Monitoring protocols for the evaluation of the impact of wild boar (Sus scrofa) rooting on plants and animals in forest ecosystems

摘要: The management of wild boar ( Sus scrofa ) is an issue increasing global conservation concern. Statistically robust monitoring protocols, allowing the detection biologically relevant changes in biodiversity indices due to activities, are crucial tools for populations. goal our study was present a procedure targeted towards elaborating protocols evaluation impact rooting on forest plants and animals. We compared two pairs macro-areas characterized by contrasting levels activity. then evaluated effect several parameters four communities: understorey vascular plants, ground invertebrates, Carabid beetles small mammals. found that evenness community significantly higher high-rooting macro-areas. Moreover, diversity were macro-areas, while abundance Etruscan shrew Suncus etruscus low-rooting although these differences only marginally significant. results remaining tests all non-significant. However, confidence intervals measured sizes always included effects; therefore, should be considered inconclusive. magnitude we detected considerably (probably certain degree affecting currently past macro-areas), therefore high sampling effort required detect such subtle differences. Researchers practitioners carefully consider complexity choice investigate since clearly shows some requires substantial investment well-structured priori -planning phase. Failing do so will inevitably lead waste resources /or wrong decisions. Click here access supplementary files Download complete issue.