Masters Courses in Biodiversity & Conservation

Project details

The project is a major component of the Biodiversity and Conservation MSc, and projects play an even more important role in the MRes programme. For this reason, you may be interested to read the abstracts or full project reports of a selection of MSc and MRes research projects.

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Complete project reports

The following are examples of MSc and MRes projects that scored highly in recent years.

• A comparative study of the biotic and abiotic factors influencing the distribution of the native White-Clawed Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) and the invasive alien Signal Crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) in Yorkshire » download project report (pdf)
• Distribution, habitat and decline in central Spain of Parnassius apollo, a rare mountain butterfly » download project report (pdf)
• Foraging innovation and information diffusion in social networks of the Trinidadian guppy, Poecilia reticulata » download project report (pdf)

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Abstracts

These are organised according to country in which the project was carried out. The list is incomplete at the moment.

Australian Projects

Examination of mammal abundance & assemblage structure across an altitudinal gradient in the wet tropics bioregion, Australia.

A Lumholtz's tree kangaroo (Dendrolagus lumholtzi) in the Atherton Tablelands rainforest of north-east Queensland. This species is one of the 14 regionally endemic mammals that contributed to the measures of mammalian biodiversity recorded in this project.

Abstract

The rainforests of the Wet Tropics bioregion of north-eastern Queensland, Australia were listed as a World Heritage Area in 1988 because they contain high levels of species richness, endemism and evolutionary significant taxa. Within this region, the Atherton Tablelands have been cited as being one of the focal points of mammalian diversity, being home to 12 of the 14 regionally-endemic mammals. Much research has been done into spatial patterns in the distribution of mammals, but no studies to date have looked at distribution across the altitudinal gradient.

The aim of this study was to examine patterns of non-volant mammal abundance and assemblage structure across an altitudinal gradient on the Atherton Tablelands. Six sites were chosen at 200m intervals from 0m-1000m a.s.l. (above sea level) and a combination of live trapping of small mammals and spotlighting of arboreal folivores was undertaken on three occasions in June-July 2003. The results of this study showed that the abundance of all species observed varied in a curvilinear fashion with altitude, with the exception of Antechinus adustus, the abundance of which was not correlated with altitude. The murid rodents (Rattus fuscipes, Rattus leucopus, Melomys cervinipes, and Uromys caudimaculatus) were most abundant at the lower-mid altitude ranges (200-400m) while all the marsupials, except Pseudochirops archeri, were restricted to altitudes above 600m.

The overall mammal assemblage structure was strongly influenced by altitude and appeared to become more complex at higher elevations, peaking at 800m. This was largely due to the absence of marsupials from lowland sites. There were more mammal guilds at higher elevations with a corresponding increase in the mean number of species per guild. Further investigation showed that 54% of the variation in the pattern of species richness could be explained by one guild - the large arboreal folivores. Evidence suggests that this guild is the most extinction-prone and that it has poor recolonisation abilities.

B1OCLIM modelling suggested that large areas of upland forests in the Wet Tropics will shrink and become more fragmented with increasing temperatures as a result of global warming. This will have disastrous consequences for the marsupials observed in this study, particularly the arboreal folivores which appear to face increased thermoregulatory costs in lowland forests. Conservation action is urgently needed to ensure that the resilience of the current rainforests is maintained and the regionally-endemic fauna protected.

Azorean Projects

Foraging ecology and conservation of Cory’s Shearwaters in the Azores archipelago.

An adult Cory's shearwater (Calonectris diomedea) on its nest in the Selvagen islands, about 200km north of the Canary Islands.

Abstract

Food delivery to nestling Cory's Shearwaters, Calonectris diomedea borealis, was examined on the island of Corvo (39°40'N, 31°06'W) in the Azores archipelago. Evidence of regulation of food intake by both parents was found according to the nutritional status of their chick, something that has not been found previously by using repeated weighing protocols alone. Single and double meal sizes agree with previous studies on Cory's Shearwaters but are based on foraging independence of adults. Cory's Shearwaters do not appear to forage independently of each other on Corvo.

Using data from three adults to which we attached satellite transmitters, it was found that breeding Cory's Shearwaters can spend over 9 days foraging away from the nest and travel in a northerly direction to where there is presumably a predictable source of prey. During these long trips, half the time is spent in flight, predominantly during daylight hours when it is presumed that most foraging takes place. Birds travel fastest when returning to the colony, one bird having been recorded as travelling at over 105 km h-1, although the maximum normally attained flight speed is 45 km h-1. Shorter foraging trips of up to 2 days are predominantly in a southerly direction. It is thought that long and short trips represent a balance of the nutritional requirements of adults and chicks respectively.

Bolivian Projects

Species diversity, population densities, & habitat preferences in Altu Madidi, Madidi National Park, Bolivia

Map of Madidi National Park and surrounding areas. Inset shows the location of Madidi Park in Bolivia.

Abstract

The Northwestern Bolivian Andes are believed to be one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. Alto Madidi is a site within this area that is relatively pristine, as there has been little human pressure such as logging and hunting, and thus it may host high biodiversity typical of undisturbed areas. Alto Madidi is situated in a transitional zone between the Oriental plain and the Andean foothills of the Cordillera Oriental, and the main habitats present are Amazon humid plains forest, Andean piedmont forests and riverine forests. The population density of large mammals and large forest dwelling birds was investigated using line transect based methodology and the Distance program to compute population densities. Study area density estimates were calculated for: Ateles chamek (81.45ind/km2), Cebas apella (37.72 ind/km2), Saguinus.fuscicollis (43.03 ind/km2), Saimiri boliviensis (24.46ind/km2), Tayassu pecarri (98ind/km2), Penelope jacquacu (10.46 ind/km2), Mitu tuberosa (14.23ind/km2), Psophia leucoptera (33.45ind/km2). Frugivore resources were quantified and habitat preferences were also analysed, and significant differences in encounter rates between habitats were noted for Ateles, Psophia, Saimiri, Saguinus and Tayassu pecari. However densities did not vary with fruit abundance for all species. Additional food sources in the other habitats such as foliage and insects may provide for more generalist species, and competition may displace smaller species into less favourable habitats.

