychelles and Chagos Archipelago. These findings highlight the shortfalls in spatial protection of chondrichthyan habitats, but also present a strategic opportunity for policy-makers and resource managers to improve current MPA coverage and meet their commitments under international agreements, such as the Global Biodiversity Framework.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 3 of 6
Htike, M. H., T. K. Fuller, H. Naing and C. R. Griffin (2025). "Spatial and temporal coexistence dynamics of three phasianids in Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary, northern Myanmar." Journal of Asian Ornithology 41, 15–25. https://www.orientalbirdclub.org/jao-41
Abstract: We studied the coexistence dynamics of three sympatric phasianid species--the Grey Peacock-pheasant Polyplectron bicalcaratum, Kalij Pheasant Lophura leucomelanos and Red Junglefowl Gallus gallus--in Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary, northern Myanmar, using a camera-trap survey conducted during the 2018-2019 dry season. Habitat covariates such as canopy cover, elevation and proximity to human settlements were analysed to assess occupancy patterns. The Grey Peacock-pheasant preferred lowlands with high canopy cover, Kalij Pheasant favoured higher elevations with medium to high canopy cover, and Red Junglefowl occupied medium canopy areas at higher elevations. Substantial overlap in diurnal activity periods suggested potential temporal niche partitioning. This study highlights habitat-specific occupancy and coexistence strategies, emphasising the importance of habitat protection and population monitoring for the long-term conservation of these species.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 4 of 6
Jiménez-Ruiz, S., F. Jori, N. Santos, J. A. Barasona and A. E. Fine (In Press). "[Editorial] Pathogen transmission at the domestic-wildlife interface: A growing challenge that requires integrated solutions." Frontiers in Veterinary Science. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1780843/abstract
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 5 of 6
Lera, M., E. Frere, J. Marino et al. (In Press). "Shifting predator–prey dynamics at the land–sea interface: The case of Magellanic penguins and pumas." Journal for Nature Conservation, e127208. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jnc.2025.127208
Abstract: The expansion of Magellanic penguins into mainland territory in Argentina is providing a new prey to recovering puma populations. This dietary shift was first reported about 20 years ago, but its extent remains poorly studied. Here, we present a comprehensive analysis of puma predation on penguins in Monte León National Park (MLNP), in Argentinian Patagonia, and explore its effects on this breeding population. We analysed puma predation over four consecutive breeding seasons (2007–2010) and modelled the demography of the colony under different reproductive success, juvenile survival, and puma-induced mortality rates, to test whether sustained mortality could compromise its long-term persistence. We estimated that, during our study, 7,087 adult penguins were killed in total, representing a cumulative 7,60 % of the breeding population. Puma predation occurred throughout the entire colony, with hotspots on the southern and northern edges, and included events of surplus killing. Demographically, the population was most sensitive to variations in juvenile survival and reproductive success. Regardless of the predation level, low reproductive success combined with low or medium juvenile survival led to extinction within 100 years. Puma predation lowered population growth but did not cause colony extinction; substantial reductions occurred under medium reproductive success with low juvenile survival, or low reproductive success with high juvenile survival. These findings highlight a broader conservation concern: the growing vulnerability of mainland seabird colonies to terrestrial predator expansion. We recommend sustained monitoring of this and other colonies to detect early demographic declines and inform management actions to mitigate excessive puma predation.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 6 of 6
Majgaonkar, I., A. Paul, S. Sharma and I. Ghorpade (2026). "Mislabeled and misunderstood: Large mammal distribution underscores ecological significance of agro-pastoral “wastelands” in India's Deccan Peninsula." Ecology and Evolution 16(1), e72937. https://doi.org/10.1002/ece3.72937
Abstract: Multi-use landscapes are now recognized for their value in supporting biodiversity and aiding species conservation, including charismatic megafauna. However, semi-arid open-canopy human-use landscapes have faced multiple anthropogenic stressors over the past centuries and have received meager conservation attention, especially in South Asia. A growing body of evidence suggests that such ecosystems, even with intermittent human use, can provide habitats for globally threatened species and support their conservation. To understand the role of semi-arid multi-use landscapes in supporting populations of large-bodied wildlife in India's Deccan Peninsula, we used key informant interviews with pastoralists and a single-season single-species occupancy modeling framework and examined the distribution of three species: striped hyena Hyaena hyaena, sloth bear Melursus ursinus, and blackbuck Antilope cervicapra. Hyena, sloth bear and blackbuck occupied 52%, 26% and 63% of the landscape, respectively, despite the absence of intensively managed protected areas. Conservative estimates suggest that Indian gray wolf (Canis lupus pallipes) was present in at least 76% of the landscape. ONEs favored occupancy of hyena and sloth bear, while low-intensity agriculture supported blackbuck presence. Our results highlight the conservation potential of agro-pastoral landscapes and challenge the narrative of characterizing semi-arid open ecosystems as “wastelands”. We also demonstrate how experiential knowledge of communities can be applied to ecological research when using traditional methods is infeasible. Under global change scenarios, misclassification and mismanagement of critical socio-ecological systems, such as the ONEs of Deccan Peninsula, will not only jeopardize the survival of populations of threatened species but also weaken the land-sharing potential of these regions.
