Search

Size composition gives an overall estimate of the prevalent length of individuals in the fish stock and, hence, the stock's health. The present study analyzed the size-composition and population structure of Golden Mahseer, Tor putitora in the river Nayar that form their breeding and nursery grounds. The Nayar is located in the critical stretch of Devpryaag and Rishikesh (Garhwal Himalaya), free of any dam/barrage in the river Ganga. The Nayar basin is undergoing rapid land use changes due to increased mining and fellow land formations. This analysis was based on length frequency analysis data obtained from three sampling stations, S1, S2, and S3, in the Nayar River. The highest length frequency (53.3%) of Mahseer was recorded from the size class ranging between 10-20 cm, like earlier records, while only one individual measuring 121.9cm was procured. The length frequency decreases with increasing size beyond 30cm. In contrast to the past, the present study revealed a comparatively distorted population structure in the Nayar, where the pre-reproductive size groups showed dominance over the reproductive population. The reduced spawning biomass could jeopardize the recruitment of the next generation.

The Spitsbergen population of bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus) was harvested to near extinction during the whaling era. Here, we show possible signs of recovery of the population by reporting observations of two calves in the Scoresby Sund polynya in East Greenland on 2 and 4 May 2022, and it is the first observation of this kind in this area since the early 1900s.

The Spitsbergen population of bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus) was harvested to near extinction during the whaling era. Here, we show possible signs of recovery of the population by reporting observations of two calves in the Scoresby Sund polynya in East Greenland on 2 and 4 May 2022, and it is the first observation of this kind in this area since the early 1900s.

The longhorn beetle Plagionotus detritus is associated with newly dead oak wood and is declining throughout its distribution range. In Sweden, P.detritus has displayed one of the most dramatic reductions in distribution recorded for insect species and is near regional extinction. As a result of logging, agricultural intensification, fire, land clearing, droughts, competition with invasive plants, edge effects, disease, insect attacks, and air pollution, the availability of substrate as well as the species has declined. Today there are only two current populations in Sweden, a stable one in Stockholm, Stockholm County, and one in Båtfors, Uppsala County (ca 130 km distance) which has been reintroduced after going extinct in the past. Data over available substrate and trapping, and data over landcover type at the two sites, were used to conduct a model selection to find the best-fitted model to predict caught beetles per day. Data over available substrate was taken from this study’s fieldwork and fieldwork conducted by the County Administrative Board. Trapping data were provided through previous pheromone trapping. Data on land cover types were provided by the Swedish Land Survey authority. The results showed that the environment in Stockholm was more suitable than that in Båtfors regarding P.detritus. It also showed that there are, in periods, factors hindering the rejuvenation of oaks due to the deficit of larger rejuvenation trees. Lastly, the results showed that the importance of the surveyed variables (e.g., vitality, sun exposure, basal area) varied between the two sites. This, however, needs to be investigated further with a refined methodological approach. Based on present knowledge, the common underlying factor for the observed differences between the two study sites is divergences in the landscape structure. Stockholm had a higher proportion of land dominated by deciduous species and an overall more open landscape that favored the host tree species Quercus.

The longhorn beetle Plagionotus detritus is associated with newly dead oak wood and is declining throughout its distribution range. In Sweden, P.detritus has displayed one of the most dramatic reductions in distribution recorded for insect species and is near regional extinction. As a result of logging, agricultural intensification, fire, land clearing, droughts, competition with invasive plants, edge effects, disease, insect attacks, and air pollution, the availability of substrate as well as the species has declined. Today there are only two current populations in Sweden, a stable one in Stockholm, Stockholm County, and one in Båtfors, Uppsala County (ca 130 km distance) which has been reintroduced after going extinct in the past. Data over available substrate and trapping, and data over landcover type at the two sites, were used to conduct a model selection to find the best-fitted model to predict caught beetles per day. Data over available substrate was taken from this study’s fieldwork and fieldwork conducted by the County Administrative Board. Trapping data were provided through previous pheromone trapping. Data on land cover types were provided by the Swedish Land Survey authority. The results showed that the environment in Stockholm was more suitable than that in Båtfors regarding P.detritus. It also showed that there are, in periods, factors hindering the rejuvenation of oaks due to the deficit of larger rejuvenation trees. Lastly, the results showed that the importance of the surveyed variables (e.g., vitality, sun exposure, basal area) varied between the two sites. This, however, needs to be investigated further with a refined methodological approach. Based on present knowledge, the common underlying factor for the observed differences between the two study sites is divergences in the landscape structure. Stockholm had a higher proportion of land dominated by deciduous species and an overall more open landscape that favored the host tree species Quercus.

Autochthonous breeds are the pillar of sustainable animal production worldwide. From a total of 8719 livestock breeds, 26 percent are classified as at risk of extinction, 13 percent as not at risk, 6 percent as extinct and 55 percent as being of unknown risk status. Therefore, conservation is of high priority. The Podolian cattle is one of the most endangered breed from the list of native breeds of livestock in Serbia. In 2021 only 338 breeding animals were registered. The breed is known as a precious resource of the local landscape enrichment, national heritage and history. According to the population size of the Podolian cattle, a slight increasing tendency can be evidented. The population size is variable (154 breeding animals in 2009, 252 in 2010, 270 in 2011, 260 in 2012, 264 in 2013, 306 in 2014, 258 in 2015, 263 in 2016, 338 in 2017, 317 in 2018, 357 in 2019, 416 in 2020 and 338 in 2021). The Podolian cattle population in Serbia belongs to the I group (critically endangered). Over the time the governmental subsidies influenced the overall slight increase of the number of breeding animals, but the population size is not stabile. Improved conservation program should be applied to save the autochthonous endangered breed suitable for heritage oriented sustainable production in an authentic environment.

The Mottled duskywing (Erynnis martialis) butterfly is endangered, living in pine forests and oak barrens in Canada and the eastern United States of America. While host plants and larval behaviour is documented in Mottled duskywing’s eastern range, these life components are poorly known in Manitoba. We observed adult behaviour, host plant species used and larval foraging to better understand these biological aspects of E. martialis. We observed eggs laid exclusively on Ceanothus herbaceus, and larvae consuming C. herbaceus in leaf shelters near the periphery of plants. Early instar larvae tied leaves together with cells of silk creating partly open shelters while later instar larvae completely sealed shelters. Shelters constructed out of young leaves at the edge of plants are likely easier to digest. Later-instar larvae may nocturnally harvest food to consume in shelters during the day to reduce predation risk. Larvae were found in clearings adjacent to Pinus banksiana dominated forests, with these openings likely providing suitable microhabitats for egg development and larval feeding. We observed newly emerged adults during weeks 1 to 5 of the flight period; eggs, larvae and adults overlapped. We recommend direct observations of larval foraging—during the day and night, as well as transitions into and out of diapause—to more accurately describe their behaviour and physiology. We started to characterise microhabitats, however further research is needed. Our research may help to guide critical habitat designations, leading to successful Mottled duskywing recovery in Manitoba.