This site is notable for the presence of rare species that have been threatened or extirpated in many other parts of the Amazon, and high population densities of Ateles, Saguinus and Tayassu pecari. This is probably due to a combination of factors: minimal human pressure and the habitats present providing sufficient year-round food resources to support high populations, whereas in many other sites regular periods of food scarcity limit populations. There are opportunities for further research and for reinforcement of conservation and management practices in order to maintain the species community composition and abundances in this area.

Canadian Projects

Whale watching on Grand Manan, New Brunswick, Canada: a case study.

Abstract

The increasing popularity of whale watching has seen the development of management schemes, to regulate the industry by appropriate boat handling, primarily to prevent disturbance to the cetacean species being viewed. However, few studies have been conducted on the people who go whale watching, their behaviours and attitudes, expectations and satisfactions, which ultimately influence the industry. Through the thorough understanding of the people who go whale watching, it is hoped that more appropriate management schemes can be developed to enhance the whale watching industry for its customers, while remaining environmentally, socially and economically sustainable. The development of the tourist industry on Grand Manan has been supported by most of the residents, and has created social and economic benefits to the local community. The majority of tourists visiting Grand Manan were nature lovers, attracted by the scenery, tranquillity and wildlife. Many were also influenced by the presence of the whale watching industry on the island, but not the occurrence of the endangered Northern Right Whales. Therefore management for the protection of the Right Whales could be stricter, without damaging the whale watching industry on Grand Manan. Satisfaction of whale watchers was generally high, however it was dependent on factors such as sighting success, whale behaviour and level of education received. Recommendations for improving certain aspects of the tours is given, so that satisfaction can be improved, even when no whales are sighted.

Cook Islands Projects

Assessing the feasibility of restoring the Pacific Banyan on Rarotonga

Location of extant Ficus prolixa trees, together with recorded losses, on the east side of the island of Rarotonga in the Cook islands.

Abstract

The pacific banyan (Ficus prolixa), thought to be the Cook Islands' only native species of fig tree, is declining on Rarotonga. Due to the customary nature of land tenure, landowner agreement is a prerequisite for any conservation efforts on the island and consequently public support is vital for restoration to be feasible. We surveyed local, indigenous people, government representatives and conservationists to determine attitudes towards the tree and obtain support from landowners for its restoration. Interview data show high levels of knowledge regarding the species, particularly in the older generation, but few people felt it had any personal significance or use. Three landowners said they would have a tree on their land; however a past restoration attempt has failed through neglect. For long-term persistence of the species, a change in attitude towards land use and conservation is required with future generations placing a greater amount of importance on retaining their culturally significant species. The decline in interest in traditional values, and its replacement by a preoccupation with the improvement in material living standards means that such a change is not likely to occur without a radical transformation of educational practices.

Seed dispersal in the Pacific Banyan (Ficus prolixa) of the Cook Islands

An individual Pacific Banyan fig tree (Ficus prolixa) in the Cook islands.

Abstract

The effect of anthropogenic change on ecosystems is a matter of some concern in conservation, particularly in naturally depauperate tropical island systems which are reliant on a few keystone species and where disruption of close interactions between species can potentially result in extinction cascades. Human actions in the Cook Islands of the South Pacific have resulted in losses of seed dispersing animals to varying degrees on the different islands, potentially disrupting the mutualisms relied upon by native plants and affecting their ability to recruit new reproductive individuals or re-colonise degraded habitats. The extent to which plant recruitment is disrupted will be dependent on the closeness of the interaction and the effectiveness of the seed dispersers. This study is part of an on-going investigation into the relationship between the Pacific banyan Ficus prolixa and the potential seed dispersers which remain in the Cook Islands, both native and introduced, to determine the importance of the seed-dispersal mutualism to the persistence of the banyan. The aim is to extend the current knowledge of the species foraging on the banyan and their relative effectiveness as seed dispersers, through observation of frugivore activity and performing germination experiments with seeds to determine the effects of ingestion on viability.

Native fauna is generally considered to be more effective than introduced species, however in this study the native species were largely displaced by the introduced common mynah Acridotheres tristis, which was numerically the most important species present but is not considered to be highly effective as a disperser. Nocturnal species appeared to be as effective at fruit removal as diurnal species but it is uncertain which species is most responsible for this. None of the species observed appeared to be closely dependent upon the tree, and it is thought that the composition of the disperser assemblage may be largely dependent on the prevailing conditions, particularly the availability of alternative food sources and degree of competition. Introduced species may be sufficiently effective as seed dispersers to ameliorate the effects of disruption of traditional mutualisms, reducing these effects.

Recruitment appears to be absent on the islands, irrespective of presence of absence of native or introduced disperser species, therefore it appears that other factors besides seed dispersal are of concern to F. prolixa.

The status of the Pacific Banyan and its associated wasp species in the Cook Islands

Location of extant Ficus prolixa trees on the island of Atiu in the Cook islands.

Abstract

Known as Ava, Ficus prolixa is considered to be the only fig tree species that reached the Cook Islands without human assistance and is regarded as an important keystone species in the Cook Islands. Many of the islands' native bird and bat species rely on the year-round fruiting of the tree for food.

Ficus prolixa is pollinated by the fig wasp Platyscapa innumerabilis. Both show an obligate mutualism; the fig relies on the wasp for pollination and the wasp requires the fig in order to produce its offspring.

