scholarly journals Evaluating different conservation approaches to protection of subterranean fauna in Slovenia

2018 ◽  
Vol 1 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maja Zagmajster ◽  
Petra Bregović ◽  
Teo Delić ◽  
Cene Fiser ◽  
Žiga Fišer ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Conservation Status ◽  
Species Conservation ◽  
Single Site ◽  
Habitats Directive ◽  
Western Balkans ◽  
Natural Habitats ◽  
Current Conservation ◽  
Apparent Lack ◽  
First Case ◽  
Subterranean Species

Due to increasing human activities with negative impacts on wildlife and natural habitats, it has become necessary to establish conservation policies protecting at least parts of natural diversity. Subterranean fauna presents a challenge for conservation as species with small ranges or single site occurrences are common. In addition to the high level of strict endemism, the concealed lifestyles in habitats that are difficult to access make it challenging to establish the conservation status of subterranean species. Conservation approaches have different practical implications, but they should: i) include a sufficient number of important sites or proportion of species populations, and ii) involve monitoring of target species and habitats to check the effectiveness of conservation efforts. We evaluated both aspects in two study cases on subterranean fauna from Slovenia, which is known as one of the global biodiversity hotspots in the Western Balkans. In the first case, we investigated to what extent current conservation schemes cover single site species. In the second case, we studied a region in Southern Slovenia and evaluated to what extent the EU legislation, namely EU Habitats directive, has been successfully implemented. In the frame of the latter, Sites of Community Importance were designated also due to the presence of important cave habitats and subterranean species. Our results suggest that the inclusion of important subterranean sites in conservation schemes is considerable. But, the apparent lack of research and monitoring of both subterranean habitats and species hampers the conclusions on effectiveness of different conservation approaches.

scholarly journals New rules or old concepts? The golden jackal (Canis aureus) and its legal status in Central Europe

2021 ◽  
Vol 67 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jennifer Hatlauf ◽  
Kathrin Bayer ◽  
Arie Trouwborst ◽  
Klaus Hackländer
Keyword(s):  
Central Europe ◽  
Native Species ◽  
Legal Status ◽  
Local Level ◽  
Conservation Status ◽  
Species Conservation ◽  
Golden Jackal ◽  
Current Conservation ◽  
Canis Aureus ◽  
Legal Obligations

AbstractConflicts have emerged due to range expansions of the golden jackal (Canis aureus) across Europe, characterized by their international conservation status and perceived impacts on livestock and native prey species. Most countries in Central Europe do not yet include the golden jackal in their national list of occurring, native species. Nevertheless, legal obligations arise as soon as golden jackals colonize a particular country. Legal implications of this range expansion were described in past studies from an international perspective. However, they left out specifics on the legal status within any particular country. Therefore, we examine the actual legal status within Central European countries, exemplifying the diverse federal and provincial laws. In particular, we assess the current conservation and hunting laws in Austria’s provinces and discuss them in the context of neighbouring countries to analyse implications for relevant authorities. We found substantial contrasts not only among provinces but also between direct neighbouring countries, impeding efforts for transboundary species conservation and leading to complications regarding the management of this species. Improved procedures for collecting records and hunting-bag data appear necessary for future species assessment on a European level and management on a local level. We recommend a more unified legal system but adjusted to actual golden jackal presence on the regional and cross-border level, combined assessment, or similar management strategies to minimize conflicts, reduce persecution, and clarify legal obligations.

scholarly journals Szata roślinna obszaru ochrony siedlisk i gatunków Natura 2000 Pakosław − współczesne przemiany i problemy ochrony [Recent changes of plant cover on special area of conservation Natura 2000 Pakoslaw (Central Poland)]

2013 ◽  
Vol 101 ◽  
pp. 125-214
Author(s):  
Romuald Olaczek ◽  
Maria Kurzac
Keyword(s):  
Conservation Status ◽  
Plant Cover ◽  
Natura 2000 ◽  
Current Status ◽  
Habitats Directive ◽  
Peat Bog ◽  
The European Union ◽  
Natural Habitats ◽  
Swamp Forest ◽  
Special Area