Autochthonous breeds are the pillar of sustainable animal production worldwide. From a total of 8719 livestock breeds, 26 percent are classified as at risk of extinction, 13 percent as not at risk, 6 percent as extinct and 55 percent as being of unknown risk status. Therefore, conservation is of high priority. The Podolian cattle is one of the most endangered breed from the list of native breeds of livestock in Serbia. In 2021 only 338 breeding animals were registered. The breed is known as a precious resource of the local landscape enrichment, national heritage and history. According to the population size of the Podolian cattle, a slight increasing tendency can be evidented. The population size is variable (154 breeding animals in 2009, 252 in 2010, 270 in 2011, 260 in 2012, 264 in 2013, 306 in 2014, 258 in 2015, 263 in 2016, 338 in 2017, 317 in 2018, 357 in 2019, 416 in 2020 and 338 in 2021). The Podolian cattle population in Serbia belongs to the I group (critically endangered). Over the time the governmental subsidies influenced the overall slight increase of the number of breeding animals, but the population size is not stabile. Improved conservation program should be applied to save the autochthonous endangered breed suitable for heritage oriented sustainable production in an authentic environment.

A pot experiment was conducted at Horticultural Research Station, Kahikuchi, Guwahati, to study the effect of different sizes of plants on vegetative growth and flower production of Phaius tankervilleae. Five different plants with varying sizes and numbers of pseudo bulb were adopted as treatments which were replicated 4 times. The flowers bloom from April and the experiment shows T3 produces the maximum number of spikes (2.38) per plant and earliest spike initiation (250.77) days while T5 produces the least number of spikes (0.5) plants and took longest days for spike initiation with (255.13) days. Meanwhile, T1 produce more new pseudo bulbs (4.0) and the least number was seen in T5 with (2.14). But T5 plants produced the biggest new pseudo bulbs (2.85cm diameter). Irrespective of the numbers of the pseudo bulb, plants with bigger pseudo bulb produced a bigger plant, long spike, more spike, bigger and more number of flowers which are a superior trait for a good quality cut flower. Beyond the production of flowers, this experiment further promotes the multiplication of pseudo bulbs, which are necessary for increasing the population of the plants for restoring and conserving the plant population without further exploitation.

A pot experiment was conducted at Horticultural Research Station, Kahikuchi, Guwahati, to study the effect of different sizes of plants on vegetative growth and flower production of Phaius tankervilleae. Five different plants with varying sizes and numbers of pseudo bulb were adopted as treatments which were replicated 4 times. The flowers bloom from April and the experiment shows T3 produces the maximum number of spikes (2.38) per plant and earliest spike initiation (250.77) days while T5 produces the least number of spikes (0.5) plants and took longest days for spike initiation with (255.13) days. Meanwhile, T1 produce more new pseudo bulbs (4.0) and the least number was seen in T5 with (2.14). But T5 plants produced the biggest new pseudo bulbs (2.85cm diameter). Irrespective of the numbers of the pseudo bulb, plants with bigger pseudo bulb produced a bigger plant, long spike, more spike, bigger and more number of flowers which are a superior trait for a good quality cut flower. Beyond the production of flowers, this experiment further promotes the multiplication of pseudo bulbs, which are necessary for increasing the population of the plants for restoring and conserving the plant population without further exploitation.

A pot experiment was conducted at Horticultural Research Station, Kahikuchi, Guwahati, to study the effect of different sizes of plants on vegetative growth and flower production of Phaius tankervilleae. Five different plants with varying sizes and numbers of pseudo bulb were adopted as treatments which were replicated 4 times. The flowers bloom from April and the experiment shows T3 produces the maximum number of spikes (2.38) per plant and earliest spike initiation (250.77) days while T5 produces the least number of spikes (0.5) plants and took longest days for spike initiation with (255.13) days. Meanwhile, T1 produce more new pseudo bulbs (4.0) and the least number was seen in T5 with (2.14). But T5 plants produced the biggest new pseudo bulbs (2.85cm diameter). Irrespective of the numbers of the pseudo bulb, plants with bigger pseudo bulb produced a bigger plant, long spike, more spike, bigger and more number of flowers which are a superior trait for a good quality cut flower. Beyond the production of flowers, this experiment further promotes the multiplication of pseudo bulbs, which are necessary for increasing the population of the plants for restoring and conserving the plant population without further exploitation.

A pot experiment was conducted at Horticultural Research Station, Kahikuchi, Guwahati, to study the effect of different sizes of plants on vegetative growth and flower production of Phaius tankervilleae. Five different plants with varying sizes and numbers of pseudo bulb were adopted as treatments which were replicated 4 times. The flowers bloom from April and the experiment shows T3 produces the maximum number of spikes (2.38) per plant and earliest spike initiation (250.77) days while T5 produces the least number of spikes (0.5) plants and took longest days for spike initiation with (255.13) days. Meanwhile, T1 produce more new pseudo bulbs (4.0) and the least number was seen in T5 with (2.14). But T5 plants produced the biggest new pseudo bulbs (2.85cm diameter). Irrespective of the numbers of the pseudo bulb, plants with bigger pseudo bulb produced a bigger plant, long spike, more spike, bigger and more number of flowers which are a superior trait for a good quality cut flower. Beyond the production of flowers, this experiment further promotes the multiplication of pseudo bulbs, which are necessary for increasing the population of the plants for restoring and conserving the plant population without further exploitation.

Wildlife is held in public trust, and the public plays an important role in management and conservation as voters, advocates and beneficiaries of the many services and enjoyment that wildlife provides. But understanding wildlife issues, conservation and management decisions can be challenging given the often complex science around wildlife ecology and diverse public perspectives. That is why careful and accurate reporting around wildlife and environmental topics is imperative and a requirement of a well-informed electorate. This master’s portfolio is a collection of extensively reported stories around wildlife issues that are designed to be accessible to general readers to fulfill that societal requirement. The theme of this portfolio explores novel techniques being used in the conservation of endangered and threatened species in the U.S. I reported on how managers in the Eastern Sierra are working to save an endangered subspecies of bighorn sheep by capturing and relocating mountain lions away from the sheep the big cats prey upon. I covered the development of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service’s proposal to use rodenticide to eradicate invasive mice on the Farallon Islands off the coast of San Francisco and the implications for the endangered ashy storm-petrels. Lastly, I took viewers behind the scenes and into the lives of researchers studying elusive wolverines, fishers and threatened Canada lynx in Montana. Throughout the work on all my portfolio stories, I encountered sources hesitant to speak about their work for fear of it being portrayed inaccurately to the public. This is an unfortunate problem that I believe can be ameliorated through increased quality of coverage around these environmental topics. Wildlife management can be complex and telling stories about this kind of work can be challenging and yet equally rewarding when it is done well. Sound reporting offers the chance to provide the public with the necessary framework for understanding iss

Numerous island species have gone extinct and many extant, but threatened, island endemics require ongoing monitoring of their conservation status. The small tree Vachellia anegadensis was formerly thought to occur only on the limestone island of Anegada in the British Virgin Islands and was categorized as Critically Endangered. However, in 2008 it was discovered on the volcanic island of Fallen Jerusalem, c. 35 km from Anegada, and in 2018 it was recategorized as Endangered. To inform conservation interventions, we examined the species' distribution, genetic population structure, dependency on pollinators and preferred habitat, and documented any threats. We found V. anegadensis to be locally widespread on Anegada but uncommon on Fallen Jerusalem and established that geographical location does not predict genetic differentiation amongst populations. Vachellia anegadensis produces the highest number of seed pods when visited by animal pollinators, in particular Lepidoptera. Introduced animals and disturbance by humans appear to be the main threats to V. anegadensis, and in situ conservation is critical for the species' long-term survival.