The status and distribution of Ficus prolixa and its associated hymenopteran fauna were investigated on the islands of Rarotonga, Atiu, Aitutaki and Mauke in the Southern group of Cook Islands.

Continued forest fragmentation has put the population of F. prolixa at risk on all the islands except Atiu where the population of fig trees is estimated to be between 100 and 200 individuals. On Rarotonga the population of F. prolixa has been reduced from 19 known individuals in 1998 to 13 examples in 2002 with two further trees under severe threat. Only four trees were found on Aitutaki and four trees on Mauke. No young trees or seedlings were found.

Despite the population sizes on Rarotonga, Aitutaki and Mauke being very small, the tree's pollinators were found to be still present and no pollination breakdown was observed.

Egyptian Projects

The distribution and abundance of golden jackels in Egypt

An Egyptian golden jackal (Canis aureus lupaster) raised in captivity.

Abstract

The Egyptian golden jackal is a cryptic, nocturnal carnivore that, like other larger mammals, is difficult to sight and to study. It is also highly morphologically variable within Egypt. In this study, a feasibility study was carried out for using track counts along transects to compare jackal abundance between sites in a desert environment. It was found that this method can be reliable, and does give information on the abundance of the target species, as well as that of co-occurring species. Track counts, as seen in this thesis, can also act as indicators of ecological interactions among these co-occurring species.

Also in this study, the population genetic structure of the Egyptian golden jackal was investigated and compared to that in Israel, and also to the population genetic structure of wolves in Saudi Arabia and Oman. Furthermore, amount of sequence divergence was investigated between species and within species. It was found that there was no genetic variation in the Egyptian jackal population, or in the jackal population in Israel, which both displayed single, different haplotypes, possibly indicating two independent bottleneck events. The Near East wolf population contained more haplotypes, suggesting a large female effective population size. These findings also indicate that morphological variation is not necessarily supported by mtDNA analysis using cytochrome b considering how variable jackals are in Egypt.

A sequence divergence of 4.8% between Egyptian and Israeli jackals suggests that the designation Canis aureus lupaster for the Egyptian jackals may have some grounding. Furthermore, hybridisation was detected in the Egyptian jackal population, indicating introgression events between either jackals and feral dogs, or jackals and wolves. If it is proven in future work that feral dogs do not carry this hybrid haplotype, then the presence of wolves on the African continent may be validated.

Galapagos Islands Projects

Assessment of nematode parasite burdens of the giant Galapagos tortoise

Giving a Galapagos giant tortoise (Geochelone elephantopus) a health check for parasites.

Abstract

Parasite populations have long been known to drive the demographic dynamics of the hosts in which they live. Faecal samples of the giant Galapagos tortoise were analysed for parasitic nematode eggs at the Galapagos Genetics, Epidemiology and Pathology Laboratory, of the Galapagos National Park, Santa Cruz Island. T-test analysis and stepwise linear modelling was used to calculate variance in egg abundance across 7 populations on 3 islands by testing variables in an additive and interactive multiplicative format. The island of origin and the captive or wild status of a population were seen to have the biggest effect on the variance of mean egg counts, with demographic sub-classes of the population acting as less significant variables. Theoretical suggestions for the differentiation seen in egg diversity and abundance are offered, with focal regard to the variation in conditions between the captive breeding centres and wild locations. The roles of seasonality and diet are examined as factors of egg abundance, and conservation implications for the giant Galapagos tortoise and endemic island fauna are considered.

Greek Projects

Habitat partitioning of bats in mixed Mediterranean montane woodland

Upper: Myotis bechsteinii.
Lower: Echolocation call of Rhinolophus ferrumequinum.

Abstract

Bat utilization of artificial fire pools located within the Dadia Forest Reserve, Greece, was studied to investigate the importance of drinking resources to bats within an arid forest environment.

Bat activity levels and species composition were measured using two methods: the analysis of recorded time-expanded echolocation calls and catching using mist-nets. Visual observations supported the experimental data. These methods confirmed that a diversity of bat species used pools as drinking resources. A comparison of the sampling methods found the recording method gave a more reliable indication of activity levels which could be compared between pools, whilst catching was susceptible to variables (such as the availability of physical structures which minimised the presence of the nets and made them less detectable to bats). Catching supported the recording method by identifying species that could not be identified by their calls alone (for instance, Myotis species' calls could not be identified beyond genus, whilst catching identified Myotis mystacinus (aurascens) and Myotis bechsteinii - neither had been documented within the reserve previously).

Significant differences in the mean activity levels at different times were found: activity appeared to peak an hour after sunset and then dropped to a low and fairly constant level for the remainder of the sampling session. The significant temporal pattern was thought to be associated with emergence times and the need for bats to rehydrate before the exertion of foraging. No significant differences were identified in the activity levels of species groups at different times so variations in the times that different species use drinking resources could not be compared.

The variation of bat activity levels at different pools and the pools used by different species were not random, indicating that bats display preferences towards different drinking resources. Vegetation density at two positions (within a 5m radius and a 50m radius of a pool) was used to categorise the pools but this did not account for the preferences shown by bats (either total or at species level) for different pools. Ambient temperature was found to have no significant effect on activity levels. Therefore other factors must be influencing bat preferences for drinking resources.

Taking into account the arid environment and the depletion of natural water resources for irrigation, it is proposed that these pools are important resources to bats that may help to promote bat density and distribution throughout the reserve. Recommendations to enhance pool use by bats reflect features that may make the pools attractive to bats as drinking resources, such as clear flight access to the water surface. As frequently used resources in an area of low water availability, the artificial pools make suitable sites for studying bat activity levels and species composition.

