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Loveridge AJ, Sousa LL, Cushman S, Kaszta Ż, Macdonald DW. Where have all the lions gone? Establishing realistic baselines to assess decline and recovery of African lions. DIVERS DISTRIB 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/ddi.13637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J. Loveridge
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Recanati‐Kaplan Centre, Department of Zoology University of Oxford Oxford UK
| | - Lara L. Sousa
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Recanati‐Kaplan Centre, Department of Zoology University of Oxford Oxford UK
| | - Samuel Cushman
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Recanati‐Kaplan Centre, Department of Zoology University of Oxford Oxford UK
- US Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station Flagstaff Arizona USA
| | - Żaneta Kaszta
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Recanati‐Kaplan Centre, Department of Zoology University of Oxford Oxford UK
| | - David W. Macdonald
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Recanati‐Kaplan Centre, Department of Zoology University of Oxford Oxford UK
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Becker MS, Almeida J, Begg C, Bertola L, Breitenmoser C, Breitenmoser U, Coals P, Funston P, Gaylard A, Groom R, Henschel P, Ikanda D, Jorge A, Kruger J, Lindsey P, Maimbo H, Mandisodza-Chikerema R, Maude G, Mbizah M, Miller SM, Mudongo E, Mwape H, Mweetwa T, Naude V, Nyirenda VR, Parker A, Parker D, Reid C, Robson A, Sayer E, Selier SAJ, Sichande M, Simukonda C, Uiseb K, Williams VL, Zimba D, Hunter L. Guidelines for evaluating the conservation value of African lion (Panthera leo) translocations. FRONTIERS IN CONSERVATION SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fcosc.2022.963961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As the top predator in African ecosystems, lions have lost more than 90% of their historical range, and few countries possess strong evidence for stable populations. Translocations (broadly defined here as the capture and movement of lions for various management purposes) have become an increasingly popular action for this species, but the wide array of lion translocation rationales and subsequent conservation challenges stemming from poorly conceived or unsuitable translocations warrants additional standardized evaluation and guidance. At their best, translocations fill a key role in comprehensive strategies aimed at addressing the threats facing lions and fostering the recovery of wild populations in their historic range. At their worst, translocations can distract from addressing the major threats to wild populations and habitats, divert scarce funding from more valuable conservation actions, exacerbate conflict with humans in recipient sites, disrupt local lion demography, and undermine the genetic integrity of wild lion populations in both source and recipient sites. In the interest of developing best practice guidelines for deciding when and how to conduct lion translocations, we discuss factors to consider when determining whether a translocation is of conservation value, introduce a value assessment for translocations, and provide a decision matrix to assist practitioners in improving the positive and reducing the negative outcomes of lion translocation.
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Whole-genome resequencing of Chinese pangolins reveals a population structure and provides insights into their conservation. Commun Biol 2022; 5:821. [PMID: 36008681 PMCID: PMC9411537 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03757-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Poaching and trafficking have a substantial negative impact on the population growth and range expansion of the Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla). However, recently reported activities of Chinese pangolins in several sites of Guangdong province in China indicate a promising sign for the recovery of this threatened species. Here, we re-sequence genomes of 15 individuals and perform comprehensive population genomics analyses with previously published 22 individuals. These Chinese pangolins are found to be divided into three distinct populations. Multiple lines of evidence indicate the existence of a newly discovered population (CPA) comprises entirely of individuals from Guangdong province. The other two populations (CPB and CPC) have previously been documented. The genetic differentiation of the CPA and CPC is extremely large (FST = 0.541), which is larger than many subspecies-level differentiations. Even for the closer CPA and CPB, their differentiation (FST = 0.101) is still comparable with the population-level differentiation of many endangered species. Further analysis reveals that the CPA and CPB populations separate 2.5–4.0 thousand years ago (kya), and on the other hand, CPA and CPC diverge around 25–40 kya. The CPA population harbors more runs of homozygosity (ROHs) than the CPB and CPC populations, indicating that inbreeding is more prevalent in the CPA population. Although the CPC population has less mutational load than CPA and CPB populations, we predict that several Loss of Function (LoF) mutations will be translocated into the CPA or CPB populations by using the CPC as a donor population for genetic rescue. Our findings imply that the conservation of Chinese pangolins is challenging, and implementing genetic rescue among the three groups should be done with extreme caution. Whole-genome resequencing of Chinese pangolins reveals a new population CPA that is genetically distinct from and harbor more homozygosity than CPB and CPC populations, indicating prevalence in inbreeding and implying challenges in conservation.
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Oxytocin promotes social proximity and decreases vigilance in groups of African lions. iScience 2022; 25:104049. [PMID: 35496998 PMCID: PMC9042884 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin modulates mammalian social behavior; however, behavioral responses to intranasal oxytocin can vary across species and contexts. The complexity of social interactions increases with group dynamics, and the impacts of oxytocin on both within- and between-group contexts are unknown. We tested the effects of intranasal administration of oxytocin on social and non-social behaviors within in-group and out-group contexts in African lions. We hypothesized that, post intranasal oxytocin administration, lions would be in closer proximity with fellow group members, whereas out-group stimuli could either produce a heightened vigilance response or an attenuated one. Compared to control trials, post oxytocin administration, lions increased their time spent in close proximity (reducing their distance to the nearest neighbor) and decreased vigilance toward out-group intruders (reducing their vocalizations following a roar-playback). These results not only have important implications for understanding the evolution of social circuitry but may also have practical applications for conservation efforts. We administered oxytocin to groups of African lions Relative to control conditions, oxytocin administration enhanced social proximity Oxytocin administration decreased vigilance (roars following roar playback)
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Evers EEM, Pretorius ME, Venter JA, Honiball TL, Keith M, Mgqatsa N, Somers MJ. Varying degrees of spatio-temporal partitioning among large carnivores in a fenced reserve, South Africa. WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1071/wr21045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Bertola LD, Miller SM, Williams VL, Naude VN, Coals P, Dures SG, Henschel P, Chege M, Sogbohossou EA, Ndiaye A, Kiki M, Gaylard A, Ikanda DK, Becker MS, Lindsey P. Genetic guidelines for translocations: Maintaining intraspecific diversity in the lion ( Panthera leo). Evol Appl 2022; 15:22-39. [PMID: 35126646 PMCID: PMC8792481 DOI: 10.1111/eva.13318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Conservation translocations have become an important management tool, particularly for large wildlife species such as the lion (Panthera leo). When planning translocations, the genetic background of populations needs to be taken into account; failure to do so risks disrupting existing patterns of genetic variation, ultimately leading to genetic homogenization, and thereby reducing resilience and adaptability of the species. We urge wildlife managers to include knowledge of the genetic background of source/target populations, as well as species-wide patterns, in any management intervention. We present a hierarchical decision-making tool in which we list 132 lion populations/lion conservation units and provide information on genetic assignment, uncertainty and suitability for translocation for each source/target combination. By including four levels of suitability, from 'first choice' to 'no option', we provide managers with a range of options. To illustrate the extent of international trade of lions, and the potential disruption of natural patterns of intraspecific diversity, we mined the CITES Trade Database for estimated trade quantities of live individuals imported into lion range states during the past 4 decades. We identified 1056 recorded individuals with a potential risk of interbreeding with wild lions, 772 being captive-sourced. Scoring each of the records with our decision-making tool illustrates that only 7% of the translocated individuals were 'first choice' and 73% were 'no option'. We acknowledge that other, nongenetic factors are important in the decision-making process, and hence a pragmatic approach is needed. A framework in which source/target populations are scored based on suitability is not only relevant to lion, but also to other species of wildlife that are frequently translocated. We hope that the presented overview supports managers to include genetics in future management decisions and contributes towards conservation of the lion in its full diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura D. Bertola