Numerous island species have gone extinct and many extant, but threatened, island endemics require ongoing monitoring of their conservation status. The small tree Vachellia anegadensis was formerly thought to occur only on the limestone island of Anegada in the British Virgin Islands and was categorized as Critically Endangered. However, in 2008 it was discovered on the volcanic island of Fallen Jerusalem, c. 35 km from Anegada, and in 2018 it was recategorized as Endangered. To inform conservation interventions, we examined the species' distribution, genetic population structure, dependency on pollinators and preferred habitat, and documented any threats. We found V. anegadensis to be locally widespread on Anegada but uncommon on Fallen Jerusalem and established that geographical location does not predict genetic differentiation amongst populations. Vachellia anegadensis produces the highest number of seed pods when visited by animal pollinators, in particular Lepidoptera. Introduced animals and disturbance by humans appear to be the main threats to V. anegadensis, and in situ conservation is critical for the species' long-term survival.

The auditory biology of Monachinae seals is poorly understood. Limited audiometric data and certain anatomical features suggest that these seals may have reduced sensitivity to airborne sounds compared to related species. Here, we describe the in-air hearing abilities of a Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi) trained to participate in a psychophysical paradigm. We report absolute (unmasked) thresholds for narrowband signals measured in quiet conditions across the range of hearing and masked thresholds measured in the presence of octave-band noise at two frequencies. The behavioral audiogram indicates a functional hearing range from 0.1 to 33 kHz and poor sensitivity, with detection thresholds above 40 dB re 20 µPa. Critical ratio measurements are elevated compared to those of other seals. The apparently reduced terrestrial hearing ability of this individual-considered with available auditory data for a northern elephant seal (Mirounga angustirostris)-suggests that hearing in Monachinae seals differs from that of the highly sensitive Phocinae seals. Exploration of phylogenetic relationships and anatomical traits support this claim. This work advances understanding of the evolution of hearing in amphibious marine mammals and provides updated information that can be used for management and conservation of endangered Hawaiian monk seals.

This paper deals with karayala, a folk theatrical form of Himachal Pradesh. This form is basically a ritual, performed in the name of a local deity called Biju/Bijeshwar. It is a night long ritual consisting of minimum three and maximum four episodes (swaangs) and each one is followed by a musical interlude comprising singing and dancing. Karyala is an impromptu theatrical form. There are no women actors and only men play female roles. Surprisingly, till date women are not allowed to play female roles. It deals with range of themes and most of them aim at reforming society by employing techniques like mimicry, caricature, satire, paradox, pun and word play. The paper seeks to introduce karayala to larger audience. In the crisis of the present context and particularly owing to onslaught of media multiplicity, we have lost karayala’s past as none for a long while cared to document it due to urbanization, people’s indifference and media charged environment that has threatened its existence. At present it is alive in people’s memory and is necessitated by rituals to avert divine wrath; nevertheless, its space stands largely invaded by media today. The future of this folk theatrical form seems bleak unless we take effective measures to revive/ retrieve it.

Wild chimpanzee populations in West Africa (Pan troglodytes verus) have dramatically decreased as a direct consequence of anthropogenic activities and infectious diseases. Little information is currently available on the epidemiology, pathogenic significance, and zoonotic potential of protist species in wild chimpanzees. This study investigates the occurrence and genetic diversity of intestinal and blood protists as well as filariae in faecal samples (n = 234) from wild chimpanzees in the Dindefelo Community Nature Reserve, Senegal. PCR‐based results revealed the presence of intestinal potential pathogens (Sarcocystis spp.: 11.5%; Giardia duodenalis: 2.1%; Cryptosporidium hominis: 0.9%), protist of uncertain pathogenicity (Blastocystis sp.: 5.6%), and commensal species (Entamoeba dispar: 18.4%; Troglodytella abrassarti: 5.6%). Entamoeba histolytica, Enterocytozoon bieneusi, and Balantioides coli were undetected. Blood protists including Plasmodium malariae (0.4%), Trypanosoma brucei (1.3%), and Mansonella perstans (9.8%) were also identified. Sanger sequencing analyses revealed host‐adapted genetic variants within Blastocystis, but other parasitic pathogens (C. hominis, P. malariae, T. brucei, M. perstans) have zoonotic potential, suggesting that cross‐species transmission between wild chimpanzees and humans is possible in areas where both species overlap. Additionally, we explored potential interactions between intestinal/blood protist species and seasonality and climate variables. Chimpanzees seem to play a more complex role on the epidemiology of pathogenic and commensal protist and nematode species than initially anticipated.

Language is the way of communication and used in different aspects of life. In every country there is a national language which is the state language used in offices and different organizations. Bengali is the state and widely spoken language of Bangladesh however language varies from community to community, race to race, society to society This study shows that there are many indigenous languages in Bangladesh which may be endangered in future specially in the Sylhet area of Bangladesh. The Manipuri language which is not used officially in Bangladesh may be one such language. It has its own alphabets and is spoken in the community. The language has however not been hampered due to COVID 19 and in fact has become more popular during the lockdown. Due to the increase in the popularity of social media (face book group, Cheik Kheik) the Manipuri language in Sylhet, still maintains their ethnic culture and use their language in the home domain.

Wild chimpanzee populations in West Africa (Pan troglodytes verus) have dramatically decreased as a direct consequence of anthropogenic activities and infectious diseases. Little information is currently available on the epidemiology, pathogenic significance, and zoonotic potential of protist species in wild chimpanzees. This study investigates the occurrence and genetic diversity of intestinal and blood protists as well as filariae in faecal samples (n = 234) from wild chimpanzees in the Dindefelo Community Nature Reserve, Senegal. PCR‐based results revealed the presence of intestinal potential pathogens (Sarcocystis spp.: 11.5%; Giardia duodenalis: 2.1%; Cryptosporidium hominis: 0.9%), protist of uncertain pathogenicity (Blastocystis sp.: 5.6%), and commensal species (Entamoeba dispar: 18.4%; Troglodytella abrassarti: 5.6%). Entamoeba histolytica, Enterocytozoon bieneusi, and Balantioides coli were undetected. Blood protists including Plasmodium malariae (0.4%), Trypanosoma brucei (1.3%), and Mansonella perstans (9.8%) were also identified. Sanger sequencing analyses revealed host‐adapted genetic variants within Blastocystis, but other parasitic pathogens (C. hominis, P. malariae, T. brucei, M. perstans) have zoonotic potential, suggesting that cross‐species transmission between wild chimpanzees and humans is possible in areas where both species overlap. Additionally, we explored potential interactions between intestinal/blood protist species and seasonality and climate variables. Chimpanzees seem to play a more complex role on the epidemiology of pathogenic and commensal protist and nematode species than initially anticipated.