Microsatellite marker analysis in chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) in Hellenic populations in old-growth natural and orchard stands

A greek sweet chestnut tree (Castanea sativa), from which mirosatellites for genetic diversity analysis were extracted.

Abstract

Sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa) is characterised by the diverse products that can be obtained. Many varieties have been described and propagated by grafting, most of them for nut production, some for wood or both. In the present study four populations from two geographically distant areas in Northern Greece, an old-growth natural and an orchard form each locality, were sampled with regard to dormant buds. Microsatellite screening in two loci revealed that both natural populations are diploid with some triploid individuals, while orchard populations appeared to be triploid. The comparison between the old-growth natural and grafted populations showed no significant differences in heterozygosity. In natural populations, fixation indexes revealed an excess in heterozygosity in both regions, while Karitsa area appeared to have a greater genetic differentiation than Skiti area. The high diversity observed in genetic variation is very important for both the creation of good conditions for the future evolution of populations and the preservation of the present genetic constitution for conservation and genetic improvement purposes.

Guyanan Projects

Can Crabwood oil enterprises contribute to sustainable development of the riverine communities on North Rupununi, Central Guyana?

Domestic crabwood oil production in riverine communities

Abstract

The livelihoods of many people in the riverine communities of North Rupununi, in Guyanese Amazonia, are heavily dependent upon their surrounding biodiversity. In particular, hunting, subsistence agriculture and fishing provide the primary sources of food. Many villagers within these communities wish to retain their traditional economic livelihoods and culture, and believe that conservation of the surrounding biodiversity is essential in order to do this. However, many also wish to develop economically and unfortunately, while conservation, social stability and economic growth are complementary prerequisites for successful sustainable development, they may also conflict. Many people interested in supporting sustainable development consider that the best way to resolve the potential conflicts between economic growth, conservation and cultural preservation is to ensure that communities are aware of the opportunities for developing sustainably and the possible consequences.

Crabwood (Carapa guianensis Aublet (Meliaceae)) oil is a medicinal product that has been traditionally produced by Amerindian communities for hundreds of years. It appears to be one of the few economic activities currently practised by the North Rupununi riverine communities with the potential to marry economic growth with conservation of biodiversity and social stability, and thus to be developed sustainably. However, prior to this dissertation, there has been little study of crabwood oil's development opportunities or their consequences.

The following report provides information sufficient to enable four North Rupununi riverine communities to begin developing crabwood oil enterprises in a manner that will not degrade the resource base. Specifically, the report demonstrates how:

• it is possible to develop commercial crabwood oil enterprises;
• producers could initiate such development through improving the local market;
• this development can be socially, economically and environmentally sustainable and can contribute to the conservation of biodiversity;
• the local market could expand eight-fold over the next five years, from providing a total current income of around US$ 500 /year to providing a total income of US$ 4000 /year; and
• such development could meet local expectations and needs, and appears favourable when compared with attempting to develop other economic activities.

Honduran Projects

A comparison of acoustic and capture methods as means of assessing bat diversity and activity in Honduras

Abstract

The use of bat detectors in conjunction with traditional capture methods for creating inventories of microchiropteran communities is becoming increasingly widespread. However the extent to which bats can be distinguished by the properties of their echolocation calls is still in dispute. The current study compares two techniques for detecting bats and evaluates their effectiveness in contributing toward species lists and elucidating activity patterns in a previously unstudied area. Mist nets were deployed at a number of sites in three locations in the Merendon Mountains of northern Honduras (Base Camp, Buenos Aires and El Paraiso). A total of 266 bats of 28 species were captured over the 6-week study period and successfully recorded calls formed the basis of a reference library. An acoustic survey based on the number of bat passes detected with a Tranquility detector along a 250m transect was also carried out.

Interspecific variability in sonar properties was found to be low in relation to intraspecific variation and no statistical differences were found between call parameters of bats representing similar guilds. While this negates the reliability of acoustic methods to carry out accurate biodiversity assessments it highlights potential for recognition of bats according to their foraging guild.

Mist netting remains the most reliable way of identifying bats in the field but tends to be biased toward Phyllostomid bats foraging in the understorey. Acoustic monitoring is found to be a convenient method of assessing bat activity in an area but is sensitive to small scale variations in bat abundance, foraging patterns and habitat configurations. Future research should aim to supplement the call reference library with bats from different guilds and further elucidate ways of recognizing bats acoustically. Patterns of bat activity should also be established in order to maximize the effectiveness of surveys carried out in limited time periods.

Hong Kong Projects

The effects of boat traffic on the diving behaviour of the Hong Kong Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin, Sousa chinensis.

Abstract

Various studies have been done on the effects of boat traffic on cetaceans, but this mostly involves bottlenose dolphins and acoustic behaviour. Very little other than anecdotal evidence suggests that boats have an effect on the Hong Kong population of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, Sousa chinensis, more commonly known as the Chinese white or pink dolphin. This study looks at the effects of boat traffic on diving behaviour, as measured in dive duration, of these dolphins. From both a land- and boat-based sites, dolphin dive durations were measured in seconds, both with and without the presence of boats within 500 metres of the animals. No correlations were found between dive duration and various environmental and external variables such as cloud cover, wind direction, tide and time of day. Boat traffic remained constant throughout the day, with the exception of barge traffic, which slightly decreased as the day went on. The type of behaviour the dolphins exhibited did not significantly affect their dive durations, but the presence of boats significantly lengthened them, both on the land based (Mann-Whitney U test: N=51, Z=-3.244, p=0.001) and the boat-based sites (N=32, Z=-2.871, p=0.004). The same individuals, who were observed both with and without boat presence also had dive durations significantly affected by boats, both on the land based (Wilcoxon test: N=33, Z=-3.725, p=0.000) and boat based sites (N=20, Z=-2.987, p=0.003). This suggests that the dolphins stay under water longer as an adaptive response to boat traffic.