Special area of conservation of the Natura 2000 Pakoslaw includes peat bog (about 400 ha) and forest fragment on a neighboring hill nature reserve (28.55 ha). There are 4 species of plants: <em>Adenophora liliifolia, Ligularia sibirica, Liparis loeselii, Ostericum palustre</em> and several types of natural habitats, among others: wet meadows, transitional peat-bog, thermophilous oak forest, which requires the protection of the European Union Habitats Directive. In the peat bog flora, numbering 296 species, are present glacial relicts. The aim of study was to investigate the current status of flora and vegetation and the direction and pace of change as the basis for the active protection. This paper describes the geological, hydrological and anthropogenic environmental factors and their impact on the flora and plant communities. Particular attention was paid to accelerate the process of secondary and progressive ecological succession during the last 50 years, resulting in displacement of grasses and sedges communities willow thickets and later by alder swamp forest. Species and natural habitats of the site are threatened and need to improve their conservation status.

scholarly journals Diversity of the Seed Material of Selected Plant Species of Naturally Valuable Grassland Habitats in Terms of the Prognosis of Introduction Success

2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (24) ◽  
pp. 13979
Author(s):  
Maria Janicka ◽  
Bogumiła Pawluśkiewicz ◽  
Elżbieta Małuszyńska ◽  
Tomasz Gnatowski
Keyword(s):  
Seed Germination ◽  
Plant Species ◽  
Plantago Lanceolata ◽  
Conservation Status ◽  
Weather Conditions ◽  
Germination Capacity ◽  
Natural Habitats ◽  
Current Conservation ◽  
Seed Material ◽  
Grassland Habitats

The current conservation status of semi-natural grassland habitats in Poland indicates that actions for their restoration are necessary. Many of the degraded sites require the introduction of diaspores of representative species because other methods of improving their condition are not sufficiently effective. Meanwhile, little is known about the diaspores of native wild-flower species and the biology of their seeds. The aim of the present study was to find an answer to the question of which features of the seed material can guarantee the success of the introduction. The study covered 28 plant species of 4 non-forest natural habitats (codes: 6440, 6410, 6510, 6210) occurring in river valleys. Diaspores were collected in 2015–2017. Morphometric measurements of diaspores were performed, the weight of 1000 diaspores was determined and the germination capacity analysis was carried out in accordance with ISTA Rules. The analysis was made with the division into normal seedlings, abnormal seedlings, dead seeds and fresh ungerminated seeds. Species with similar parameters of seed material were selected using the method of hierarchical clustering and PCA analysis. Three groups of species were distinguished: (1) with good seed germination capacity (above 65%), which, regardless of weather conditions during the generative development, and despite the small size of diaspores, can guarantee successful introductions (Verbascum thapsus, Veronica longifolia, Daucus carota, Plantago lanceolata); (2) species of little suitability for introduction, due to the large proportion (over 50%) of dead seeds (Armeria maritima, Linaria vulgaris, Potentilla erecta, Centaurea stoebe, Sanguisorba officinalis, Cnidium dubium); (3) species with relatively large size of diaspores and low seed germination capacity, due to the high proportion of fresh ungerminated seeds which means dormant seeds (Lathyrus pratensis, Geranium pratense).

Conservation and utilization of threatened hardwood species through reforestation ? an example of Afzelia xylocarpa (Kruz.) Craib and Dalbergia cochinchinensis Pierre in Cambodia

2010 ◽  
Vol 16 (2) ◽  
pp. 101 ◽  
Author(s):  
T. So ◽  
I. Theilade ◽  
B. Dell
Keyword(s):  
Poverty Reduction ◽  
Conservation Status ◽  
Natural Forests ◽  
Natural Habitats ◽  
Current Conservation ◽  
Hardwood Species ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
International Prices ◽  
Production Areas

The leguminaceous rosewoods, Afzelia xylocarpa (Caesalpiniodeae) and Dalbergia cochinchinensis (Faboideae) are threatened by habitat loss and exploitation for their extremely highly-prized timber throughout their range. This paper examines the current conservation status of A. xylocarpa and D. cochinchinensis in Cambodia, draws together information on silviculture and trade, and summarizes current conservation measures in the country. Urgent measures are required to conserve and sustainably use the remaining genetic resources. Opportunities and challenges for achieving these goals, through use of the two threatened species in reforestation, are discussed. The suitability of the species for reforestation combined with increasing domestic and international prices for rosewood provide an opportunity for promotion of the species in planting programmes. This would not only alleviate the pressure on their natural habitats, but also bring about economic benefit. The paper outlines some important steps in the development of domestication strategies including testing and improving silvicultural practices, and increasing the supply of genetically superior seeds from seed production areas and/or seed orchards. As a first step, a network of in situ gene banks has been established in natural forests in Cambodia. A wide range of stakeholders need to participate in such programmes in order to address socio-economic development and poverty reduction. This is in line with the main objective of the National Forest Programme of Cambodia.