- Department of BiologyUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
- City College of New YorkNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Susan M. Miller
- FitzPatrick Institute of African OrnithologyDSI‐NRF Centre of ExcellenceUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Institute for Communities and Wildlife in AfricaUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Vivienne L. Williams
- School of Animal, Plant and Environmental SciencesUniversity of the WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Vincent N. Naude
- Institute for Communities and Wildlife in AfricaUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Peter Coals
- School of Animal, Plant and Environmental SciencesUniversity of the WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
- Wildlife Conservation Research UnitUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | | | | | - Monica Chege
- Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML)Leiden UniversityLeidenThe Netherlands
- Kenya Wildlife ServiceNairobiKenya
| | | | | | - Martial Kiki
- Département de Génie de l’EnvironnementUniversité d’Abomey‐CalaviCotonouBenin
| | - Angela Gaylard
- Conservation Development & Assurance DepartmentAfrican Parks NetworkJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | | | | | - Peter Lindsey
- Department of Zoology and EntomologyMammal Research InstituteUniversity of PretoriaPretoriaSouth Africa
- Environmental Futures Research InstituteGriffith UniversityNathanQueenslandAustralia
- Wildlife Conservation NetworkSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
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Riddell P, Paris MCJ, Joonè CJ, Pageat P, Paris DBBP. Appeasing Pheromones for the Management of Stress and Aggression during Conservation of Wild Canids: Could the Solution Be Right under Our Nose? Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061574. [PMID: 34072227 PMCID: PMC8230031 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Many canid species are declining globally. It is important to conserve these species that often serve as important predators within ecosystems. Continued human expansion and the resulting habitat fragmentation necessitate conservation interventions, such as translocation, artificial pack formation, and captive breeding programs. However, chronic stress often occurs during these actions, and can result in aggression, and the physiological suppression of immunity and reproduction. Limited options are currently available for stress and aggression management in wild canids. Pheromones provide a promising natural alternative for stress management; an appeasing pheromone has been identified for multiple domestic species and may reduce stress and aggression behaviours. Many pheromones are species-specific, and the appeasing pheromone has been found to have slight compositional changes across species. In this review, the benefits of a dog appeasing pheromone and the need to investigate species-specific derivatives to produce more pronounced and beneficial behavioural and physiological modulation in target species as a conservation tool are examined. Abstract Thirty-six species of canid exist globally, two are classified as critically endangered, three as endangered, and five as near threatened. Human expansion and the coinciding habitat fragmentation necessitate conservation interventions to mitigate concurrent population deterioration. The current conservation management of wild canids includes animal translocation and artificial pack formation. These actions often cause chronic stress, leading to increased aggression and the suppression of the immune and reproductive systems. Castration and pharmaceutical treatments are currently used to reduce stress and aggression in domestic and captive canids. The undesirable side effects make such treatments inadvisable during conservation management of wild canids. Pheromones are naturally occurring chemical messages that modulate behaviour between conspecifics; as such, they offer a natural alternative for behaviour modification. Animals are able to distinguish between pheromones of closely related species through small compositional differences but are more likely to have greater responses to pheromones from individuals of the same species. Appeasing pheromones have been found to reduce stress- and aggression-related behaviours in domestic species, including dogs. Preliminary evidence suggests that dog appeasing pheromones (DAP) may be effective in wild canids. However, the identification and testing of species-specific derivatives could produce more pronounced and beneficial behavioural and physiological changes in target species. In turn, this could provide a valuable tool to improve the conservation management of many endangered wild canids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia Riddell
- Gamete and Embryology (GAME) Laboratory, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, James Cook Drive, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia;
- Institute for Breeding Rare and Endangered African Mammals (IBREAM), 9 Ainslie Place, Edinburgh EH3 6AT SCT, UK;
- Centre for Tropical Environmental and Sustainability Science, James Cook University, James Cook Drive, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - Monique C. J. Paris
- Institute for Breeding Rare and Endangered African Mammals (IBREAM), 9 Ainslie Place, Edinburgh EH3 6AT SCT, UK;
- Mammal Research Institute, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Carolynne J. Joonè
- Discipline of Veterinary Science, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Solander Drive, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia;
| | - Patrick Pageat
- Institut de Recherche en Sémiochemie et Ethologie Appliquée, 84400 Apt, France;
| | - Damien B. B. P. Paris
- Gamete and Embryology (GAME) Laboratory, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, James Cook Drive, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia;
- Institute for Breeding Rare and Endangered African Mammals (IBREAM), 9 Ainslie Place, Edinburgh EH3 6AT SCT, UK;
- Centre for Tropical Environmental and Sustainability Science, James Cook University, James Cook Drive, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-7-4781-6006
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Morapedi M, Reuben M, Gadimang P, Bradley J, Given W, Reading RP, Ngaka K, Selebatso M, Maude G. Outcomes of Lion, Panthera leo, Translocations to Reduce Conflict with Farmers in Botswana. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.3957/056.051.0006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mmadi Reuben
- Department of Wildlife and National Parks, Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | - James Bradley
- Kalahari Research and Conservation, Hukuntsi, Botswana
| | - William Given
- Kalahari Research and Conservation, Hukuntsi, Botswana
| | | | | | | | - Glyn Maude
- Kalahari Research and Conservation, Hukuntsi, Botswana
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Assumptions about fence permeability influence density estimates for brown hyaenas across South Africa. Sci Rep 2021; 11:620. [PMID: 33436644 PMCID: PMC7804016 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77188-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Wildlife population density estimates provide information on the number of individuals in an area and influence conservation management decisions. Thus, accuracy is vital. A dominant feature in many landscapes globally is fencing, yet the implications of fence permeability on density estimation using spatial capture-recapture modelling are seldom considered. We used camera trap data from 15 fenced reserves across South Africa to examine the density of brown hyaenas (Parahyaena brunnea). We estimated density and modelled its relationship with a suite of covariates when fenced reserve boundaries were assumed to be permeable or impermeable to hyaena movements. The best performing models were those that included only the influence of study site on both hyaena density and detection probability, regardless of assumptions of fence permeability. When fences were considered impermeable, densities ranged from 2.55 to 15.06 animals per 100 km2, but when fences were considered permeable, density estimates were on average 9.52 times lower (from 0.17 to 1.59 animals per 100 km2). Fence permeability should therefore be an essential consideration when estimating density, especially since density results can considerably influence wildlife management decisions. In the absence of strong evidence to the contrary, future studies in fenced areas should assume some degree of permeability in order to avoid overestimating population density.