Indonesian Projects

A study of grasshoppers in Sulawesi

Sorry, no abstract currently available

A study of the habitat preferences of four species of sunbird and three species of flowerpecker on the island of Buton (SE Sulawesi)

Sorry, no abstract currently available

Kenyan Projects

Bird species diversity in important faunal reserves of East Africa: Patterns and causes

Sorry, no abstract currently available

Malaysian Projects

Source-sink bird populations in Malaysia

Sorry, no abstract currently available

Namibian Projects

Isolation of Lithidium carinatus on the Brandberg, Namibia

Left: the grasshopper Lithodopsis carinatus.
Right: satellite image of the oddly shaped Brandberg massif in Namibia.

Abstract

A recent pilot study of the Brandberg Mountain in the deserts of Namibia has highlighted both the importance of that particular mountain habitat and the paucity of information regarding many of the species and genera found on it. During the pilot study, specimens of Lithidiopsis carinatus, members of the family Lithidiidae, were collected. Because of the species preference for moister habitats and low expected dispersal due to its flightless lifestyle it was identified as a likely genera for an evolved endemic on the Brandberg. Further specimens were collected around Namibia to test this hypothesis, from 4 sites in 60 km increments from the Brandberg. DNA sequences from the mitochondrial gene cytochrome oxidase I (CO1) were obtained by `salting out' the DNA from a foreleg of the grasshoppers, then PCR using primers UEA3 and UEA4 and sequenced by dye terminator sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis of the sequences showed 4 highly differentiated populations, but that the Brandberg population was not more isolated than the rest of the sites. The possibility that these four populations represented the same highly variable species or four separate species was examined.

Pakistani Projects

Assessment of the population of Blue Sheep (Pseudois nayaur nayaur) and its future prospects for harvesting and conservation in the Sokhterabad Valley of the Khunjerab Village Organisation (KVO) Gilgit areas of northern Pakistan

Abstract

The Blue sheep (Pseudois nayaur) population status survey in Sokhterabad valley Northern Areas (NA) was conducted over a surface area of about 60 km². The prime aim of this study was to assess the population status of blue sheep and also to see its prospects for future harvesting and conservation. The total population counted during the study in June 2003 was 220 animals, while the survey figures obtained from the NAs Forest Department (NAFD) depicted 234 animals in 2002. Comparison of population data and the trend between the year 2002 and 2003 showed a slight difference. The density of blue sheep was 3.9/km^2 in 2002, while it was 3.7/km^2 in 2003, which also did not indicate much difference in the population size. There was no significant difference in 1:1 sex ratio, as evident from Chi squared test of female sex ratio. The group size increased with increase in altitude and the percentage of males and juveniles were not correlated with altitude and habitat. There was an effect of low and high altitude on group size. The group size at higher altitudes was bigger than the groups at lower elevations. No effect of habitat on group size was observed. Similarly the percentage of males and juveniles were not affected by altitude. There was no visible impact of altitude on trophy size males and also no effect of altitude on trophy males was observed. There was no correlation between the group size and altitude and percentage of males and juveniles did not change with altitude and group size. The comparison of percentage of males and juveniles in group size during the years 2002 and 2003 were similar and no big difference was observed. As a general principle adopted in NAs and NWFP, Pakistan, 1% of the total population or 25% of total trophy males are determined as harvest quota. The overall mean group size was 22.3 animals in 2002 and 18.3 animals in 2003. Trophy hunting of blue sheep in Sokhterabad has the potential be a development strategy because it may benefit the people of KVO and predispose them towards conservation and may help prevent illegal hunting. The future commercial harvest of this animal can be initiated after determining its reliable population trend over 3-4 years, and assessing the stability and maximum sustainable harvest through well designed surveys by expert biologists.

Habitat preferences of Black and Grey Partridge in Rakh Sardaran Game Reserve, NWFP Pakistan

Abstract

Central to the study of animal ecology is the use that an animal makes of its environment, specifically, the kinds of food it consumes and the varieties of habitats it occupies. Resource selection by animals can occur for food, habitat, or other resources like nest sites. If an animal is faced with a variety of possible habitat types, it prefers some and avoids others. Adequate quantities of preferred habitats or resources are necessary to sustain animal populations in the wild. Determining which resources are selected more often than others is of particular interest because it provides fundamental information about the type of animals and how they meet their requirements for survival.

It is often assumed that a species will select resources that are best able to satisfy its needs, and that high quality resource will be selected more than low quality ones. However, many factors, including population density, competition with other species, natural selection, the chemical composition or texture of forage, inheritance, and predation contribute to resource selection.

Understanding bird-habitat relationships can help predict the effects of management and habitat change on bird populations. The apparent habitat preference of black partridge (Francolinus francolinus) and grey partridge (F. pondicerianus) in Rakh Sardaran game reserve of Haripur district, NWFP Pakistan were examined during 18 May - 13 June 2001. Those two species were more or less continuously distributed, mainly in four habitat types. The species preferred woody vegetation related microhabitats, such as woodland, shrubland and woody ravine. Black partridge was mostly found in woodland and woody ravine, while grey partridge was mostly found in shrubland and woody ravine. However, frequency of occurrence of grey partridge was almost twice to that of black partridge.

Based on analysis of data collected during the survey, we found that black partridge highly prefer woodland and woody ravine, whereas, grey partridge prefer shrubland and woody ravine.