scholarly journals Conservation status of Italian coastal dune habitats in the light of the 4th Monitoring Report (92/43/EEC Habitats Directive)

2020 ◽  
Vol 57 (1) ◽  
pp. 55-64 ◽  
Author(s):  
Irene Prisco ◽  
Claudia Angiolini ◽  
Silvia Assini ◽  
Gabriella Buffa ◽  
Daniela Gigante ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Sand Dunes ◽  
Conservation Status ◽  
Coastal Dunes ◽  
Habitats Directive ◽  
Specific Reference ◽  
Current Conservation ◽  
Management Actions ◽  
Biogeographical Regions ◽  
Inland Dunes ◽  
Monitoring Report

Coastal dunes are among habitats with the worst conservation status on a global, European and national scale. Monitoring and reporting are of strategic importance to determine the effectiveness of the implementation of Habitats Directive and to preserve the unique biodiversity heritage of the Italian dunes. In this study we show main results of the 4th National Report with specific reference to the macro-habitat “Coastal Sand Dunes and Inland Dunes”, highlighting its updated current conservation status at the national and Biogeographical level. A comprehensive Working Group of territorial experts collected, updated, validated and integrated the data available for 11 Annex I Habitats, distributed in the Alpine, Continental and Mediterranean Biogeographical Regions. The conservation status was evaluated through the following criteria: geographic range, surface area, structure, functions, pressures, threats, conservation measures and prospects. Results highlighted the dramatically bad conservation status of Italian dune Habitats: the overall assessment reported 88% of habitats in bad conservation status and the remaining 12% is in inadequate conditions. Results showed a generalised threat and a worrying conservation status both on herbaceous and wooded communities, in particular in some relevant habitats, such as the shifting dunes. Main pressures and threats were linked to residential, commercial and industrial activities, as well as alien species. Although some of the changes in distribution and trends are probably deriving from more accurate and updated data, the alarming conservation status of Italian sand dunes requires a better knowledge of pressures and threats for further management actions and monitoring plans, inside and outside protected areas.

scholarly journals Bumble bee species distributions and habitat associations in the Midwestern USA, a region of declining diversity

2021 ◽  
Vol 30 (3) ◽  
pp. 865-887
Author(s):  
Jessie Lanterman Novotny ◽  
Paige Reeher ◽  
Megan Varvaro ◽  
Andrew Lybbert ◽  
Jesse Smith ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Conservation Status ◽  
Species Conservation ◽  
Common Species ◽  
Habitat Associations ◽  
Bumble Bees ◽  
Food Plants ◽  
Bumble Bee ◽  
Current Conservation ◽  
Southern Boundary ◽  
Starting Point

AbstractBumble bees (Bombus spp.) are important pollinators, yet rapidly declining globally. In North America some species are thriving while others are nearing extinction. Recognizing subtle differences in species’ biology and responses to environmental factors is required to illuminate key threats and to understand their different population trajectories. We intensively surveyed bumble bees in Ohio, USA, along the receding southern boundary of many species’ ranges, to evaluate current conservation status of the state’s species. In 318 90-min field surveys across two consecutive years we observed 23,324 bumble bees of 10 species visiting 170 plant species. Habitat, landscape, latitude, and their interactions significantly influenced bumble bee abundance, species richness, and community composition during peak season. Sites planted with flowers yielded more bumble bee individuals and species than did sites not planted with bee food plants. Bombus impatiens, B. griseocollis, and B. bimaculatus comprised 93% of all observations. Their abundances all peaked in habitats planted with wildflowers, but there were species-specific responses to local and landscape factors. Three less common species (B. fervidus, B. vagans, and B. perplexus) were more likely to be found in forested landscapes, particularly in the northeastern portion of the state. Bombus perplexus was also affiliated with planted urban wildflower patches. These results provide a strong starting point for future monitoring and conservation intervention that targets less common species. A quantitative synthesis of detailed state-level and regional datasets would allow additional insight into broad scale patterns of diversity in bumble bee communities and species conservation trajectories.