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Curry CJ, Davis BW, Bertola LD, White PA, Murphy WJ, Derr JN. Spatiotemporal Genetic Diversity of Lions Reveals the Influence of Habitat Fragmentation across Africa. Mol Biol Evol 2021; 38:48-57. [PMID: 32667997 PMCID: PMC8480188 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msaa174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct comparisons between historical and contemporary populations allow for detecting changes in genetic diversity through time and assessment of the impact of habitat fragmentation. Here, we determined the genetic architecture of both historical and modern lions to document changes in genetic diversity over the last century. We surveyed microsatellite and mitochondrial genome variation from 143 high-quality museum specimens of known provenance, allowing us to directly compare this information with data from several recently published nuclear and mitochondrial studies. Our results provide evidence for male-mediated gene flow and recent isolation of local subpopulations, likely due to habitat fragmentation. Nuclear markers showed a significant decrease in genetic diversity from the historical (HE = 0.833) to the modern (HE = 0.796) populations, whereas mitochondrial genetic diversity was maintained (Hd = 0.98 for both). Although the historical population appears to have been panmictic based on nDNA data, hierarchical structure analysis identified four tiers of genetic structure in modern populations and was able to detect most sampling locations. Mitogenome analyses identified four clusters: Southern, Mixed, Eastern, and Western and were consistent between modern and historically sampled haplotypes. Within the last century, habitat fragmentation caused lion subpopulations to become more geographically isolated as human expansion changed the African landscape. This resulted in an increase in fine-scale nuclear genetic structure and loss of genetic diversity as lion subpopulations became more differentiated, whereas mitochondrial structure and diversity were maintained over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin J Curry
- Interdisciplinary Program in Genetics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
| | - Brian W Davis
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
| | - Laura D Bertola
- Department of Biology, City College of New York, New York, NY
| | - Paula A White
- Center for Tropical Research, Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - William J Murphy
- Interdisciplinary Program in Genetics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
| | - James N Derr
- Interdisciplinary Program in Genetics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
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Ruiz-García M, Arias Vásquez JY, Restrepo H, Cáceres-Martínez CH, Shostell JM. The genetic structure of the spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus; Ursidae, Carnivora) in Colombia by means of mitochondrial and microsatellite markers. J Mammal 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyaa082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractThe spectacled bear (Ursidae: Tremarctos ornatus) is an emblematic umbrella species and one of the top carnivores in the Andean mountains. It is also listed as vulnerable by IUCN and as endangered by CITES. We analyzed the genetic structure of this species in nine geographical regions representing the three Andean Cordilleras in Colombia. We sequenced six mitochondrial genes in 115 spectacled bears; a subset of these specimens (n = 61) were genotyped at seven nuclear microsatellites. We addressed three objectives: 1) determine the genetic diversity and historical demographic changes of the spectacled bear in Colombia; 2) determine phylogeographic patterns of genetic divergence among spectacled bear populations in Colombia; and 3) estimate the levels of gene flow among different regions of Colombia. Our analyses show evidence of high mitochondrial genetic diversity in spectacled bears, both in Colombia as well as in each of the nine regions, most particularly Norte de Santander, Nariño, and Antioquia-Córdoba. In addition, we detected population expansion in Colombia that occurred around 24,000 years ago, followed by a population decrease during the last 7,000 years, and a sudden expansion in the last 300 years. Phylogenetic analyses showed few well-supported clades, with some haplotypes detected in all the departments and Colombian Andean Cordilleras, and other haplotypes restricted to certain geographical areas (Antioquia, Norte de Santander, Cundinamarca, and Nariño). We detected significant genetic heterogeneity among some departments and among the three Colombian Andean Cordilleras for both mitochondrial and nuclear genes. Nevertheless, the moderate levels of gene flow estimated from FST statistics suggest that geographical barriers have not been definitive obstacles to the dispersion of the spectacled bear throughout Colombia. Despite these gene flow estimates, significant spatial autocorrelation was detected for spectacled bear in Colombia, where two kinds of spatial patterns were discovered: genetic patches of 144 km of diameter, and isolation by distance among bears separated from 578 to 800 km. The two most northern spectacled bear populations of Colombia (Norte de Santander and Antioquia) also were the two most differentiated. Their distinctiveness may qualify them as distinct Management Units (MUs) in the context of conservation policies for the spectacled bear in Colombia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Ruiz-García
- Laboratorio de Genética de Poblaciones Molecular-Biología Evolutiva, Unidad de Genética, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Jessica Yanina Arias Vásquez
- Laboratorio de Genética de Poblaciones Molecular-Biología Evolutiva, Unidad de Genética, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | | | - Carlos Herney Cáceres-Martínez
- Grupo de Investigación en Ecología y Conservación de Fauna Silvestre, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, sede Medellín, Colombia
| | - Joseph Mark Shostell
- Math, Science and Technology Department, University of Minnesota Crookston, Crookston, MN, USA
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Cornhill KL, Kerley GIH. Cheetah behaviour at scent‐marking sites indicates differential use by sex and social rank. Ethology 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/eth.13071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kristina L. Cornhill
- Department of Zoology Centre for African Conservation Ecology Nelson Mandela University Port Elizabeth South Africa
| | - Graham I. H. Kerley
- Department of Zoology Centre for African Conservation Ecology Nelson Mandela University Port Elizabeth South Africa
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13
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Elliot NB, Bett A, Chege M, Sankan K, Souza N, Kariuki L, Broekhuis F, Omondi P, Ngene S, Gopalaswamy AM. The importance of reliable monitoring methods for the management of small, isolated populations. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas B. Elliot
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of ZoologyUniversity of Oxford, Recanati‐Kaplan Centre Tubney House, Abingdon Road Tubney Oxfordshire OX13 5QL UK
- Kenya Wildlife Trust P.O. Box 86‐00502 Karen Nairobi Kenya
| | - Alice Bett
- Kenya Wildlife Service Box 40241‐0100 Nairobi Kenya
| | - Monica Chege
- Kenya Wildlife Service Box 40241‐0100 Nairobi Kenya
| | - Kasaine Sankan
- Kenya Wildlife Trust P.O. Box 86‐00502 Karen Nairobi Kenya
| | - Nadia Souza
- Lion Guardians P.O. Box 15550‐00509, Langata Nairobi Kenya
| | | | - Femke Broekhuis
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of ZoologyUniversity of Oxford, Recanati‐Kaplan Centre Tubney House, Abingdon Road Tubney Oxfordshire OX13 5QL UK
| | | | | | - Arjun M. Gopalaswamy
- Statistics and Mathematics UnitIndian Statistical Institute—Bangalore Centre Bengaluru 560059 India
- Wildlife Conservation SocietyGlobal Conservation Programs 2300, Southern Boulevard Bronx New York 10460 USA
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14
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Corridors of tolerance through human-dominated landscapes facilitate dispersal and connectivity between populations of African lions Panthera leo. ORYX 2020. [DOI: 10.1017/s0030605319000656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractGlobally, little is known about the dispersal abilities of carnivores, their survival in non-protected areas, and the connectivity between protected and non-protected populations. More than a decade of sighting data for 496 known African lions Panthera leo, with 189 individuals engaging in dispersing activities plus an exchange of cross-site information, has provided unique insight into connectivity and survival in unprotected and protected areas in Kenya. In particular, three individuals, across two generations residing solely in unprotected landscapes, demonstrated connectivity between three protected areas that, to our knowledge, have not previously been recognized as harbouring connected populations. These observations suggest that unprotected areas and the human communities that reside in them may successfully create corridors of tolerance that facilitate connectivity and the long-term persistence of lion populations, both within and outside protected areas.
