Mammals in a fragmented habitat of the Chapada Diamantina Complex ecoregion, Northeastern Brazil
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37002/biodiversidadebrasileira.v15i1.2468Keywords:
Relative abundance , camera traps , threatened species , mammal faunaAbstract
Fauna surveys are essential for understanding and conserving biodiversity, as they can support more effective management actions and public policies. This study presents the characterization of a mammal community in terms of species richness and composition in Serra do Xavier, a human-impacted area of the Chapada Diamantina Complex ecoregion, within the Caatinga biome of Bahia. Field research was conducted between 2020-2022 using complementary methods (live traps, camera traps, and active searches). A total of 27 species were recorded, including two domestic species (Bos taurus and Canis familiaris). Three recorded wild mammals are regionally threatened. Sylvilagus brasiliensis, Cerdocyon thous, and Didelphis albiventris were the most abundant species across all methods. Despite a representative richness for a fragmented Caatinga habitat, the richness estimator suggests that more species could be recorded in the study area (S = 28). In addition to considerable species richness, the study area hosts threatened mammals sensitive to habitat loss and a top predator (Puma concolor). However, the region faces several anthropogenic pressures, including hunting, habitat loss and modification, intrusion of domestic animals, and wildlife roadkill, highlighting the need for public policies aimed at biodiversity conservation.
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