Grey Literature Citations
Grey Literature Citation 1 of 1
Dissondet, B., E. Dilambaka, G. De Bruyne, Y. Mvomo Minko and M. Cournarie (2025). 5 Ans de Suivi des Elasmobranches au Debarcadere de Songolo (Pointe-Noire) Republique du Congo. Brazzaville, Congo: Wildlife Conservation Society. https://doi.org/10.19121/2025.Report.52503
Les captures des requins et raies à Songolo sont peu documentées en l’absence d’un suivi scientifique rigoureux à long termes alors qu’une activité de pêche intense est observée autour de ces espèces durant toutes les années. Ce rapport met en exergue les résultats de 5 années de suivi des captures des Elasmobranches à Songolo, le plus grand débarcadère de la pêche maritime artisanale du Congo. Ce suivi qui a débuté en août 2018 en complément des études menées par le programme marin Congo pour démontrer la richesse de la zone économique exclusive congolaise. L’étude a permis de mieux comprendre l’organisation de la pêche des requins à Songolo en partant des engins cibles aux embarcations spécialisées dans capturent plus d’Elasmobranches et les quantités de requins pêchés. Pendant 919 jours représentant 1 651 heures de collecte, nous avons suivi 1 754 débarquements issus de 377 pirogues pour un total de 106 473 requins et raies échantillonnés. La diversité spécifique issue de cette étude était composée de 44 espèces d’Elasmobranches (26 espèces de requins et 18 espèces de raies) appartenant à 27 genres et 19 familles. La famille des Carcharhinidae (12 espèces et 4 genres) suivie de celle des Myliobatidae (7 espèces et 5 genres) sont celles qui ont été plus observées dans ce débarcadère. Le requin-marteau-halicorne (Sphyrna lewini, n=36 878) suivi du requin bordé (Carcharhinus limbatus, n=19 203) du requin museau pointu (Rhizoprionodon acutus, n=16 782), du requin tisserand (Carcharhinus brevipinna, n=10 929), du requin soyeux (Carcharhinus falciformis, n=5 489) et de la raie-guitare fouisseuse (Glaucostegusus cemiculus, n=19 203). Ces six espèces ont montré également une saisonnalité constante durant ces 5 années de captures. Les résultats des captures par unité d’effort par engin et par pirogue nous ont permis de se rendre que le filet à requin dérivant (Ndali en vili et Foussa) est le filet qui affiche une CPUE élevée (1 012,27 kg/sortie) suivi du filet à requin calé (Kout en vili et Abgla en popo) avec une CPUE de 912,25 kg/sortie. A côté de ces deux filets il y a le filet dormant (Chinzi en vili et Tonga en popo) qui est beaucoup plus régulier et utilisé par les pirogues vili avec une CPUE de 166,51 kg/sortie. Au niveau des types de pirogues, il a révélé que les pirogues PMPR (popo motorisées pélagiques et requins) ont une CPUE moyenne de 2 627 ± 3 627 kg/sortie pendant ces 5 ans. Elles sont suivies des pirogues PMP (popo motorisées pélagiques) avec une CPUE moyenne annuel de 719,88 ± 155 kg/sortie, des pirogues PMPD (popo motorisées pélagiques et démersales) avec une CPUE moyenne annuelle de 613,56 ± 561 kg/sortie. Les analyses de stades de maturités sexuelles des six espèces les plus débarquées ont révélées que les individus étaient souvent capturés avant leur stade de maturité à l’exception du requin museau pointu (Rhizoprionondon acustus,) avec une longueur moyenne de 90,11 ±15,54 cm pour 370 dont la morphométrie a été pris en compte. Quant à la saisonnalité pour ces six espèces, elles sont toutes débarquées tout le long de l’années avec des pics mensuels de capture différents d’une espèce à l’autre. Les espèces capturées affichent malheureusement des statuts de conservation alarmants. Sur les 44 espèces d’Elasmobranches débarquées, 80% sont menacées (30% en danger critique, 20% en danger et 30% vulnérables. 27 sur 44 espèces représentant 87% de la biomasse totale des captures sont classées à l’Annexe II de la CITES tandis que 10 % sont classées à l’annexe I de la CMS et 20% à l’Annexe II de la même convention. Le travail de terrain a été rendu possible grâce à la collaboration avec la direction interdépartementale de la pêche de Pointe-Noire et Kouilou que nous exprimons notre profonde gratitude. Aux pêcheurs côtiers de Songolo sans qui ce taxon ne serait être connu. Enfin, notre reconnaissance va vers les Experts de l’Université d’Exeter, Kristian Metcalfe et Philip Doherty qui nous ont énormément appuyé scientifiquement dans la réalisation de ce travail.