© The Author(s), 2020. This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License. The definitive version was published in Arostegui, M. C., Gaube, P., Berumen, M. L., DiGiulian, A., Jones, B. H., Rostad, A., & Braun, C. D. Vertical movements of a pelagic thresher shark (Alopias pelagicus): insights into the species' physiological limitations and trophic ecology in the Red Sea. Endangered Species Research, 43, (2020): 387-394, https://doi.org/10.3354/esr01079., The pelagic thresher shark Alopias pelagicus is an understudied elasmobranch harvested in commercial fisheries of the tropical Indo-Pacific. The species is endangered, overexploited throughout much of its range, and has a decreasing population trend. Relatively little is known about its movement ecology, precluding an informed recovery strategy. Here, we report the first results from an individual pelagic thresher shark outfitted with a pop-up satellite archival transmitting (PSAT) tag to assess its movement with respect to the species’ physiology and trophic ecology. A 19 d deployment in the Red Sea revealed that the shark conducted normal diel vertical migration, spending the majority of the day at 200-300 m in the mesopelagic zone and the majority of the night at 50-150 m in the epipelagic zone, with the extent of these movements seemingly not constrained by temperature. In contrast, the depth distribution of the shark relative to the vertical distribution of oxygen suggested that it was avoiding hypoxic conditions below 300 m even though that is where the daytime peak of acoustic backscattering occurs in the Red Sea. Telemetry data also indicated crepuscular and daytime overlap of the shark’s vertical habitat use with distinct scattering layers of small mesopelagic fishes and nighttime overlap with nearly all mesopelagic organisms in the Red Sea as these similarly undergo nightly ascents into epipelagic waters. We identify potential depths and diel periods in which pelagic thresher sharks may be most susceptible to fishery interactions, but more expansive research efforts are needed to inform effective management., This research was funded by a KAUST Center Part-nership Fund award (4107.3 to the Red Sea Research Cen-ter) and KAUST baseline funding (B.H.J. and M.L.B.).M.C.A. and P.G. acknowledge support from NOAA projectNA15OAR4320063. This study was conducted under a pro-tocol approved by the University of Washington’s Institu-tional Animal Care and Use Committee.

© The Author(s), 2020. This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License. The definitive version was published in Arostegui, M. C., Gaube, P., Berumen, M. L., DiGiulian, A., Jones, B. H., Rostad, A., & Braun, C. D. Vertical movements of a pelagic thresher shark (Alopias pelagicus): insights into the species' physiological limitations and trophic ecology in the Red Sea. Endangered Species Research, 43, (2020): 387-394, https://doi.org/10.3354/esr01079., The pelagic thresher shark Alopias pelagicus is an understudied elasmobranch harvested in commercial fisheries of the tropical Indo-Pacific. The species is endangered, overexploited throughout much of its range, and has a decreasing population trend. Relatively little is known about its movement ecology, precluding an informed recovery strategy. Here, we report the first results from an individual pelagic thresher shark outfitted with a pop-up satellite archival transmitting (PSAT) tag to assess its movement with respect to the species’ physiology and trophic ecology. A 19 d deployment in the Red Sea revealed that the shark conducted normal diel vertical migration, spending the majority of the day at 200-300 m in the mesopelagic zone and the majority of the night at 50-150 m in the epipelagic zone, with the extent of these movements seemingly not constrained by temperature. In contrast, the depth distribution of the shark relative to the vertical distribution of oxygen suggested that it was avoiding hypoxic conditions below 300 m even though that is where the daytime peak of acoustic backscattering occurs in the Red Sea. Telemetry data also indicated crepuscular and daytime overlap of the shark’s vertical habitat use with distinct scattering layers of small mesopelagic fishes and nighttime overlap with nearly all mesopelagic organisms in the Red Sea as these similarly undergo nightly ascents into epipelagic waters. We identify potential depths and diel periods in which pelagic thresher sharks may be most susceptible to fishery interactions, but more expansive research efforts are needed to inform effective management., This research was funded by a KAUST Center Part-nership Fund award (4107.3 to the Red Sea Research Cen-ter) and KAUST baseline funding (B.H.J. and M.L.B.).M.C.A. and P.G. acknowledge support from NOAA projectNA15OAR4320063. This study was conducted under a pro-tocol approved by the University of Washington’s Institu-tional Animal Care and Use Committee.

Under § 7 of the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA or the Act),'federal agencies must ensure that actions they authorize, fund, or carry out are" not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any endangered species or threatened species or result in the destruction or adverse modification of habitat of such species." 2 For species with low and declining populations, applying this standard is legally and scientifically difficult. 3 The US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) faced this problem in its recent biological opinion (BiOp) analyzing impacts to threatened Delta smelt from water project operations in the California Delta. FWS concluded the" species' recent abundance trends strongly suggest it is in the midst of demographic collapse," and most recent surveys to locate smelt have failed to find them.'Nevertheless, FWS approved agency actions that will likely increase extinction risk for Delta smelt.

The Javan rhinoceros (Rhinoceros sondaicus) is one of five extant rhinoceros species and among the rarest large mammals on Earth. Once widespread across Southeast Asia, it is now on the verge of extinction, with only one wild population remaining (estimated at ~60 individuals) on the island of Java, Indonesia. To assess the past genetic diversity of the female lineage of R. sondaicus, we generated mitochondrial genome data from eight museum specimens dating back to the 19th century, before the range of the Javan rhinoceros was dramatically reduced, for comparison against mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences of current R. sondaicus and other rhinoceros species. We succeeded in reconstructing five full and three partial ancient mitogenomes from the eight samples. We used BEAST to assess the phylogenetic relationship of the five extant rhinoceros species and the historical samples. The results show that the oldest and most diverse mtDNA lineages of R. sondaicus are found in historical samples, indicating a significant reduction of mtDNA diversity in modern Javan rhinos. We anticipate that the newly sequenced data will represent a useful resource for improving our understanding of evolutionary history of this species, should future studies be able to increase the available dataset. We hope this information may help in conservation efforts for this species.

Argyranthemum thalassophilum, Asparagus nesiotes subsp. nesiotes and Euphorbia anachoreta are three threatened taxa that are endemic to the Selvagens Islands, a very isolated archipelago of small islands in the Atlantic Ocean. As a part of a conservation project for the three taxa, we conducted fieldwork that included detailed censuses and identification of threatening factors, which ultimately allowed the assessment of their IUCN Red List status. The three species should be categorized as Endangered under the criterion D, as for all the cases there are fewer than 250 mature individuals (79, 119, and 58 for Argyranthemum thalassophilum, Asparagus nesiotes subsp. nesiotes and Euphorbia anachoreta, respectively). In spite of the fact that A. thalassophilum does not show the lowest census size, this taxon should be regarded as the most threatened because it is the only one showing no regeneration (i.e. a total lack of seedings and/or juveniles).