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Armstrong EE, Taylor RW, Miller DE, Kaelin CB, Barsh GS, Hadly EA, Petrov D. Long live the king: chromosome-level assembly of the lion (Panthera leo) using linked-read, Hi-C, and long-read data. BMC Biol 2020; 18:3. [PMID: 31915011 PMCID: PMC6950864 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-019-0734-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The lion (Panthera leo) is one of the most popular and iconic feline species on the planet, yet in spite of its popularity, the last century has seen massive declines for lion populations worldwide. Genomic resources for endangered species represent an important way forward for the field of conservation, enabling high-resolution studies of demography, disease, and population dynamics. Here, we present a chromosome-level assembly from a captive African lion from the Exotic Feline Rescue Center (Center Point, IN) as a resource for current and subsequent genetic work of the sole social species of the Panthera clade. RESULTS Our assembly is composed of 10x Genomics Chromium data, Dovetail Hi-C, and Oxford Nanopore long-read data. Synteny is highly conserved between the lion, other Panthera genomes, and the domestic cat. We find variability in the length of runs of homozygosity across lion genomes, indicating contrasting histories of recent and possibly intense inbreeding and bottleneck events. Demographic analyses reveal similar ancient histories across all individuals during the Pleistocene except the Asiatic lion, which shows a more rapid decline in population size. We show a substantial influence on the reference genome choice in the inference of demographic history and heterozygosity. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate that the choice of reference genome is important when comparing heterozygosity estimates across species and those inferred from different references should not be compared to each other. In addition, estimates of heterozygosity or the amount or length of runs of homozygosity should not be taken as reflective of a species, as these can differ substantially among individuals. This high-quality genome will greatly aid in the continuing research and conservation efforts for the lion, which is rapidly moving towards becoming a species in danger of extinction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ryan W Taylor
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- End2EndGenomics, LLC, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Danny E Miller
- Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's Hospital and The University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Christopher B Kaelin
- HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, AL, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Gregory S Barsh
- HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, AL, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Dmitri Petrov
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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Leopard Density Estimation within an Enclosed Reserve, Namibia Using Spatially Explicit Capture-Recapture Models. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9100724. [PMID: 31557967 PMCID: PMC6826368 DOI: 10.3390/ani9100724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Due to continuous levels of human–wildlife conflict, habitat loss and fragmentation, the establishment of protected and enclosed reserves constitute a solid foundation for the long-term survival of threatened species. Because species living in enclosed systems often behave differently compared to their free-roaming counterparts, research is forming an important and essential tool to understand their ecology and behavior. For a population to be sustainable in a closed, fenced system, effective conservation and management strategies need to be developed on the basis of robust population estimates. We found that the study area, a protected nature reserve, is harbouring the highest leopard density in Namibia to date, highlighting that small, enclosed reserves can play a vital role for the survival of threatened species in the future. Abstract The establishment of enclosed conservation areas are claimed to be the driving force for the long-term survival of wildlife populations. Whilst fencing provides an important tool in conservation, it simultaneously represents a controversial matter as it stops natural migration processes, which could ultimately lead to inbreeding, a decline in genetic diversity and local extinction if not managed correctly. Thus, wildlife residing in enclosed reserves requires effective conservation and management strategies, which are strongly reliant on robust population estimates. Here, we used camera traps combined with the relatively new class of spatially explicit capture-recaptured models (SECR) to produce the first reliable leopard population estimate for an enclosed reserve in Namibia. Leopard density was estimated at 14.51 leopards/100 km2, the highest recorded density in Namibia to date. A combination of high prey abundance, the absence of human persecution and a lack of top-down control are believed to be the main drivers of the recorded high leopard population. Our results add to the growing body of literature which suggests enclosed reserves have the potential to harbour high densities and highlight the importance of such reserves for the survival of threatened species in the future.
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Curry CJ, White PA, Derr JN. Genetic analysis of African lions (Panthera leo) in Zambia support movement across anthropogenic and geographical barriers. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0217179. [PMID: 31150429 PMCID: PMC6544237 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0217179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Luangwa Valley in eastern Zambia is a transverse offshoot of the Great Rift Valley system. This region appears to have an isolating effect as evidenced by suspected endemic subspecies, such as the Cookson's wildebeest and Thornicroft's giraffe. Recent mitochondrial DNA studies demonstrated that African lions in Zambia consist of two highly diverse eastern and western sub-populations. Herein, we report nuclear and mitochondrial DNA results from 409 lions that support this population substructure across Zambia but proposes only partial isolation of the Luangwa Valley with more movement between the populations than previously thought. Population assignment analysis identifies two populations with little evidence of admixture assigning lions to either the eastern or western sub-populations. A high occurrence of private alleles and clear evidence for a Wahlund effect further justify the presence of a highly structured population. But, while mitochondrial DNA analysis still shows little to no matrilineal gene flow (FST = 0.53) between sub-populations, microsatellite analysis suggests there is gene flow (FST = 0.04) with low but significant isolation-by-distance and an average of 6 migrants per generation. Evidence of isolation-by-distance is also found in factorial correspondence analysis with the Lower Zambezi National Park and eastern corridor clusters overlapping isolated clusters of the Luangwa Valley and western sub-population. From this evidence, the Luangwa Valley appears separated from the western sub-population with some dispersal through the southern regions of the eastern sub-population. Both the eastern and western sub-populations have high heterozygosity (0.68 and 0.69, respectively) and genetic diversity (0.47 and 0.50, respectively) values, indicative of genetically healthy populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin J. Curry
- Interdisciplinary Program of Genetics, Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Paula A. White
- Center for Tropical Research, Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - James N. Derr
- Interdisciplinary Program of Genetics, Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Sobratee N, Slotow R. A Critical Review of Lion Research in South Africa: The Impact of Researcher Perspective, Research Mode, and Power Structures on Outcome Bias and Implementation Gaps. Front Ecol Evol 2019. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2019.00081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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21
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Time Series Analysis of MODIS-Derived NDVI for the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, South Africa: Impact of Recent Intense Drought. CLIMATE 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/cli6040095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The variability of temperature and precipitation influenced by El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is potentially one of key factors contributing to vegetation product in southern Africa. Thus, understanding large-scale ocean–atmospheric phenomena like the ENSO and Indian Ocean Dipole/Dipole Mode Index (DMI) is important. In this study, 16 years (2002–2017) of Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Terra/Aqua 16-day normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), extracted and processed using JavaScript code editor in the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform was used to analyze the vegetation response pattern of the oldest proclaimed nature reserve in Africa, the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HiP) to climatic variability. The MODIS enhanced vegetation index (EVI), burned area index (BAI), and normalized difference infrared index (NDII) were also analyzed. The study used the Modern Retrospective Analysis for the Research Application (MERRA) model monthly mean soil temperature and precipitations. The Global Land Data Assimilation System (GLDAS) evapotranspiration (ET) data were used to investigate the HiP vegetation water stress. The region in the southern part of the HiP which has land cover dominated by savanna experienced the most impact of the strong El Niño. Both the HiP NDVI inter-annual Mann–Kendal trend test and sequential Mann–Kendall (SQ-MK) test indicated a significant downward trend during the El Niño years of 2003 and 2014–2015. The SQ-MK significant trend turning point which was thought to be associated with the 2014–2015 El Niño periods begun in November 2012. The wavelet coherence and coherence phase indicated a positive teleconnection/correlation between soil temperatures, precipitation, soil moisture (NDII), and ET. This was explained by a dominant in-phase relationship between the NDVI and climatic parameters especially at a period band of 8–16 months.