Impact of Trophy Hunting on Markhor (Capra falconeri falconeri) Population in Tushi Game Reserve, Chitral, North West Frontier Province of Pakistan

The Markhor (Capra falconeri falconeri), a member of the goat family, in its natural habitat

Abstract

The study has been conducted with the objective to determine the impact of the trophy hunting program on markhor conservation, and perceptions of communities and their role in the program. The program was initiated in Tooshi Shasha reserve and Gehrait reserves in Chitral district of North West Frontier Province (N.W.F.P.) of Pakistan in 1999. The primary objective of the program was to conserve markhor and its habitat through the active participation of local communities. The N. W.F.P. Wildlife Department and IUCN-Pakistan felt due to precarious status of markhor that the animal could not be conserved without the active participation of the communities living around its habitat.

Under Pre-Investment Feasibility (PRIF) Project Maintaining Biodiversity in Pakistan with Rural Community Development implemented in collaboration with the N.W.F.P. Wildlife Department between 1995-1999, the communities of the reserve were organised for the markhor conservation in particular and biodiversity in general.

For the present study markhor census data of trophy hunting area (Tooshi Shasha and Gehrait reserves) and non-hunting areas (Drosh gol, Purit gol, Ashiret, Zachga and Kashindal) of ten years (1993-2002) were collected from the record of N.W.F.P. Wildlife Department for analysis. Interviews of the representatives of the village conservation committees (VCCs) were also conducted to determine their views and role in the trophy hunting program and markhor conservation.

According to the analysis of census data the rise in the markhor population was observed in Tooshi Shasha as compared to non-hunting areas and Gehrait reserves. The fawn female ratio of the reserve remained lower than the Purit gol, and Kashindal areas, whereas male survivorship was not significantly different between the hunting and the non-hunting areas.

The population growth was also not significantly different between the hunting and the non-hunting sites. The rise in the population of Tooshi Shasha suggested that the trophy hunting program played a vital role in the conservation of markhor and its habitat.

It was observed during the interviews that the perceptions of the community about the trophy hunting program were very positive and they showed remarkable receptivity to the program. The VCCs undertook various activities for the conservation of markhor which included raising of plantations to meet their requirement for fuelwood and fodder to reduce the impact on markhor habitat, deployment of village wildlife guard, imposing ban on livestock grazing in the posture inhabited by markhor, establishment of village conservation fiends, and preparation of markhor conservation plans, etc.

The trophy hunting program played significant role to control poaching of markhor which was the major cause for decline of the latter. For the sustainability of the program it is imperative that all the conservation agencies extend full cooperation to VCCs.

Peruvian Projects

Cooperative breeding in the Giant Otter, Pteronura brasiliensis, in Manau Biosphere Reserve, Peru.

The South American giant otter, Pteronura brasiliensis.

Abstract

Cooperative breeding in mammals covers a diversity of breeding systems. In all cases, however, individuals assist in the rearing of offspring other than their own. The South American giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis, Gmellin 1788) lives in social groups. with subadults remaining with the family for 2-3 years. Very little is known about its communally breeding lifestyle. Here, the behaviour of the giant otter was documented, covering two family groups for a period of six weeks in Manu Biosphere Reserve, Peru. During this observational held study it was investigated if subadults and juveniles assist in the rearing of cubs within family groups, and whether different individuals specialise in particular activities. Following over 97 hours of direct observation, it was found that both subadults and juveniles provision the cubs with food, although juveniles do so significantly less than the adults. Individuals vary in their contribution to some behaviours but not others. Contributions to different activities were correlated with age, suggesting a temporary age-related polyethism. This study does not provide evidence of behavioural specialisation in the giant otter.

Portuguese Projects

The effects of habitat fragmentation on European rabbits in the Alentejo, Portugal

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The effects of island size on diversity of small mammal communities in Alqueva Reservoir, Alentejo, Portugal

Abstract

Habitat fragmentation is one of the greatest threats to conservation of biodiversity. It has different components of which the effect of patch size on the species richness is the earliest and the best known. The construction of Alqueva dam in Alentejo, Portugal, due to the chronic water shortage in that area, has led to flooding of 25000 ha of natural and semi-natural lands and it has caused major changes on the structure of the ecosystem. Some habitat islands are formed due to vegetation clearing in the area and it is predicted that they will harbour wildlife after flooding. I tested the effects of island size on the species richness of small mammal communities in this reservoir. I live-trapped small mammals on' six habitat islands ranged between 0.17 - 3.15 ha in size, using Sherman live traps. During 1350 trapnights a total of 47 animals were captured and five species of small mammals were encountered; three species of rodents, Wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus), Algerian mouse (Mus spretus), Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus), and two species of insectivores, White-toothed shrew (Crocidura russula) and lesser whitetoothed shrew (Crocidura suaveolens). Mus spretus was the most common species captured (48.9 %) and Apodemus sylvaticus was the second most common species captured (31.9%). Rattus norvegicus was only found on two islands probably because of the past human activities on these two islands. Species richness increased with patch size (Shannon-Weiner index of diversity) and was significantly correlated with island size using Spearman correlation test (Spearman's rho=1; n=7; P< 0.01). Also numbers of captured animals on each site were significantly correlated to the amount of Retama bush coverage (Spearman's rho = 0.76; n = 7; P <0.05). Catches were male biased and females were only found on control (mainland) site. It seemed that habitat size was important factor affecting diversity of small mammals, but its influence varies among species. In addition, other factors such as, isolation, disturbance and habitat complexity may also influence species richness of small mammal communities, which because of small sample size due to short trapping period and limited number of traps, I was not able to make any prediction about them.