The Javan rhinoceros (Rhinoceros sondaicus) is one of five extant rhinoceros species and among the rarest large mammals on Earth. Once widespread across Southeast Asia, it is now on the verge of extinction, with only one wild population remaining (estimated at ~60 individuals) on the island of Java, Indonesia. To assess the past genetic diversity of the female lineage of R. sondaicus, we generated mitochondrial genome data from eight museum specimens dating back to the 19th century, before the range of the Javan rhinoceros was dramatically reduced, for comparison against mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences of current R. sondaicus and other rhinoceros species. We succeeded in reconstructing five full and three partial ancient mitogenomes from the eight samples. We used BEAST to assess the phylogenetic relationship of the five extant rhinoceros species and the historical samples. The results show that the oldest and most diverse mtDNA lineages of R. sondaicus are found in historical samples, indicating a significant reduction of mtDNA diversity in modern Javan rhinos. We anticipate that the newly sequenced data will represent a useful resource for improving our understanding of evolutionary history of this species, should future studies be able to increase the available dataset. We hope this information may help in conservation efforts for this species.

Biodiversity conservation requires efficient methods to be integrated into environmental management planning. The Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) approach has been recently developed for identifying sites of greatest conservation importance. They are regarded as priorities for management intervention and for identifying investment priorities. While the KBA approach has been extensively used to identify locations of high biodiversity significance in the terrestrial realm, this methodology is scarcely known by stakeholders in marine jurisdictions. Identification of a network of KBA sites should be regarded as a high priority in diverse and isolated areas, such as oceanic islands. In the Canary Islands (NE Atlantic Ocean), a number of KBA sites are here identified across the archipelago using irreplaceability and vulnerability criteria to safeguard populations of threatened marine species. If global standards associated with the IUCN Red List are considered, only nesting beaches and regular feeding grounds of sea turtles (Caretta caretta and Chelonia mydas) qualify as KBAs. However, this approach overlooks most of the biodiversity hotspots in the Canary archipelago that include representative ecosystems of volcanic islands (e.g. marine caves) or habitats with high conservation importance in terms of productivity, regional rarity and diversity (e.g. seagrass meadows and maërl seabeds), as well as presence of locally threatened species.

Lowland Leadbeater’s possums are on a trajectory to extinction, with fewer than 40 individuals surviving in the wild. Quantification of the vegetation characteristics of their occupied habitat is urgently needed to inform strategies to conserve this genetically distinct population. We surveyed the canopy and midstorey vegetation at all remaining (nine) occupied territories and eleven abandoned territories in lowland swamp forest at the Yellingbo Nature Conservation Reserve. For each territory we quantified canopy and midstorey stem density, basal area (total and live) and vegetation condition (percentage live basal area, tree crown vigour and plant area index) within a 50-m radius of known den locations. The canopy at all locations was dominated by mountain swamp gum (Eucalyptus camphora), with most occupied sites supporting dense midstorey dominated by paperbarks, either Melaleuca squarrosa or Melaleuca ericifolia. Occupied territories had higher stem densities and better vegetation condition than abandoned territories. Stem density alone was able to predict occupancy vis-à-vis abandoned sites with a high (80%) degree of accuracy. Lowland Leadbeater’s possums occupy swamp forests characterised by high stem density, particularly in the midstorey, structural complexity and healthy vegetation. These findings can help guide habitat restoration and translocation projects currently underway to expand the area of lowland habitat for this critically endangered species.

Giraffe populations have declined in abundance by almost 40% over the last three decades, and the geographic ranges of the species (previously believed to be one, now defined as four species) have been significantly reduced or altered. With substantial changes in land uses, loss of habitat, declining abundance, translocations, and data gaps, the existing geographic range maps for giraffe need to be updated. We performed a review of existing giraffe range data, including aerial and ground observations of giraffe, existing geographic range maps, and available literature. The information we collected was discussed with and validated by subject‐matter experts. Our updates may serve to correct inaccuracies or omissions in the baseline map, or may reflect actual changes in the distribution of giraffe. Relative to the 2016 International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List Assessment range map, the updated geographic range maps show a 5.6% decline in the range area of all giraffe taxa combined. The ranges of Giraffa camelopardalis (northern giraffe) and Giraffa tippelskirchi (Masai giraffe) decreased in area by 37% (122432 km2) and 4.7% (20816 km2) respectively, whereas 14% (41696 km2) of the range of Giraffa reticulata (reticulated giraffe) had not been included in the original geographic range map and has now been added. The range of Giraffa giraffa (southern giraffe) showed little overall change; it increased by 0.1% (419 km2). Ranges were larger than previously reported in six of the 21 range countries (Botswana, Ethiopia, Mozambique, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe), had declined in seven (Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Malawi, Niger, Uganda, and Zambia) and remained unchanged in seven (Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo, eSwatini, Namibia, Rwanda, Somalia, and South Africa). In Kenya, the ranges of both Giraffa tippelskirchi and Giraffa camelopardalis decreased, but the range of Giraffa reticulata was larger than previously believed. Our updated

Headstarting is a conservation strategy that assumes raising hatchling turtles to larger body sizes increases their survivorship compared to wild non-headstarted turtles. This increased survivorship should increase population growth rate relative to wild recruitment. There are, however, few published results of long-term population recovery using headstarting. The lack of demographic assessment of population recovery has led to an overall lack of quantitative assessment of the effectiveness of headstarting as a conservation action. Headstarting needs to be efficient and effective as a poorly executed headstarting project can result in species extinction given it is often used with critically endangered species. We released 3 cohorts of headstarted Wood Turtles (Glyptemys insculpta) with varying degrees of headstarting to determine if headstarting increases survivorship. I showed that headstarting turtles to a larger body size confers a survival advantage, and this survival advantage should increase population growth rate relative to wild recruitment. I then quantitatively assessed the effectiveness of a 15-year Wood Turtle headstarting program by modeling population-specific demographic parameters to evaluate recovery efforts, and determine the next phase of recovery. I found some evidence of population recovery, but also identified challenges and make several management recommendations that should enhance the success of the headstarting program. Overall, I have provided support for headstarting as an effective conservation strategy, with the caveat that all headstarting projects must be paired with management plans that maintain high adult and juvenile survival.

This report describes the methods and results from the first season (2012 – 2013) of Lupinus nipomensis seed bulking at the CCBER Greenhouse and Nursery facility.

While the number of Aragonese speakers is in steady decline in the rural areas of Spain where it was traditionally spoken, the efforts of grassroots movements since the end of Franco’s dictatorship in 1975 have contributed to create a community of new speakers in Aragon’s largest cities, mostly thanks to courses for adults organized by cultural associations. The capital, Zaragoza, which has been practically monolingual for centuries, after Spanish became the language of power and prestige in the 15th century, is now home to several thousand Aragonese speakers. Despite their growing importance, very little research has been done on the views and experiences of these individuals. Drawing on data from focus groups and interviews, the aim of this thesis is to analyze their language ideologies, motivations, frustrations, political engagements, language use and challenges. Hopefully, this information will be valuable in the design of an effective language policy in the future.