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22
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Tensen L, Groom RJ, Khuzwayo J, Jansen van Vuuren B. The genetic tale of a recovering lion population (Panthera leo) in the Savé Valley region (Zimbabwe): A better understanding of the history and managing the future. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0190369. [PMID: 29415031 PMCID: PMC5802433 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0190369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The rapid decline of the African lion (Panthera leo) has raised conservation concerns. In the Savé Valley Conservancy (SVC), in the Lowveld of Zimbabwe, lions were presumably reduced to approximately 5 to 10 individuals. After ten lions were reintroduced in 2005, the population has recovered to over 200 lions in 2016. Although the increase of lions in the SVC seems promising, a question remains whether the population is genetically viable, considering their small founding population. In this study, we document the genetic diversity in the SVC lion population using both mitochondrial and nuclear genetic markers, and compare our results to literature from other lion populations across Africa. We also tested whether genetic diversity is spatially structured between lion populations residing on several reserves in the Lowveld of Zimbabwe. A total of 42 lions were genotyped successfully for 11 microsatellite loci. We confirmed that the loss of allelic richness (probably resulting from genetic drift and small number of founders) has resulted in low genetic diversity and inbreeding. The SVC lion population was also found to be genetically differentiated from surrounding population, as a result of genetic drift and restricted natural dispersal due to anthropogenic barriers. From a conservation perspective, it is important to avoid further loss of genetic variability in the SVC lion population and maintain evolutionary potential required for future survival. Genetic restoration through the introduction of unrelated individuals is recommended, as this will increase genetic heterozygosity and improve survival and reproductive fitness in populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Tensen
- Centre for Ecological Genomics and Wildlife Conservation, Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Rosemary J. Groom
- Centre for Ecological Genomics and Wildlife Conservation, Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
- African Wildlife Conservation Fund, Chishakwe Ranch, Savé Valley Conservancy, Zimbabwe
| | - Joy Khuzwayo
- Centre for Ecological Genomics and Wildlife Conservation, Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Bettine Jansen van Vuuren
- Centre for Ecological Genomics and Wildlife Conservation, Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Miller MP, Haig SM, Ballou JD, Steel EA. Estimating Inbreeding Rates in Natural Populations: Addressing the Problem of Incomplete Pedigrees. J Hered 2017; 108:574-582. [PMID: 28398480 DOI: 10.1093/jhered/esx032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding and estimating inbreeding is essential for managing threatened and endangered wildlife populations. However, determination of inbreeding rates in natural populations is confounded by incomplete parentage information. We present an approach for quantifying inbreeding rates for populations with incomplete parentage information. The approach exploits knowledge of pedigree configurations that lead to inbreeding coefficients of F = 0.25 and F = 0.125, allowing for quantification of Pr(I|k): the probability of observing pedigree I given the fraction of known parents (k). We developed analytical expressions under simplifying assumptions that define properties and behavior of inbreeding rate estimators for varying values of k. We demonstrated that inbreeding is overestimated if Pr(I|k) is not taken into consideration and that bias is primarily influenced by k. By contrast, our new estimator, incorporating Pr(I|k), is unbiased over a wide range of values of k that may be observed in empirical studies. Stochastic computer simulations that allowed complex inter- and intragenerational inbreeding produced similar results. We illustrate the effects that accounting for Pr(I|k) can have in empirical data by revisiting published analyses of Arabian oryx (Oryx leucoryx) and Red deer (Cervus elaphus). Our results demonstrate that incomplete pedigrees are not barriers for quantifying inbreeding in wild populations. Application of our approach will permit a better understanding of the role that inbreeding plays in the dynamics of populations of threatened and endangered species and may help refine our understanding of inbreeding avoidance mechanisms in the wild.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark P Miller
- US Geological Survey Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 3200 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR 97331; Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA; and USDA Forest Service Pacific Northwest Research Station, Seattle, WA
| | - Susan M Haig
- US Geological Survey Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 3200 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR 97331; Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA; and USDA Forest Service Pacific Northwest Research Station, Seattle, WA
| | - Jonathan D Ballou
- US Geological Survey Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 3200 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR 97331; Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA; and USDA Forest Service Pacific Northwest Research Station, Seattle, WA
| | - E Ashley Steel
- US Geological Survey Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 3200 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR 97331; Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA; and USDA Forest Service Pacific Northwest Research Station, Seattle, WA
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Trinkel M, Fleischmann PH, Slotow R. Electrifying the fence or living with consequences? Problem animal control threatens the long-term viability of a free-ranging lion population. J Zool (1987) 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. Trinkel
- School of Life Sciences; University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville; Durban South Africa
| | | | - R. Slotow
- School of Life Sciences; University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville; Durban South Africa
- Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment; Faculty of Life Sciences; University College London; London UK
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Dolrenry S, Hazzah L, Frank LG. Conservation and monitoring of a persecuted African lion population by Maasai warriors. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2016; 30:467-475. [PMID: 27111059 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.12703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2015] [Revised: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Although Africa has many threatened species and biological hot spots, there are few citizen science schemes, particularly in rural communities, and there has been limited evaluation of existing programs. We engaged traditional Maasai warriors (pastoralist men aged 15 to 35) in community-based conservation and demographic monitoring of a persecuted African lion (Panthera leo) population. Through direct engagement, we investigated whether a citizen science approach employing local warriors, who had no formal education, could produce reliable data on the demographics, predation, and movements of a species with which their communities have been in conflict for generations. Warriors were given benefits such as literacy training and skill enhancement and engaged in the monitoring of the lions. The trained warriors reported on lion sign across an area nearly 4000 km(2) . Scientists worked together with the warriors to verify their reports and gather observations on the lion population. Using the verified reports and collected observations, we examined our scientific knowledge relative to the lion population preceding and during the citizen science program. Our observations showed that data quality and quantity improved with the involvement and training of the participants. Furthermore, because they engaged in conservation and gained personal benefits, the participants came to appreciate a species that was traditionally their foe. We believe engaging other local communities in biodiversity conservation and monitoring may be an effective conservation approach in rural Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Dolrenry
- Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, 53706-1491, U.S.A
- Living with Lions, Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, University of California Berkeley, CA, 94720, U.S.A
| | - Leela Hazzah
- Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, 53706-1491, U.S.A
- Living with Lions, Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, University of California Berkeley, CA, 94720, U.S.A
| | - Laurence G Frank
- Living with Lions, Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, University of California Berkeley, CA, 94720, U.S.A
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Fenced and Fragmented: Conservation Value of Managed Metapopulations. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0144605. [PMID: 26699333 PMCID: PMC4689424 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0144605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Accepted: 11/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Population fragmentation is threatening biodiversity worldwide. Species that once roamed vast areas are increasingly being conserved in small, isolated areas. Modern management approaches must adapt to ensure the continued survival and conservation value of these populations. In South Africa, a managed metapopulation approach has been adopted for several large carnivore species, all protected in isolated, relatively small, reserves that are fenced. As far as possible these approaches are based on natural metapopulation structures. In this network, over the past 25 years, African lions (Panthera leo) were reintroduced into 44 fenced reserves with little attention given to maintaining genetic diversity. To examine the situation, we investigated the current genetic provenance and diversity of these lions. We found that overall genetic diversity was similar to that in a large national park, and included a mixture of four different southern African evolutionarily significant units (ESUs). This mixing of ESUs, while not ideal, provides a unique opportunity to study the impact of mixing ESUs over the long term. We propose a strategic managed metapopulation plan to ensure the maintenance of genetic diversity and improve the long-term conservation value of these lions. This managed metapopulation approach could be applied to other species under similar ecological constraints around the globe.
