Modelling the habitat use and distribution of the threatened Javan slow loris Nycticebus javanicus

Endangered Species Research

Robert J. Wilson¹  Abinawanto¹  E. Johanna Rode¹  Wirdateti¹  K. Anne-Isola Nekaris¹  Camille N. Z. Coudrat¹  Alke Voskamp¹ 

关键词: Lorisidae;    Maximum entropy;    Nocturnal primate;    Java;    Species conservation;   

DOI  :  10.3354/esr00574

学科分类：动物科学

来源: Inter-Research

【 摘 要 】

ABSTRACT: The Javan slow loris Nycticebus javanicus is threatened by habitat decline and is classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Information on its distribution and habitat preferences is still lacking, and so far the distribution of the Javan slow loris has only been quantified via ecological niche modelling based on museum specimens and remotely derived environmental layers. We aimed to refine the modelled predictions and to verify the distribution of the Javan slow loris by collecting up-to-date occurrence data, which are fundamental for conservation and management of the species. Furthermore, we identify variables that predict its presence and give recommendations for future survey sites and conservation actions. From April to June 2012 we collected data on species presence, habitat preferences and levels of disturbance at priority sites throughout Java. We present a map of the predicted distribution of N. javanicus based on a maximum entropy model. We investigated habitat preferences using R (v. 2.14.1). During the study we sighted 52 lorises in 9 out of 14 investigated areas. The amount of bamboo in a forest had a positive effect on the encounter rates. Furthermore, we made 86% of sightings in forest plantations and agricultural areas located outside protected areas, with the majority located in areas with measured high levels of disturbance. We suggest that further ecological studies are needed to understand if and why densities may be higher in anthropogenically disturbed areas.

【 授权许可】

Unknown