Torwali is a Dardic language spoken by a community of about 80,000--110,000 in the idyllic valleys of upper Swat district in north Pakistan. It is one of the Pakistan’s 28 ‘definitely endangered languages’ as categorized by UNSCO in its Atlas of World’s Languages in Danger. In 2007 a team of community researchers started the work of its ‘documentation and promotion’ by organizing their efforts into a local civil society organization Idara Baraye Taleem-o-Taraqi (IBT) i.e. institute for education and development. Since then the organization has been undertaking a number of revitalization initiatives targeting youth, children and elders. In Pakistan various linguists and organizations have undertaken a number of similar initiatives. But most of these good initiatives are only focused on ‘preservation’ the languages in question. Some of them altogether ignore the importance of ‘revitalization of cultures especially the music’ because many of these language activists found themselves thwarted by their version of the faith because an overwhelming majority in Pakistan now thinks everything through a religious prism. This often makes the whole endeavors of preservation and promotion of these languages limited to research circles only. But the organization Idara Baraye Taleem-o-Taraqi (IBT) has taken a holistic approach for the preservation and revitalization of the endangered language, Torwali. Initially IBT has developed orthography for the language; and based on that it established schools for children in their own language. The curriculum for the kids contains rhymes and poems. Secondly, IBT started a campaign in order to repackage the poetry and music so as to popularize it among all the community members relevant to all ages and genders. In the classic Torwali music there have been two distinct genres of poetry sung on different musical notes. The most popular of them is called ʑo whereas the other, “Phal” is sung on a different note based on the cultural events for w

Torwali is a Dardic language spoken by a community of about 80,000--110,000 in the idyllic valleys of upper Swat district in north Pakistan. It is one of the Pakistan’s 28 ‘definitely endangered languages’ as categorized by UNSCO in its Atlas of World’s Languages in Danger. In 2007 a team of community researchers started the work of its ‘documentation and promotion’ by organizing their efforts into a local civil society organization Idara Baraye Taleem-o-Taraqi (IBT) i.e. institute for education and development. Since then the organization has been undertaking a number of revitalization initiatives targeting youth, children and elders. In Pakistan various linguists and organizations have undertaken a number of similar initiatives. But most of these good initiatives are only focused on ‘preservation’ the languages in question. Some of them altogether ignore the importance of ‘revitalization of cultures especially the music’ because many of these language activists found themselves thwarted by their version of the faith because an overwhelming majority in Pakistan now thinks everything through a religious prism. This often makes the whole endeavors of preservation and promotion of these languages limited to research circles only. But the organization Idara Baraye Taleem-o-Taraqi (IBT) has taken a holistic approach for the preservation and revitalization of the endangered language, Torwali. Initially IBT has developed orthography for the language; and based on that it established schools for children in their own language. The curriculum for the kids contains rhymes and poems. Secondly, IBT started a campaign in order to repackage the poetry and music so as to popularize it among all the community members relevant to all ages and genders. In the classic Torwali music there have been two distinct genres of poetry sung on different musical notes. The most popular of them is called ʑo whereas the other, “Phal” is sung on a different note based on the cultural events for w

While the number of Aragonese speakers is in steady decline in the rural areas of Spain where it was traditionally spoken, the efforts of grassroots movements since the end of Franco’s dictatorship in 1975 have contributed to create a community of new speakers in Aragon’s largest cities, mostly thanks to courses for adults organized by cultural associations. The capital, Zaragoza, which has been practically monolingual for centuries, after Spanish became the language of power and prestige in the 15th century, is now home to several thousand Aragonese speakers. Despite their growing importance, very little research has been done on the views and experiences of these individuals. Drawing on data from focus groups and interviews, the aim of this thesis is to analyze their language ideologies, motivations, frustrations, political engagements, language use and challenges. Hopefully, this information will be valuable in the design of an effective language policy in the future.

Casein proteins were repeatedly examined for protein polymorphisms and frequencies in diverse cattle breeds. The occurrence of casein variants in Holstein Friesian, the leading dairy breed worldwide, is well known. The frequencies of different casein variants in Holstein are likely affected by selection for high milk yield. Compared to Holstein, only little is known about casein variants and their frequencies in German Black Pied cattle (“Deutsches Schwarzbuntes Niederungsrind,” DSN). The DSN population was a main genetic contributor to the current high-yielding Holstein population. The goal of this study was to investigate casein (protein) variants and casein haplotypes in DSN based on the DNA sequence level and to compare these with data from Holstein and other breeds. In the investigated DSN population, we found no variation in the alpha-casein genes CSN1S1 and CSN1S2 and detected only the CSN1S1*B and CSN1S2*A protein variants. For CSN2 and CSN3 genes, non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms leading to three different β and κ protein variants were found, respectively. For β-casein protein variants A1, A2, and I were detected, with CSN2*A1 (82.7%) showing the highest frequency. For κ-casein protein variants A, B, and E were detected in DSN, with the highest frequency of CSN3*A (83.3%). Accordingly, the casein protein haplotype CSN1S1*B-CSN2*A1-CSN1S2*A-CSN3*A (order of genes on BTA6) is the most frequent haplotype in DSN cattle., Peer Reviewed

Headstarting is a conservation strategy that assumes raising hatchling turtles to larger body sizes increases their survivorship compared to wild non-headstarted turtles. This increased survivorship should increase population growth rate relative to wild recruitment. There are, however, few published results of long-term population recovery using headstarting. The lack of demographic assessment of population recovery has led to an overall lack of quantitative assessment of the effectiveness of headstarting as a conservation action. Headstarting needs to be efficient and effective as a poorly executed headstarting project can result in species extinction given it is often used with critically endangered species. We released 3 cohorts of headstarted Wood Turtles (Glyptemys insculpta) with varying degrees of headstarting to determine if headstarting increases survivorship. I showed that headstarting turtles to a larger body size confers a survival advantage, and this survival advantage should increase population growth rate relative to wild recruitment. I then quantitatively assessed the effectiveness of a 15-year Wood Turtle headstarting program by modeling population-specific demographic parameters to evaluate recovery efforts, and determine the next phase of recovery. I found some evidence of population recovery, but also identified challenges and make several management recommendations that should enhance the success of the headstarting program. Overall, I have provided support for headstarting as an effective conservation strategy, with the caveat that all headstarting projects must be paired with management plans that maintain high adult and juvenile survival.