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WCS-AUTHORED PUBLICATIONS, 5-11 January 2026
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citations
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 1 of 9
Chung, F. C., L. Sikim, D. A. Spiji and B. M. Manjaji-Matsumoto (2026). "A catalogue of coral reef fishes from the Sugud Islands Marine Conservation Area, Sabah, Malaysia." Zootaxa 5741(1), 115–147. https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5741.1.4
Abstract: This study provides the first comprehensive checklist of coral reef fishes from the Sugud Islands Marine Conservation Area (SIMCA), Sabah, Malaysia, a strictly no-take marine protected area (MPA) in the Sulu Sea. Based on underwater surveys and intercepted trawl landings conducted between 2006 and 2023, we recorded 622 species representing 73 families. The most species-rich families were Labridae (74 species), Pomacentridae (61), and Gobiidae (57), together with six other families that collectively comprised 55% of all records. The Coral Reef Fish Diversity Index (CFDI) estimated a potential richness of 647 species. Thirty-six species are listed on the IUCN Red List, including four Critically Endangered elasmobranchs, with Rhina ancylostoma (Bowmouth Guitarfish) representing the first record for SIMCA. Eight species are listed under CITES Appendix II, and three are regulated by Malaysian law. Long-term monitoring was essential for detecting cryptic, nocturnal, and wide-ranging taxa that would likely have been overlooked in short-term studies. These results demonstrate the value of sustained protection in maintaining high species diversity and provide a baseline for future biodiversity management and conservation planning in Malaysia’s Coral Triangle waters.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 2 of 9
Dymit, E. M., J. P. Twining, R. Garcia-Anleu et al. (2026). "Niche partitioning among neotropical felids." Journal of Animal Ecology 95(1), 115–130. https://doi.org/10.1111/1365-2656.70173
Abstract: 1. Understanding how sympatric predators coexist remains a central question in community ecology, particularly when those species are phylogenetically related obligate carnivores with similar body sizes and trophic roles. In the neotropics this challenge is particularly salient because jaguars (Panthera onca), pumas (Puma concolor), ocelots (Leopardus pardalis) and margays (Leopardus wiedii) are broadly sympatric pairs of large- and medium-bodied hypercarnivores in apparent violation of the principle of limiting similarity. 2. We conducted a comprehensive multi-dimensional analysis of coexistence mechanisms among two large-bodied (jaguars and pumas) and two medium-bodied (ocelots and margays) felids by quantifying spatial, temporal, and dietary niche partitioning in the Maya Biosphere Reserve, Guatemala. To do so, we integrated high-resolution fecal DNA metabarcoding using extant and novel assays, ground and arboreal camera trapping and abundance-mediated species interaction models. 3. Contrary to expectations, we found little evidence for body size-based prey partitioning among pairs of similarly sized felids. Instead, vertical dietary partitioning driven by selection of arboreal versus terrestrial prey emerged as the dominant axis of niche differentiation. Jaguars specialized on large terrestrial prey—notably peccaries—and armadillos, while pumas exhibited high consumption of arboreal primates. Among smaller felids, despite high uncertainty, margays appeared to more strongly select arboreal prey. 4. Also contrary to expectations, we found little evidence for spatial segregation, even among species with potential for interference competition. Despite high rates of intraguild predation observed between certain species pairs, jaguars, pumas and ocelots exhibited positively associated capture rates. Abundance-mediated interaction modelling revealed weak to no evidence of interspecific interactions between the species driving spatial or temporal variation in abundance. Likewise, pairs of felids with similar body sizes had broadly overlapping daily activity patterns. However, temporal activity patterns reduced overlap between large- and medium-bodied felids, suggesting diel shifts may help mitigate interference competition and intraguild predation. 5. Our findings highlight arboreal versus terrestrial prey selection as a key mechanism facilitating coexistence among size-based species pairs in neotropical forests. We demonstrate the benefits of incorporating high-resolution diet analysis, canopy camera trapping and arboreality assessments into future tropical carnivore ecology research to reveal how vertical niche dynamics facilitate species coexistence.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 3 of 9
Fagan, W. F., A. G. Krishnan, C. H. Fleming, ..., D. G. Miquelle et al. (2025). "Wild canids and felids differ in their reliance on reused travel routeways." Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 122(40), e2401042122. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2401042122