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27
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Curry CJ, White PA, Derr JN. Mitochondrial Haplotype Diversity in Zambian Lions: Bridging a Gap in the Biogeography of an Iconic Species. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0143827. [PMID: 26674533 PMCID: PMC4686026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0143827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 11/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Analysis of DNA sequence diversity at the 12S to 16S mitochondrial genes of 165 African lions (Panthera leo) from five main areas in Zambia has uncovered haplotypes which link Southern Africa with East Africa. Phylogenetic analysis suggests Zambia may serve as a bridge connecting the lion populations in southern Africa to eastern Africa, supporting earlier hypotheses that eastern-southern Africa may represent the evolutionary cradle for the species. Overall gene diversity throughout the Zambian lion population was 0.7319 +/- 0.0174 with eight haplotypes found; three haplotypes previously described and the remaining five novel. The addition of these five novel haplotypes, so far only found within Zambia, nearly doubles the number of haplotypes previously reported for any given geographic location of wild lions. However, based on an AMOVA analysis of these haplotypes, there is little to no matrilineal gene flow (Fst = 0.47) when the eastern and western regions of Zambia are considered as two regional sub-populations. Crossover haplotypes (H9, H11, and Z1) appear in both populations as rare in one but common in the other. This pattern is a possible result of the lion mating system in which predominately males disperse, as all individuals with crossover haplotypes were male. The determination and characterization of lion sub-populations, such as done in this study for Zambia, represent a higher-resolution of knowledge regarding both the genetic health and connectivity of lion populations, which can serve to inform conservation and management of this iconic species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin J. Curry
- Interdisciplinary Program of Genetics, Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States of America
| | - Paula A. White
- Center for Tropical Research, Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - James N. Derr
- Interdisciplinary Program of Genetics, Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States of America
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Weise FJ, Wiesel I, Lemeris J, Vuuren RJV. Evaluation of a Conflict-Related Brown Hyaena Translocation in Central Namibia. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2015. [DOI: 10.3957/056.045.0178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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30
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Kesch MK, Bauer DT, Loveridge AJ. Break on Through to the Other Side: The Effectiveness of Game Fencing to Mitigate Human—Wildlife Conflict. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2015. [DOI: 10.3957/056.045.0109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. Kristina Kesch
- Department of Animal Ecology and Conservation, University of Hamburg, Martin-Luther-King-Platz 3, 20146 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dominik T. Bauer
- Department of Zoology, University of Hohenheim, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Andrew J. Loveridge
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Recanati-Kaplan Centre, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, U.K
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Frankham R. Genetic rescue of small inbred populations: meta-analysis reveals large and consistent benefits of gene flow. Mol Ecol 2015; 24:2610-8. [PMID: 25740414 DOI: 10.1111/mec.13139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 388] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2015] [Revised: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 02/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Many species have fragmented distribution with small isolated populations suffering inbreeding depression and/or reduced ability to evolve. Without gene flow from another population within the species (genetic rescue), these populations are likely to be extirpated. However, there have been only ~ 20 published cases of such outcrossing for conservation purposes, probably a very low proportion of populations that would potentially benefit. As one impediment to genetic rescues is the lack of an overview of the magnitude and consistency of genetic rescue effects in wild species, I carried out a meta-analysis. Outcrossing of inbred populations resulted in beneficial effects in 92.9% of 156 cases screened as having a low risk of outbreeding depression. The median increase in composite fitness (combined fecundity and survival) following outcrossing was 148% in stressful environments and 45% in benign ones. Fitness benefits also increased significantly with maternal ΔF (reduction in inbreeding coefficient due to gene flow) and for naturally outbreeding versus inbreeding species. However, benefits did not differ significantly among invertebrates, vertebrates and plants. Evolutionary potential for fitness characters in inbred populations also benefited from gene flow. There are no scientific impediments to the widespread use of outcrossing to genetically rescue inbred populations of naturally outbreeding species, provided potential crosses have a low risk of outbreeding depression. I provide revised guidelines for the management of genetic rescue attempts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Frankham
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia.,Australian Museum, 6 College St, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia
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Miller SM, Harper CK, Bloomer P, Hofmeyr J, Funston PJ. Evaluation of microsatellite markers for populations studies and forensic identification of African lions (Panthera leo). J Hered 2014; 105:762-72. [PMID: 25151647 DOI: 10.1093/jhered/esu054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The South African lion (Panthera leo) population is highly fragmented. One-third of its wild lions occur in small (<1000 km(2)) reserves. These lions were reintroduced from other areas of the species' historical range. Management practices on these reserves have not prioritized genetic provenance or heterozygosity. These trends potentially constrain the conservation value of these lions. To ensure the best management and long-term survival of these subpopulations as a viable collective population, the provenance and current genetic diversity must be described. Concurrently, poaching of lions to supply a growing market for lion bones in Asia may become a serious conservation challenge in the future. Having a standardized, validated method for matching confiscated lion parts with carcasses will be a key tool in investigating these crimes. We evaluated 28 microsatellites in the African lion using samples from 18 small reserves and 1 captive facility in South Africa, two conservancies in Zimbabwe, and Kruger National and Kgalagadi Transfrontier Parks to determine the loci most suited for population management and forensic genetic applications. Twelve microsatellite loci with a match probability of 1.1×10(-5) between siblings were identified for forensics. A further 10 could be added for population genetics studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan M Miller
- From the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Miller); the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa (Miller and Harper); the Molecular Ecology and Evolution Programme, Department of Genetics, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa (Bloomer); the Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Private Bag X402, Skukuza 1350, South Africa (Hofmeyr); the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Funston); and the Lion Program, Panthera, New York, NY (Funston).
