Ecological diversity, community structure and conservation of Niger Delta mammals

摘要: The Niger Delta (southern Nigeria) is a crucial region for biodiversity because it (i) part of the West African forests hotspot, (ii) under considerable threats habitat devastations, and (iii) minor centre endemism many faunal floral groups. In this paper, we analyze communities mammals (excluding bats, shrews murids) occurring in all vegetation zones region, using both original field data (direct sightings live animals, bushmeat market specimens, skins, skulls, bones, tracks, reliable interviews) collected 1996–2015 literature data. We also explore main drivers community structure by suite multivariate (cluster) null models (co-occurrence) analyses, conservation consequences our A total 45 extant species was found; their ecological distribution uneven across zones, with flood forest, marsh forest eastern flank housing more species. Although most were widespread, 33.3 % had narrow preferences. Cluster analysis confirmed that composition similar habitats suspected to derive from pristine forests, mammal assemblages different two sides River axis. endemic rate low (4.44 species), one each Delta. Twenty-one uncertain occur study area, few being extinct (for instance, Choeropsis liberiensis). Co-occurrence excluded competitively structured assembled cluster analyses suggested biogeographic pressures may be important. 24.4 are globally threatened IUCN, Endangered (Pan troglodytes) Critically (Piliocolobus epieni). Flood Eastern Flank represented inhabited order preserve Delta, essential carefully conserve patches, but barrier island still house highly populations.