Abstract: Diverse factors, including environmental features and cognitive processes, can drive animals’ movements and space use, with far-reaching implications. For example, repeated use of individual-level travel routeways (directionally constrained but imperfectly aligned routes), which results in spatial concentration of activity, can shape encounter-based processes including predation, mate finding, and disease transmission. However, how much variation in routeway usage exists across species remains unknown. By analyzing GPS movement tracks for 1,239 range-resident mammalian carnivores—representing 16 canid and 18 felid species from six continents—we found strong evidence of a clade-level difference in species’ reliance on repeatedly used travel routeways. Across the global dataset, tracked canids had a 15% (±7 CI) greater density of routeways within their home ranges than did felids, rising to 33% (±16 CI) greater in landscapes shared with tracked felids. Moreover, comparisons within species across landscapes revealed broadly similar home range routeway densities despite habitat differences. On average, canids also reused their travel routeways more intensively than did felids, with hunting strategies and spatial contexts also contributing to the intensity of routeway usage. Collectively, our results suggest that key aspects of carnivore routeway-usage have an evolutionary component. Striking interspecific and clade-level differences in carnivores’ reliance on reused travel routeways within home ranges identify important ways in which the movement patterns of real-world predators depart from classical assumptions of predator-prey theory. Because such departures can drive key aspects of human-wildlife interactions and other encounter-based processes, continued investigations of the relationships between movement mechanisms and space use are critical.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 4 of 9
Gianelli, I., L. M. Pereira, V. Brun, ..., E. S. Darling, ..., S. D. Jupiter et al. (In Press). "Reimagining coral reef futures." npj Ocean Sustainability. https://doi.org/10.1038/s44183-025-00179-6
Abstract: Coral reefs are vital social-ecological systems, but highly vulnerable to global change and local stressors. While conveying the urgency of existential threats is paramount, bleak outlooks can become self-reinforcing, limiting capacities to act. To counter this, experts working on coral reefs in diverse geographies imagined coral reef futures through a structured visioning process. The resulting visions offer alternatives aspiring to desirability, sustainability, and equity for coral reefs. These broaden the conversation on coral reef futures, enabling discussions beyond siloed conservation, traditional management tools, or pure techno-fixes. Concepts such as earth stewardship, biocultural revitalization, and anticipatory governance emerged as essential to sustaining human well-being and enabling the viability of future coral reef ecosystems before, during, and beyond social-ecological shocks. By fostering forward-thinking dialog, these visions and narratives constitute key stepping stones to reimagining desirable relationships between people and coral reefs and speak to both anticipatory and adaptive pathways toward desired change.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 5 of 9
Hepp, C. M., A. Dhiaulhaq, L. M. Adjoffoin, C. Ehowe, S. Assembe-Mvondo and T. B. Bruun (2026). "Perceived ecosystem service bundles across forested landscapes in transition: A case study in southern Cameroon." Ambio 55(2), 415–432. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13280-025-02228-3
Abstract: There is limited understanding of how agrarian communities and Indigenous Peoples perceive and value ecosystem services (ESs) across different land uses. We take a socio-cultural approach using ranking exercises and interviews to assess how communities living around a national park in Southern Cameroon perceive ESs and associated bundles (ESBs) of forest and agricultural land uses. Results show ethnicity, livelihood strategy and geographic location influence how communities value and perceive ESs and the ESBs supplied by their landscape. The shift from forest to agriculture involves a trade-off in ESs, where timber and non-timber forest products are replaced by crop provisioning and the diversity of ESBs is reduced. Furthermore, the restricted access to forests leads to a loss of important ESs which alternative food- and income-generating activities cannot substitute. We emphasize the need for local populations to be actively engaged in resource management and development strategies with their perceptions and needs acknowledged.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 6 of 9
Mahood, S., M. Meyerhoff, C. Poole, C. Griffioen and R. Tizard (2025). "Ex-situ management of Cambodia's birds: An assessment of priorities." Cambodian Journal of Natural History 2025(2), 158–175. https://rupp.edu.kh/cjnh/journal.php