Giraffe populations have declined in abundance by almost 40% over the last three decades, and the geographic ranges of the species (previously believed to be one, now defined as four species) have been significantly reduced or altered. With substantial changes in land uses, loss of habitat, declining abundance, translocations, and data gaps, the existing geographic range maps for giraffe need to be updated. We performed a review of existing giraffe range data, including aerial and ground observations of giraffe, existing geographic range maps, and available literature. The information we collected was discussed with and validated by subject‐matter experts. Our updates may serve to correct inaccuracies or omissions in the baseline map, or may reflect actual changes in the distribution of giraffe. Relative to the 2016 International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List Assessment range map, the updated geographic range maps show a 5.6% decline in the range area of all giraffe taxa combined. The ranges of Giraffa camelopardalis (northern giraffe) and Giraffa tippelskirchi (Masai giraffe) decreased in area by 37% (122432 km2) and 4.7% (20816 km2) respectively, whereas 14% (41696 km2) of the range of Giraffa reticulata (reticulated giraffe) had not been included in the original geographic range map and has now been added. The range of Giraffa giraffa (southern giraffe) showed little overall change; it increased by 0.1% (419 km2). Ranges were larger than previously reported in six of the 21 range countries (Botswana, Ethiopia, Mozambique, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe), had declined in seven (Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Malawi, Niger, Uganda, and Zambia) and remained unchanged in seven (Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo, eSwatini, Namibia, Rwanda, Somalia, and South Africa). In Kenya, the ranges of both Giraffa tippelskirchi and Giraffa camelopardalis decreased, but the range of Giraffa reticulata was larger than previously believed. Our updated

Giraffe populations have declined in abundance by almost 40% over the last three decades, and the geographic ranges of the species (previously believed to be one, now defined as four species) have been significantly reduced or altered. With substantial changes in land uses, loss of habitat, declining abundance, translocations, and data gaps, the existing geographic range maps for giraffe need to be updated. We performed a review of existing giraffe range data, including aerial and ground observations of giraffe, existing geographic range maps, and available literature. The information we collected was discussed with and validated by subject‐matter experts. Our updates may serve to correct inaccuracies or omissions in the baseline map, or may reflect actual changes in the distribution of giraffe. Relative to the 2016 International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List Assessment range map, the updated geographic range maps show a 5.6% decline in the range area of all giraffe taxa combined. The ranges of Giraffa camelopardalis (northern giraffe) and Giraffa tippelskirchi (Masai giraffe) decreased in area by 37% (122432 km2) and 4.7% (20816 km2) respectively, whereas 14% (41696 km2) of the range of Giraffa reticulata (reticulated giraffe) had not been included in the original geographic range map and has now been added. The range of Giraffa giraffa (southern giraffe) showed little overall change; it increased by 0.1% (419 km2). Ranges were larger than previously reported in six of the 21 range countries (Botswana, Ethiopia, Mozambique, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe), had declined in seven (Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Malawi, Niger, Uganda, and Zambia) and remained unchanged in seven (Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo, eSwatini, Namibia, Rwanda, Somalia, and South Africa). In Kenya, the ranges of both Giraffa tippelskirchi and Giraffa camelopardalis decreased, but the range of Giraffa reticulata was larger than previously believed. Our updated

Giraffe populations have declined in abundance by almost 40% over the last three decades, and the geographic ranges of the species (previously believed to be one, now defined as four species) have been significantly reduced or altered. With substantial changes in land uses, loss of habitat, declining abundance, translocations, and data gaps, the existing geographic range maps for giraffe need to be updated. We performed a review of existing giraffe range data, including aerial and ground observations of giraffe, existing geographic range maps, and available literature. The information we collected was discussed with and validated by subject‐matter experts. Our updates may serve to correct inaccuracies or omissions in the baseline map, or may reflect actual changes in the distribution of giraffe. Relative to the 2016 International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List Assessment range map, the updated geographic range maps show a 5.6% decline in the range area of all giraffe taxa combined. The ranges of Giraffa camelopardalis (northern giraffe) and Giraffa tippelskirchi (Masai giraffe) decreased in area by 37% (122432 km2) and 4.7% (20816 km2) respectively, whereas 14% (41696 km2) of the range of Giraffa reticulata (reticulated giraffe) had not been included in the original geographic range map and has now been added. The range of Giraffa giraffa (southern giraffe) showed little overall change; it increased by 0.1% (419 km2). Ranges were larger than previously reported in six of the 21 range countries (Botswana, Ethiopia, Mozambique, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe), had declined in seven (Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Malawi, Niger, Uganda, and Zambia) and remained unchanged in seven (Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo, eSwatini, Namibia, Rwanda, Somalia, and South Africa). In Kenya, the ranges of both Giraffa tippelskirchi and Giraffa camelopardalis decreased, but the range of Giraffa reticulata was larger than previously believed. Our updated

Central Valley spring-run Chinook Salmon (CVSC) are designated threatened by state and federal authorities. Although CVSC are caught in ocean fisheries, their harvest is not actively managed, because it is assumed that measures currently in place to protect endangered Sacramento River winter-run Chinook Salmon (SWRC) will also sufficiently protect CVSC. Recoveries of tags and genetically-identified CVSC suggest these fish have a more northerly distribution than SRWC. Further, escapement data and cohort reconstructions suggest that CVSC mature later than SRWC. Thus, regulations (time/area restrictions and minimum size limits) crafted to protect SRWC alone may not adequately protect CVSC; on the other hand, regulations to constrain impacts on Klamath River and California coastal Chinook Salmon populations may also reduce impacts on CVSC. Trends in CVSC escapement were deemed acceptable in recent status updates, but concerns remain because of the negative effects caused by recent drought and ocean conditions. Should more active management of CVC be desired, current options are limited. The most promising approach is based on estimating age-specific ocean fishing mortality rates by using cohort reconstructions applied to tagged Chinook Salmon that originate from the Feather River Hatchery. At a minimum, ocean fishing mortality rates could be monitored and compared to proxy thresholds. If reference harvest rates were established, harvest models could be developed to predict how CVSC would be affected by fishing regulations, similar to the way fall-run Chinook Salmon fisheries are evaluated. Abundance forecasts would require improved juvenile production data (e.g., from genetic sampling of juvenile emigrants), since sibling-based forecasts commonly used for fall-run Chinook Salmon would not be available in time for pre-season planning. It is unclear if ocean fishing mortality rate estimates derived from hatchery proxies for natural-origin fish are truly representative, bu

This study was conducted to establish baseline data on the terrestrial macrophytes in Camp Higher Ground (CHG), Brgy. San Nicolas, Barotac Viejo, Iloilo. Specifically, this study determined the terrestrial macrophyte level of plant community diversity measured in terms of species richness, species composition, and relative abundance, and determined the conservation status of plant species in the area as a logical step in protecting the threatened species from possible extinction. The assessment was done on September 2017 – January 2018 employing the descriptive survey method. Data were collected from the 1000m2 sampling area composed of 10 quadrants each measuring 10 x 10 m2. There were 123 plant species recorded that belong to 100 genera and 61 families. Results revealed that trees were 56.9%; shrubs, 13.8%; vines, 13.0%; herbs, 7.3%; ferns, 5.7%; and palms, 3.3%. Shannon-Weinner Diversity index for CHG was high (H’=3.867). Thirty-one, 31 (25.2%) macrophytes were categorized threatened. Among these, two were critically endangered: Agboi (Mussaenda philippica L.C. Rich.) and Bugauak morado (Clerodendrum quadriloculare (Blanco) Merr.). The endangered species were Duklitan (Planchonella duclitan (Blco.) Bakh. f.), Bahai (Ormosia calavensis Azaola), and Salingogon (Cratoxylum formosum Benth & Hooker). However, 30 (24.3 %) plant species were considered endemic. During the conduct of the study, some forest clearing, wood harvesting, and minor charcoal-making operations were discovered which posed threats to this natural habitat especially of threatened and endemic macrophytes. Proper conservation program should be implemented by the CHG management to prevent further biodiversity loss.