The rediscovery of the Southern Swallowtail (Papilio alexanor Esper, 1799) in Bosnia & Herzegovina after 50 years of absence

2019 ◽  
Vol 70 (1) ◽  
pp. 27-30
Author(s):  
Toni Koren ◽  
Matea Martinović
Keyword(s):  
Host Plant ◽  
Bosnia And Herzegovina ◽  
Recent Observation ◽  
Conservation Status ◽  
Red List ◽  
Historical Records ◽  
Limited Extent ◽  
Current Conservation ◽  
The Third ◽  
Larval Host

The caterpillars of the Southern Swallowtail, Papilio alexanor have been recorded in the vicinity of Trebinje, Bosnia & Herzegovina. This is the first recent observation of this species in the country and the third observation so far. Opopanax chironium is confirmed as the larval host plant in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which was expected due to the recent observations from Croatia. Its status and distribution in the country are still not clear, and further surveys are recommended in order to reconfirm the historical records as well as to assess its current conservation status. Due to the limited extent of its occurrence, we propose to include it in the Red list of fauna of Bosnia & Herzegovina as Vulnerable (VU).

scholarly journals Giant otter Pteronura brasiliensis density and abundance in Llanos Orientales de Colombia in the Orinoco basin

Oryx ◽  
2020 ◽  
pp. 1-4
Author(s):  
Germán Garrote ◽  
Beyker Castañeda ◽  
Jose Manuel Escobar ◽  
Laura Pérez ◽  
Brayan Marín ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
South America ◽  
Population Size ◽  
20Th Century ◽  
Conservation Status ◽  
Species Conservation ◽  
Iucn Red List ◽  
Red List ◽  
Recreational Fishing ◽  
Pteronura Brasiliensis ◽  
Direct Counts

Abstract The giant otter Pteronura brasiliensis, categorized as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, was once widely distributed throughout South America. By the middle of the 20th century the giant otter had become locally extinct along the main rivers of the Orinoco basin. Although some populations seem to have recovered, the paucity of information available does not permit a full evaluation of the species' conservation status. The objective of this study was to estimate the abundance and density of the giant otter population along the Orinoco river in the municipality of Puerto Carreño, Vichada, Colombia, where there is important commercial and recreational fishing. Thirty-nine linear km were surveyed, repeatedly, with a total of 315 km of surveys. Population size was estimated by direct counts of individuals. All individuals detected were photographed and identified individually from their throat pelage patterns. In total, 30 otters were identified, giving a minimum density of 0.77 individuals per km, one of the highest reported for the species in Colombia. Given the high density in this well-developed area, our results highlight the importance of this population for the conservation of the species.

scholarly journals The Dessau Grassland Experiment—Impact of Fertilization on Forage Quality and Species Assembly in a Species-Rich Alluvial Meadow

Agriculture ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (4) ◽  
pp. 339
Author(s):  
Sandra Dullau ◽  
Knut Rydgren ◽  
Anita Kirmer ◽  
Urs Georg Jäger ◽  
Maren Helen Meyer ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Nitrogen Fertilization ◽  
Conservation Status ◽  
Forage Quality ◽  
Habitats Directive ◽  
Long Term Experiment ◽  
Phosphorus And Potassium ◽  
Eu Habitats Directive ◽  
Summer Flood ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Species Assembly

Since alluvial meadows of river valleys of the Cnidion dubii are protected by the EU Habitats Directive, reconciling farmers’ demands for forage quality with the objective of maintaining them in good conservation status is an important issue in grassland research. In a long-term experiment from 2010 to 2018, we investigated the impact of fertilizing on forage quality and species assembly on a species-rich and twice-mown alluvial grassland in the Dessau Elbe floodplain (Germany). The experiment was composed of an unfertilized control, PK, N60, N60PK and N120PK applications. A significant improvement in forage quality was achieved by nitrogen fertilization only for crude protein, with higher feeding requirements for sheep met only in individual years. The legume cycle was inhibited by the application of nitrogen and high grass cover was maintained, but not increased, at the highest nitrogen application after an exceptional summer flood. The target forbs persisted in numbers over the study period in all treatments. For cover, the low-competitive target forbs responded neutrally to nitrogen fertilization, whereas detrimental effects were demonstrated for the competitive ones. Thus, we recommend not applying more than 60 kg year−1 of nitrogen and only in combination with phosphorus and potassium.

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