Spanish Projects

Distribution, habitat and decline in central Spain of Parnassius apollo, a rare mountain butterfly

Abstract

Parnassius apollo (Linnaeus 1758) is a rare mountain butterfly at high priority consideration for conservation. In the last 30 years in many European countries P. apollo populations have severely decreased in numbers and density or even are threatened with extinction. In the Sierra de Guadarrama (central Spain) the species is declining remarkably. In this study, 18 sites with current or former populations of the species were visited during the butterfly flight period in 2005. Two of the populations have very low P. apollo population density and in four of them the species can be considered extinct. The study focused on sites' biotope characteristics and butterfly egg laying preferences. Habitat requirements that are important in explaining P. apollo population density and population survival in the Sierra de Guadarrama were related to Sedum amplexicaul, the probable larval host plant, as well as altitude (higher population density at high altitudes), vegetation composition, and the presence of S. pedicellatum and S. forsteranum that might complement the presence of S. amplexicaule by providing alternative host plants. In addition, a high percentage of shrubs seem to be important for P. apollo females when choosing a site to lay an egg. Implications for the conservation of P. apollo and for other mountain insect species are discussed.

Grasshopper contact zones in Spain

Sorry, no abstract currently available

Rabbits, ants and desertification in Spain

Sorry, no abstract currently available

Trinidadian Projects

Biodiversity of freshwater habitat in Trinidad

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Foraging innovation and information diffusion in social networks of the Trinidadian guppy, Poecilia reticulata.

An example of the network structure of a wild population, showing the non-random nature of the network (only significant pair-wise interactions shown).

Abstract

Animal populations are highly structured in nature; individuals are connected in matrices of preferential interactions that can be represented as social networks. The diffusion of innovations between individuals has been studied in some depth, but little is known about the effect of social network structure upon information transmission. Here natural and artificially constructed networks were exposed to a novel foraging task, which involved locating food concealed within an opaque feeder. Wild populations performed better at the task, with more fish feeding, and were also bolder, approaching the feeder more quickly. This research highlights some of the benefits of familiarity: I propose that wild populations are more successful due to a relaxation in inter-individual competition and a reduced level of risk aversion. Social network structure predicted neither foraging trial performance nor the rate or order of information diffusion through the network. This may be attributable to a number of factors: it potentially reflects the exploitation of public information by individuals that did not associate with the innovator, or may indicate the importance of weak ties within the network. Further work would be valuable to investigate these hypotheses. Innovators did not share any social network characteristics, suggesting that social position does not predispose individuals to innovate.

Is freshwater fish diversity affected by anthropogenic activities in Trinidad

Sorry, no abstract currently available

Sex biased dispersal and reciprocal altruism in the guppy (Poecelia reticulatus)

Sorry, no abstract currently available

USA Projects

The effect of boat traffic on the behaviour of the Minke whale (Alaska)

Sorry, no abstract currently available

United Kingdom Projects

A comparative study of the biotic and abiotic factors influencing the distribution of the native White-Clawed Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) and the invasive alien Signal Crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) in Yorkshire

Gel showing PCR products detected during a molecular scan for parasitic DNA

Abstract

1. Twenty one sites within Yorkshire were surveyed for populations of crayfish: of these, nine sites had populations of the native White-Clawed crayfish, Austropotamobius pallipes; five sites had populations of the highly invasive North American Signal crayfish, Pacifastacus leniusculus; and three sites had mixed populations of the two species. Four sites had no crayfish present. Comparison with historical records demonstrates a spread of P. leniusculus within the study region.
2. Eight A. pallipes individuals and 52 P. leniusculus individuals were screened for microsporidian infection by PCR. All eight A. pallipes were infected with Thelohania contejeani, a microsporidian parasite of crayfish; however prevalence could not be calculated as all individuals tested are likely to have died from microsporidiosis. Three microsporidian parasites were recorded from P. leniusculus, with a combined prevalence of 38%. T. contejean was confirmed as present in P. leniusculus for the first time; Bacillidium vesiculoformis and a Vittaforma-like parasite are recorded for the first time from a crayfish host. Avenues for further research are suggested.
3. Crayfish tissue samples were screened for Aphanomyces astaci, the causative agent of crayfish plague. No positive control material was available and PCR products of the expected size were not obtained: the status of A. astaci could not be confirmed.
4. Crayfish tissue samples were screened for Psorospermium haeckeli, a crayfish parasite which has only recently been recorded from British Austropotamobius pallipes populations (Rogers et al., 2003). No positive control material was available and no PCR product of the expected size was obtained. Three PCR products of 200, 400 and 600 base pairs were sequenced, all of which were found to be amplified regions of host DNA. The presence or absence of this parasite could not be confirmed.
5. Size distribution was compared between single species and mixed populations for both species. A. pallipes were significantly smaller in mixed populations than in single species populations whilst P. leniusculus were significantly larger. This makes reproductive interference as a mode of competition unlikely; a hypothesis of interspecific cannibalism during moult is instead proposed.
6. Invertebrate samples were taken from eight of the study sites. No relationship was found between invertebrate diversity or evenness and crayfish density; however, data was limited and further work is suggested.
7. Water samples were taken from 11 of the study sites and analysed to determine pH, oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, total hardness, alkalinity and acidity. Regression analyses showed significant relationships with alkalinity and total hardness when used as predictors of crayfish density.