| | - Cindy K Harper
- From the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Miller); the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa (Miller and Harper); the Molecular Ecology and Evolution Programme, Department of Genetics, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa (Bloomer); the Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Private Bag X402, Skukuza 1350, South Africa (Hofmeyr); the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Funston); and the Lion Program, Panthera, New York, NY (Funston)
| | - Paulette Bloomer
- From the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Miller); the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa (Miller and Harper); the Molecular Ecology and Evolution Programme, Department of Genetics, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa (Bloomer); the Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Private Bag X402, Skukuza 1350, South Africa (Hofmeyr); the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Funston); and the Lion Program, Panthera, New York, NY (Funston)
| | - Jennifer Hofmeyr
- From the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Miller); the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa (Miller and Harper); the Molecular Ecology and Evolution Programme, Department of Genetics, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa (Bloomer); the Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Private Bag X402, Skukuza 1350, South Africa (Hofmeyr); the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Funston); and the Lion Program, Panthera, New York, NY (Funston)
| | - Paul J Funston
- From the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Miller); the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa (Miller and Harper); the Molecular Ecology and Evolution Programme, Department of Genetics, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa (Bloomer); the Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Private Bag X402, Skukuza 1350, South Africa (Hofmeyr); the Department of Nature Conservation, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa (Funston); and the Lion Program, Panthera, New York, NY (Funston)
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Kenney J, Allendorf FW, McDougal C, Smith JLD. How much gene flow is needed to avoid inbreeding depression in wild tiger populations? Proc Biol Sci 2014; 281:20133337. [PMID: 24990671 PMCID: PMC4100497 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2013.3337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2013] [Accepted: 06/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The number and size of tiger populations continue to decline owing to habitat loss, habitat fragmentation and poaching of tigers and their prey. As a result, tiger populations have become small and highly structured. Current populations have been isolated since the early 1970s or for approximately seven generations. The objective of this study is to explore how inbreeding may be affecting the persistence of remaining tiger populations and how dispersal, either natural or artificial, may reduce the potentially detrimental effect of inbreeding depression. We developed a tiger simulation model and used published levels of genetic load in mammals to simulate inbreeding depression. Following a 50 year period of population isolation, we introduced one to four dispersing male tigers per generation to explore how gene flow from nearby populations may reduce the negative impact of inbreeding depression. For the smallest populations, even four dispersing male tigers per generation did not increase population viability, and the likelihood of extinction is more than 90% within 30 years. Unless habitat connectivity is restored or animals are artificially introduced in the next 70 years, medium size wild populations are also likely to go extinct, with only four to five of the largest wild tiger populations likely to remain extant in this same period without intervention. To reduce the risk of local extinction, habitat connectivity must be pursued concurrently with efforts to increase population size (e.g. enhance habitat quality, increase habitat availability). It is critical that infrastructure development, dam construction and other similar projects are planned appropriately so that they do not erode the extent or quality of habitat for these populations so that they can truly serve as future source populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Kenney
- Department of Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology, University of Minnesota, St Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Fred W Allendorf
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA
| | - Charles McDougal
- International Trust for Nature Conservation, 3c Gunnersbury Avenue, Ealing Common, London W5 3NH, UK
| | - James L D Smith
- Department of Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology, University of Minnesota, St Paul, MN 55108, USA
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The effect of alternative forms of hunting on the social organization of two small populations of lions Panthera leo in southern Africa. ORYX 2014. [DOI: 10.1017/s0030605313001336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractAfrican lion Panthera leo populations have declined as a result of various anthropogenic factors, and most extant populations are small, which further compromises their persistence. Lions in unfenced areas are more exposed to illegal hunting, snaring and poisoning, and populations in fenced reserves are subject to population control by removal of selected individuals from particular age and sex classes. During 2000–2011 19 lions from the mostly unfenced Northern Tuli Game Reserve in Botswana were shot, snared or poisoned. By contrast, only one lioness was shot outside the fenced Venetia Limpopo Nature Reserve 10 km away, in South Africa, where 29 lions were trophy hunted or culled. We found that the mean population size, sex ratio and litter size were the same for both reserves but population density, pride size and cub survival rate were significantly higher in the fenced reserve. The size of the population in Northern Tuli was constrained by a high rate of indiscriminate anthropogenic mortality, with 94.7% of adult mortality occurring outside the reserve. The different forms of anthropogenic suppression in evidence at the two reserves resulted in different population-level responses, which will ultimately affect population viability. As conservation strategies are attempting to remove fences and establish larger conservation areas, this study indicates how fences can influence population dynamics in areas where human presence threatens large carnivores.
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Pfeifer M, Packer C, Burton AC, Garnett ST, Loveridge AJ, MacNulty D, Platts PJ. In defense of fences. Science 2014; 345:389. [PMID: 25061194 DOI: 10.1126/science.345.6195.389-a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M Pfeifer
- Forest Ecology and Conservation Lab, Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, Ascot, SL5 7PY, UK. York Institute for Tropical Ecosystems, Environment Department, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK.
| | - C Packer
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - A C Burton
- Alberta Innovates Technology Futures, Victoria, BC V8Z 7X8, Canada. Department of Biology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - S T Garnett
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT 0909, Australia
| | - A J Loveridge
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, Oxford University, Oxford, OX13 5QL, UK
| | - D MacNulty
- Department of Wildland Resources, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | - P J Platts
- York Institute for Tropical Ecosystems, Environment Department, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
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Darnell AM, Graf JA, Somers MJ, Slotow R, Szykman Gunther M. Space use of African wild dogs in relation to other large carnivores. PLoS One 2014; 9:e98846. [PMID: 24896638 PMCID: PMC4045926 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0098846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2013] [Accepted: 05/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Interaction among species through competition is a principle process structuring ecological communities, affecting behavior, distribution, and ultimately the population dynamics of species. High competition among large African carnivores, associated with extensive diet overlap, manifests in interactions between subordinate African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) and dominant lions (Panthera leo) and spotted hyenas (Crocuta crocuta). Using locations of large carnivores in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, South Africa, we found different responses from wild dogs to their two main competitors. Wild dogs avoided lions, particularly during denning, through a combination of spatial and temporal avoidance. However, wild dogs did not exhibit spatial or temporal avoidance of spotted hyenas, likely because wild dog pack sizes were large enough to adequately defend their kills. Understanding that larger carnivores affect the movements and space use of other carnivores is important for managing current small and fragmented carnivore populations, especially as reintroductions and translocations are essential tools used for the survival of endangered species, as with African wild dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela M. Darnell
- Department of Wildlife, Humboldt State University, Arcata, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Jan A. Graf
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Michael J. Somers
- Centre for Wildlife Management, Centre for Invasion Biology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Rob Slotow
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Micaela Szykman Gunther
- Department of Wildlife, Humboldt State University, Arcata, California, United States of America
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, Virginia, United States of America