Abstract: A rapid fi rst-cut priority assessment of Cambodia’s bird species identifi ed fi ve high-priority species for which ex-situ management is a critical component of plans to prevent their global extinction. The ex-situ management of three of these high-priority species (Bengal fl orican Houbaropsis bengalensis, giant ibis Thaumatibis gigantea & white-shouldered ibis Pseudibis davisoni) has already begun at the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB). For the two remaining high-priority species (white-winged duck Asarcornis scutulata & masked fi nfoot Heliopais personatus), ex-situ management activities have yet to begin. If such activities are not pursued in a timely manner, there is a signifi cantly higher chance that these species will go extinct. A further fi ve species (orange-necked partridge Arborophila davidi, coralbilled ground-cuckoo Carpococcyx renauldi, greater adjutant Leptoptilos dubius, milky stork Mycteria cinerea & whiterumped pygmy-falcon Neohierax insignis) were identifi ed as medium-priority, with ex-situ management activities for greater adjutant having already begun at the ACCB. The other medium-priority species should be monitored and reassessed on a regular basis so that ex-situ management can be initiated if deemed necessary.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 7 of 9
Musmeci, L., A. Gatto, N. Lisnizer, L. Pozzi, J. Lancelotti, P. Dell’ Arciprete and P. Yorio (2026). "Water levels and Chilean flamingo breeding in a semi-natural wetland system in arid Patagonia, Argentina." Wetlands 46(1), e7. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13157-025-02019-2
Abstract: Urban and peri-urban wastewater treatment systems are increasingly playing a conservation role for waterbirds. Chilean Flamingos (Phoenicopterus chilensis) natural breeding sites are few and all of them threatened by human activities. We present baseline data on an unreported breeding site for Chilean Flamingos, El Salitral, a semi-natural wetland located near two cities in northeastern Patagonia, Argentina. This wetland receives surplus water from a wastewater treatment system. We assessed Chilean Flamingo numbers, colony size and location, and breeding output in relation to wetland water levels based on monthly visits from September to March from 2016 to 2022, and using drone photographs and satellite images. Chilean Flamingos bred at El Salitral in all years, except in 2019. Colony size varied between 1,499 and 5,915 nests, and breeding output between 0.16 and 0.44 chicks per nest. Two different nesting scenarios were identified depending on the water level of the wetland. While a central islet emerged at low levels, only a few islets very close to the wetland margin were available at high levels, increasing flamingo vulnerability to predation and disturbance. Water level influenced the location of the colony and was correlated with the number of breeding pairs, but not with flamingo numbers during the pre-laying stage nor breeding output. We discuss the main threats faced by Chilean Flamingos at this semi-natural wetland in relation to water levels, nesting scenarios and flamingo vulnerability, and provide recommendations to improve their conservation. Effective management of water level should be integrated in future conservation plans for Chilean Flamingos at El Salitral.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 8 of 9
Rajiv, N. V., V. Sankararaman and V. Ramachandran (2025). "Surviving the patchwork: Habitat preferences of a threatened amphibian in a fragmented tropical landscape." Ecology and Evolution 15(12), e72785. https://doi.org/10.1002/ece3.72785
Abstract: Tropical freshwater ecosystems are severely threatened, endangering evolutionarily distinct and globally endangered species the most. Understanding the habitat preferences of these vulnerable species is crucial for effective conservation. This study investigated the habitat associations of Micrixalus kottigeharensis, an evolutionarily distinct and globally endangered frog, within a mixed-use landscape in the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot. We surveyed 67 stream segments across 2500 ha, recording species count and habitat variables, and analysed these relationships using a Generalised linear mixed modelling framework. Our findings showed that stream hydrology, microclimate and land-use together influenced the habitat preferred by M. kottigeharensis. They preferred streams with a greater percentage of emergent substrate and dense canopy cover, emphasising the importance of structurally complex habitats with healthy riparian vegetation. Stream morphology was also an important characteristic, as they preferred riffles and braided channels over other stream types. Furthermore, in the landscape context, they were more abundant in grasslands and forests compared to intensively managed plantations. We also note that their peak activity was observed during the post-monsoon season. These results highlight the critical role of specific habitats in determining the distribution of M. kottigeharensis. Additionally, they provide valuable insights, especially for landowners and managers of agroforests, for targeted habitat management and restoration strategies such as maintaining the natural stream flow, prevention of stream channelisation and mining, and nurturing riparian buffers, aimed at conserving this endangered species.
Peer-Reviewed Literature Citation 9 of 9
Reaser, J. K. and S. Lieberman (In Press). "Pandemic Agreement implementation agenda for international wildlife trade." The Lancet Planetary Health, e101417. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lanplh.2025.101417
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