There are both positive and negative impacts on wildlife associated with wildlife tourism. In Sweden, the endangered Arctic fox is subject to a growing tourist interest. In the Helags mountain region there are guided Arctic fox safari tours that provide visitors with information about the Arctic fox. A survey of five separate groups of visitors in the region revealed that knowledge about the status of Arctic foxes and awareness of the behavioral guidelines for Arctic fox encounters improved after participation in a safari tour and with increasing Arctic fox interaction. We propose a schematic model summarizing the diverse ways in which wildlife tourism affects wildlife and their relative importance for conservation. The Arctic fox population in Sweden is small and sensitive to disturbance, but the positive impacts of Arctic fox tourism seem to compensate for the negative and contribute to their conservation under the current level of tourism pressure.

Oil development has recently increased in the southwestern corner of Manitoba due to a combination of technological adaptation and lower oil prices. This oil production increase has produced an additional impact to an already imperiled landscape, bringing invasive species, contamination and further fragmentation to the southwestern corner of Manitoba. Using a qualitative case study strategy, I found several gaps at the intersection of Manitoba’s habitat protection and oil and gas law and policy. While the province has many habitat conservation policies, there are several issues with the placement of oil and gas activity within the framework, government oversight, private governance, government resources, lack of regional land use planning and cumulative impacts assessment. I ultimately conclude that these gaps stemmed from an overall neoliberal environmental governance model that has predictably, as neoliberal governance does, facilitated short-term economic gains over long-term environmental concerns like species at risk, water quality/quantity and surface habitat protection.

Wildlife in captivity has a long history of benefiting global conservation goals. Captive animals can raise awareness and appreciation for the conservation of endangered species. Additionally, captive animals can be used as source populations to reintroduce animals back to the wild or to supplement existing wild populations. The rapid increase in amphibian species threatened with imminent extinction has necessitated the creation of dozens of captive-breeding programs. The focus of this dissertation has integrated topics across the spectrum of animals in captivity and the wild, and the results provide useful recommendations for conservation action. First, I describe how market pressures over a 28-year period are causing meteoric increases in the prices of amphibians sold in the pet trade, indicating a high risk of overexploitation. Pet amphibians may facilitate greater understanding and appreciation of amphibians, but the pet trade must be sustainable. Improving amphibian husbandry will increase the number of captive-bred animals available in the pet trade, and it will allow greater production of threatened species for reintroductions. Secondly, by performing a systematic review of husbandry for 289 amphibian species native to the US, I identified a critical lack in taxon-specific husbandry and developed husbandry research prioritizations. Next, I used a combination of laboratory and field studies to examine domestication processes in amphibians by comparing defensive behaviors in two species of captive-bred and wild poison frog. Captive-bred amphibians had significantly reduced defensive behaviors compared to wild conspecifics, likely resulting from habitation processes related to their husbandry. Finally, I performed three reintroductions of the critically endangered Wyoming Toad (Anaxyrus baxteri) in Wyoming, US. I demonstrated how providing a transitionary period, called a soft-release, to captive-bred toads moving to a novel, wild environment can improve reintro

This thesis developed for the first time an understanding of the traits, environmental conditions and lifecycle of the critically endangered tree species, Melaleuca irbyana R.T. Baker. M. irbyana's distribution is restricted to the south-west peri-urban fringe of South East Queensland. It forms dense monocultures naturally, providing unique and important habitat for wildlife, which is now a declared critically endangered ecosystem under Australia's EPBC Act 1999. Research findings are aimed at assisting management efforts to ensure the persistence of remaining populations of this species and guiding efforts for more effective revegetation projects.

This study was conducted to establish baseline data on the terrestrial macrophytes in Camp Higher Ground (CHG), Brgy. San Nicolas, Barotac Viejo, Iloilo. Specifically, this study determined the terrestrial macrophyte level of plant community diversity measured in terms of species richness, species composition, and relative abundance, and determined the conservation status of plant species in the area as a logical step in protecting the threatened species from possible extinction. The assessment was done on September 2017 – January 2018 employing the descriptive survey method. Data were collected from the 1000m2 sampling area composed of 10 quadrants each measuring 10 x 10 m2. There were 123 plant species recorded that belong to 100 genera and 61 families. Results revealed that trees were 56.9%; shrubs, 13.8%; vines, 13.0%; herbs, 7.3%; ferns, 5.7%; and palms, 3.3%. Shannon-Weinner Diversity index for CHG was high (H’=3.867). Thirty-one, 31 (25.2%) macrophytes were categorized threatened. Among these, two were critically endangered: Agboi (Mussaenda philippica L.C. Rich.) and Bugauak morado (Clerodendrum quadriloculare (Blanco) Merr.). The endangered species were Duklitan (Planchonella duclitan (Blco.) Bakh. f.), Bahai (Ormosia calavensis Azaola), and Salingogon (Cratoxylum formosum Benth & Hooker). However, 30 (24.3 %) plant species were considered endemic. During the conduct of the study, some forest clearing, wood harvesting, and minor charcoal-making operations were discovered which posed threats to this natural habitat especially of threatened and endemic macrophytes. Proper conservation program should be implemented by the CHG management to prevent further biodiversity loss.

Coryphantha scheeri var. robustispina (Schott) L. Benson, the Pima pineapple cactus, herein referred to as C. scheeri, was declared an endangered species in 1993 and only occurs in a limited range in Arizona, USA and northern Sonora, Mexico between 2,300'-4,500' asl. Development within the range of C. scheeri threatens individuals, but transplanting to conserve them while allowing for development has been considered to be ineffective for conservation due to low post-transplant survival rates in past studies. The construction of a natural gas pipeline provided the opportunity to conduct a transplant experiment on 82 individual C. scheeri transplanted in July and August 2014. The plants were randomized into one of four transplant methods: bare-root with supplemental water, bare-root without supplemental water, soil-and-plant moved with supplemental water, and soil-and-plant moved without supplemental water. Higher than average precipitation occurred during the 2014 monsoon season including after transplanting. A subset of the transplanted C. scheeri (n=17) were transplanted back onto the pipeline after pipeline construction was completed. Survival rates were monitored through December 2016 and compared to undisturbed C. scheeri near the pipeline ROW and those on other sites. For the plants transplanted once, no significant effect of moving the plants with soil compared to no soil (X2 = 2.9, p = 0.09), no significant effect of adding water at the time of transplant compared to not adding water (X2 = 1.2, p = 0.26), and no significant interaction among treatments (X2 = 0.06, p = 0.81) was observed. For plants transplanted twice, a significant effect of moving the plants with the soil compared to no soil (X2 = 5.0, p = 0.02) was found, while due to the random selection of plants to be transplanted twice there was too little data to adequately test other comparisons. There was no significant difference in mortality between the transplanted once (27% mortality) and the tra