An investigation of genetic diversity in fragmented habitat using Drosophila phalerata

Sorry, no abstract currently available

Clinal variation in the size distribution of a GTT microsatellite repeat motif in populations of the rough periwinkle Littorina saxatilis

Abstract

The rough periwinkle Littorina saxatilis is a common inhabitant or Atlantic rocky shores and experiences substantial polymorphism. In some shores studied in Britain and Ireland, it is known to occur in two distinct morphs: H and M. These habitat morphs are thought to be undergoing sympatric divergence on the shore as a result of a selection gradient that is maintained by the physical environment and crab predation. L. saxatilis individuals were collected from Sheep's Head Peninsula in southwest Ireland and from St Ninian's Cave in Galloway, Scotland. A GTT microsatellite repeat motif was amplified from 99 female L. saxatilis and band sizes were estimated. The average band size was compared between L. saxatilis obtained from different parts of the shore. A significant clinal variation of a GTT microsatellite repeat motif was found in L. saxatilis populations in both of the sites. Furthermore, in the St Ninian's Cave, this variation seems to correlate with the phenotypic variation revealed by multivariate morphometrics. Conversely, the L. saxatilis in the Sheep's Head Peninsula experienced significant clinal variation in the distribution of the repeat motif but no phenotypic differentiation was found. The results of this study confirm with past research on the genetic divergence of populations of L. saxatilis along an environmental cline. The results also suggest that the pattern observed in the study could represent a more widespread pattern in the British Isles.

Harvest mice (Micromys minutus) in the Leeds area: distribution and habitat management recommendations

Abstract

The harvest mouse is at the northern edge of its range in Yorkshire and relatively little was known about its distribution and habitat requirements. Because of this it Xmas identified as a priority species in the Leeds Local Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) (Leeds City Council 2001).

The current study was carried out in order to help implement the harvest mouse Species Action Plan (SAP) in Leeds area by investigating its current distribution and habitat requirements in relation to land management.

Sixty-three harvest mouse records were located for Leeds area from 1970 to 2002. Twenty eight sites were surveyed using the nest searching method and nine of these were found to be positive for harvest mice, including four new locations.

Harvest mice are widely distributed in the east of Leeds District and locally abundant in the wetlands adjacent to the rivers Aire and Calder. A handful of records also exist from the area around Adel in the north west of the district. The altitude of most records from Leeds is less than 100m.

A range of habitat variables were analysed using logistic regression to try and determine which factors are important in predicting the presence of harvest mice at a site. None of the variables tested had a significant relationship with harvest mouse presence, although average vegetation height was approaching significance at the P<0.05 level. A larger data set would be required in order to draw any meaningful conclusions from a logistic regression.

Habitat deterioration, in the form of overgrazing and invasion by I. glandulifera, is having a negative effect on harvest mice at a small number of sites.

Nest materials were found to broadly represent the surrounding habitat type and vegetation height at nest sites did not influence nest height itself. Harvest mice do however seem to prefer to nest between 20 and 80cm above ground level in tall vegetation.

The importance of refuges is stressed, especially in areas where vegetation is cut on a regular basis, or at sites which are prone to flooding, and management recommendations concerning the cutting of vegetation are outlined.

The possibility of linking harvest mouse range extension to Habitat Action Plans for reedbeds and hedgerows and field margins is discussed. Plans for wetland habitat restoration on disused coal mines and sand and gravel extraction sites, and the introduction of the Entry Level agri-environment scheme, could both have an impact on future harvest mouse success in the Leeds area.

Interaction between two specis of ground nesting seabird on Handa Island, Scotland

Abstract

Great Black-backed gulls (Larus marinus) nest in the midst of Great skuas (Stercorarius skua) on Handa Island off the west coast of Sutherland, Scotland. A comparison of the breeding success of Great Skuas of two sites differing in the number of Great blackbacked gulls (GBBs) they contained was conducted. The effects of proximity to GBBs on breeding adult behaviour were also investigated by detailed observations on 27 focal nests from the incubation stage until fledging. Evidence was found of predation of Great Skua chicks by GBBs. Birds nesting near one or more Great black-backed gulls were found to have significantly lower breeding success, a higher proportion of addled eggs and smaller clutch volumes. Attendance was not found to differ between pairs nesting near GBBs and those that did not. Males nesting near GBBs were found to spend less time off-territory. Later laying birds nested further away from GBBs and birds nesting near GBBs spent less time incubating. Birds nesting near one or more GBBs were found to spend a greater proportion of time engaged in on-territory flapping flight for parts of the breeding period. GBBs are deemed to have a negative impact on Great skua productivity at all stages and impacts on future reproductive success are discussed.

Shoaling and individual choice behaviour in European minnows Phoxinus phoxinus from the Wharfe river, West Yorkshire

Sorry, no abstract currently available

Species interaction and climate change: a butterfly and its parasitiods

Sorry, no abstract currently available

Temporal effect of upland heathland burning in invertebrate diversity

Sorry, no abstract currently available

The ecology and reproductive success of the Dark Red Helleborine Epipactis atrorubens (Hoffman) Besser

The orchid Epipactis atrorubens growing on limestone pavement in the UK.

Abstract

Eleven populations of the Nationally Scarce orchid Epipactis atrorubens were studied in Derbyshire and Lancashire, UK. Relationships between male pollinum removal, population size, densities at multiple scales, herbivory levels and proportions of flowering plants per population were investigated. Also investigated were the effects of environmental variation in topography, vegetation and light levels on these variables. Plants in small populations were less likely to show pollinium removal and had low proportions of pollinia removal per inflorescence. The proportion of leaf herbivory and density within a 30 x 30cm square around focal plants were also highlighted as important predictors of pollinium removal. Contrary to previous suggestions there was no effect of inflorescence size or the magnet species effect on the degree of pollinium removal. Density at the 630 x 630cm scale was found to be a significant predictor of the proportion of leaf herbivory per focal plant, with intermediate densities at this scale resulting in increased herbivory to focal plants. Inflorescence herbivory per population is greatest on south facing slopes and increases with increasing leaf herbivory levels and decreasing distance between inflorescences. The study has increased current knowledge on the ecology of the little studied E. atrorubens. It concludes that population size is a major factor in determining pollinator service and thus male reproductive success to the species and that management should aim to maximise population sizes. Further studies should investigate effects of herbivory on the long term survival of the species.