Potential effects of prescribed savannah burning on the diet selection of forest buffalo (Syncerus caffer nanus) in Lopé National Park, Gabon

摘要: Seasonality and management are factors that may affect the diet selection of forest buffalo (Syncerus caffer nanus). Fire is considered a major driving force in savannah systems prescribed burning commonly applied conservation tool protected areas such as Lope National Park, Gabon. Prescribed annual fires contribute to maintenance open provide high-quality forage for buffalo, herbivore park. We used microhistological faecal analysis determine measured extent variation between dry season, preburn wet postburn sampling period. The comprised mainly monocotyledons, primarily grasses (Poaceae) sedges (Cyperaceae). Intake open-area-associated plant species was higher treatment period (97%) than (87%), which corresponded conversely reduction forest-associated Marantaceae plants (10% versus 1%). High proportions signify importance buffalo. Controlled play key role meta-population