A model assessing the conservation threats to freshwater turtles of Sub-Saharan Africa predicts urgent need for continental conservation planning

摘要: Global assessment of conservation threats to several taxonomic groups are urgently needed for species living in regions the world where field research is curtailed by logistic or economic constraints. For instance, it now widely recognized that freshwater turtles represent one most endangered vertebrates world. This situation has been particularly evident with Asian species. Although Sub-Saharan Africa exposed very similar (e.g., intense hunting food and traditional medicine, habitat loss, collection pet trade, etc.), there no comparable concern international community simply because African still too poorly known. Here, I propose a model analyzing threat levels test this taking into consideration series six risk variables distribution ecology. Each variable was categorized five ranks (0–4) increasing survival risk. The results, although preliminary, show great sensitivity strongly contrasts fact apart from Malagasy endemics few currently considered as threatened according IUCN lists. There were clear differences among-families major threats. Softshell especially their large body size makes them good source native populations. single podocnemidid also vulnerable, sensitive human domestic consumption. Concerning Pelomedusidae, highly rarity. They affected combination (Extent Africa, Habitat breadth, Habits, Likeliness direct/indirect persecution, vulnerability). implications these results discussed.