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Miller SM, Funston PJ. Rapid Growth Rates of Lion (Panthera leo) Populations in Small, Fenced Reserves in South Africa: A Management Dilemma. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.3957/056.044.0107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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Ferreira SM, Hofmeyr M. Managing Charismatic Carnivores in Small Areas: Large Felids in South Africa. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.3957/056.044.0102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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Abell J, Kirzinger MWB, Gordon Y, Kirk J, Kokeŝ R, Lynas K, Mandinyenya B, Youldon D. A social network analysis of social cohesion in a constructed pride: implications for ex situ reintroduction of the African lion (Panthera leo). PLoS One 2013; 8:e82541. [PMID: 24376544 PMCID: PMC3869708 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0082541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2013] [Accepted: 11/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal conservation practices include the grouping of captive related and unrelated individuals to form a social structure which is characteristic of that species in the wild. In response to the rapid decline of wild African lion (Panthera leo) populations, an array of conservational strategies have been adopted. Ex situ reintroduction of the African lion requires the construction of socially cohesive pride structures prior to wild release. This pilot study adopted a social network theory approach to quantitatively assess a captive pride's social structure and the relationships between individuals within them. Group composition (who is present in a group) and social interaction data (social licking, greeting, play) was observed and recorded to assess social cohesion within a released semi-wild pride. UCINET and SOCPROG software was utilised to represent and analyse these social networks. Results indicate that the pride is socially cohesive, does not exhibit random associations, and the role of socially influential keystone individuals is important for maintaining social bondedness within a lion pride. These results are potentially informative for the structure of lion prides, in captivity and in the wild, and could have implications for captive and wild-founder reintroductions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackie Abell
- Coventry University, Coventry, United Kingdom
- African Lion & Environmental Research Trust, Livingstone, Zambia
| | | | - Yvonne Gordon
- African Lion & Environmental Research Trust, Antelope Park, Gweru, Zimbabwe
| | - Jacqui Kirk
- African Lion & Environmental Research Trust, Livingstone, Zambia
| | - Rae Kokeŝ
- African Lion & Environmental Research Trust, Livingstone, Zambia
| | - Kirsty Lynas
- African Lion & Environmental Research Trust, Antelope Park, Gweru, Zimbabwe
| | - Bob Mandinyenya
- African Lion & Environmental Research Trust, Antelope Park, Gweru, Zimbabwe
| | - David Youldon
- African Lion & Environmental Research Trust, Livingstone, Zambia
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Miller S, Bissett C, Burger A, Courtenay B, Dickerson T, Druce D, Ferreira S, Funston P, Hofmeyr D, Kilian P, Matthews W, Naylor S, Parker D, Slotow R, Toft M, Zimmermann D. Management of Reintroduced Lions in Small, Fenced Reserves in South Africa: An Assessment and Guidelines. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.3957/056.043.0202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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Di Minin E, Hunter LTB, Balme GA, Smith RJ, Goodman PS, Slotow R. Creating larger and better connected protected areas enhances the persistence of big game species in the maputaland-pondoland-albany biodiversity hotspot. PLoS One 2013; 8:e71788. [PMID: 23977144 PMCID: PMC3743761 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0071788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2012] [Accepted: 07/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The ideal conservation planning approach would enable decision-makers to use population viability analysis to assess the effects of management strategies and threats on all species at the landscape level. However, the lack of high-quality data derived from long-term studies, and uncertainty in model parameters and/or structure, often limit the use of population models to only a few species of conservation concern. We used spatially explicit metapopulation models in conjunction with multi-criteria decision analysis to assess how species-specific threats and management interventions would affect the persistence of African wild dog, black rhino, cheetah, elephant, leopard and lion, under six reserve scenarios, thereby providing the basis for deciding on a best course of conservation action in the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal, which forms the central component of the Maputaland-Pondoland-Albany biodiversity hotspot. Overall, the results suggest that current strategies of managing populations within individual, small, fenced reserves are unlikely to enhance metapopulation persistence should catastrophic events affect populations in the future. Creating larger and better-connected protected areas would ensure that threats can be better mitigated in the future for both African wild dog and leopard, which can disperse naturally, and black rhino, cheetah, elephant, and lion, which are constrained by electric fences but can be managed using translocation. The importance of both size and connectivity should inform endangered megafauna conservation and management, especially in the context of restoration efforts in increasingly human-dominated landscapes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Di Minin
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
- Finnish Centre of Excellence in Metapopulation Biology, Department of Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- * E-mail:
| | - Luke T. B. Hunter
- Panthera, New York, New York, United States of America
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Guy A. Balme
- Panthera, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Robert J. Smith
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | | | - Rob Slotow
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Cristescu B, Bernard RTF, Krause J. Partitioning of space, habitat, and timing of activity by large felids in an enclosed South African system. J ETHOL 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s10164-013-0376-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Ferreira SM, Maruping NT, Schoultz D, Smit TR. Effects of the number of people on efficient capture and sample collection: a lion case study. J S Afr Vet Assoc 2013; 84:E1-7. [PMID: 23718570 DOI: 10.4102/jsava.v84i1.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2012] [Revised: 02/04/2013] [Accepted: 03/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Certain carnivore research projects and approaches depend on successful capture of individuals of interest. The number of people present at a capture site may determine success of a capture. In this study 36 lion capture cases in the Kruger National Park were used to evaluate whether the number of people present at a capture site influenced lion response rates and whether the number of people at a sampling site influenced the time it took to process the collected samples. The analyses suggest that when nine or fewer people were present, lions appeared faster at a call-up locality compared with when there were more than nine people. The number of people, however, did not influence the time it took to process the lions. It is proposed that efficient lion capturing should spatially separate capture and processing sites and minimise the number of people at a capture site.
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Packer C, Loveridge A, Canney S, Caro T, Garnett S, Pfeifer M, Zander K, Swanson A, MacNulty D, Balme G, Bauer H, Begg C, Begg K, Bhalla S, Bissett C, Bodasing T, Brink H, Burger A, Burton A, Clegg B, Dell S, Delsink A, Dickerson T, Dloniak S, Druce D, Frank L, Funston P, Gichohi N, Groom R, Hanekom C, Heath B, Hunter L, DeIongh H, Joubert C, Kasiki S, Kissui B, Knocker W, Leathem B, Lindsey P, Maclennan S, McNutt J, Miller S, Naylor S, Nel P, Ng'weno C, Nicholls K, Ogutu J, Okot-Omoya E, Patterson B, Plumptre A, Salerno J, Skinner K, Slotow R, Sogbohossou E, Stratford K, Winterbach C, Winterbach H, Polasky S. Conserving large carnivores: dollars and fence. Ecol Lett 2013; 16:635-41. [PMID: 23461543 DOI: 10.1111/ele.12091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2012] [Revised: 11/19/2012] [Accepted: 01/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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45
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Ferreira SM, Govender D, Herbst M. Conservation implications of Kalahari lion population dynamics. Afr J Ecol 2012. [DOI: 10.1111/aje.12003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marna Herbst
- Scientific Services; SANParks; Phalaborwa; South Africa
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46
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Walking with lions: why there is no role for captive-origin lions Panthera leo in species restoration. ORYX 2012. [DOI: 10.1017/s0030605312000695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractDespite formidable challenges and few successes in reintroducing large cats from captivity to the wild, the release of captives has widespread support from the general public and local governments, and continues to occur ad hoc. Commercial so-called lion Panthera leo encounter operations in Africa exemplify the issue, in which the captive breeding of the lion is linked to claims of reintroduction and broader conservation outcomes. In this article we assess the capacity of such programmes to contribute to in situ lion conservation. By highlighting the availability of wild founders, the unsuitability of captive lions for release and the evidence-based success of wild–wild lion translocations, we show that captive-origin lions have no role in species restoration. We also argue that approaches to reintroduction exemplified by the lion encounter industry do not address the reasons for the decline of lions in situ, nor do they represent a model that can be widely applied to restoration of threatened felids elsewhere.
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47
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Changes of population trends and mortality patterns in response to the reintroduction of large predators: The case study of African ungulates. ACTA OECOLOGICA 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.actao.2012.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Koláčková K, Hejcmanová P, Antonínová M, Brandl P. Population management as a tool in the recovery of the critically endangered Western Derby eland Taurotragus derbianus in Senegal, Africa. WILDLIFE BIOLOGY 2011. [DOI: 10.2981/10-019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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Abstract
Human-tiger (Panthera tigris Linnaeus, 1758) conflicts (HTC), manifested primarily as attacks on people and domestic animals, exacerbate at least 2 major threats to tigers: (i) conflicts often result in mortality or removal of tigers from the wild; and (ii) they result in negative attitudes towards tigers by local people, thereby reducing support for tiger conservation. Although HTC has decreased over the past century, it will likely increase if current and proposed conservation initiatives to double tiger populations are successful. Increased HTC could undermine successful conservation initiatives if proactive steps are not taken to reduce HTC. The present paper provides a review of the impacts of HTC and the measures taken to reduce it in ways that reduce negative impacts on both humans and tigers, and stresses the need for development and implementation of comprehensive plans to reduce HTC.
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50
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Lagendijk G, Page BR, Slotow R. Short-term Effects of Single Species Browsing Release by Different-sized Herbivores on Sand Forest Vegetation Community, South Africa. Biotropica 2011. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1744-7429.2011.00776.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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