Archival DNA reveals cryptic biodiversity within the Spotted Shag (Phalacrocorax punctatus) from New Zealand

The Condor ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 121 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nicolas J Rawlence ◽  
Matt J Rayner ◽  
Tim G Lovegrove ◽  
Debbie Stoddart ◽  
Melanie Vermeulen ◽  
...  

Abstract Genetic data are increasingly being used to prioritize species conservation in a fiscally constrained age of seemingly boundless conservation crises. Such data can also reveal previously cryptic biodiversity requiring further revision of conservation management guidelines. Using a combination of mitochondrial (control region) and nuclear (beta fibrinogen intron 7) DNA, and morphology, we reveal that the endemic New Zealand Spotted Shag (Phalacrocorax punctatus) complex exhibits phylogenetic structure that is decoupled from previously recorded qualitative morphological variation. Crucially, the most genetically distinct populations within P. punctatus are from northern New Zealand; recent surveys show that these populations, which house important genetic diversity within Spotted Shags, are in danger of being extirpated. In contrast, we find the previously phenotypically differentiated nominate (P. punctatus punctatus) and Blue (P. punctatus oliveri) Shag subspecies show no genetic and morphological separation, and are of least conservation concern.

2008 ◽  
Vol 14 (2) ◽  
pp. 108
Author(s):  
Emma Moran ◽  
Ross Cullen ◽  
Kenneth F. D. Hughey

Despite the scarcity of funding for species conservation programmes, estimation of the cost of threatened species programmes occurs in only a few countries. This paper examines the reasons for the lack of species programme cost estimates and the likely impacts of this on conservation management. We report methodology used to estimate cost for eleven New Zealand species programmes and their estimated costs over a ten year period. Differences between species in the costs of the programmes and the breakdown of the costs are highlighted. The estimated costs are compared with expected levels of expenditure on each species to illustrate the existence of a budget constraint for threatened species. The likely effects of cost of species conservation exceeding expenditures on species conservation are examined. Annual cost data is used together with information on rate of conservation progress to estimate time and total cost for each species to reach Not Threatened status.


2012 ◽  
Vol 22 (4) ◽  
pp. 429-444 ◽  
Author(s):  
HUGH A. ROBERTSON ◽  
PIM J. M. de MONCHY

SummaryIn late 2000, five sanctuaries were established on the mainland of New Zealand for the express purpose of protecting populations of five kiwi Apteryx spp. taxa belonging to three species. Conservation management was undertaken at a landscape scale (10,000–20,000 ha) in each sanctuary to improve recruitment of kiwi. This was done by controlling introduced mammalian predators (especially stoats Mustela erminea), and/or by removing eggs and chicks from predation risk, and returning subadults when they were big enough to cope with stoats. Population modelling of the first five years of the sanctuary programme indicated that kiwi numbers in all five sanctuaries would increase as a result of the management. Calculated population increases varied from 0.6% per year at Okarito to 11.3% per year at Moehau, even though predator trapping was more intense at Okarito. The variation from site to site was explained by the widely different inherent productivity of the various kiwi taxa; widely different rates of adult mortality due to the presence or absence of dogs Canis familiaris and ferrets M. furo, the main predators of long-lived adult kiwi; and, local forest conditions affecting predator-prey cycles, and the density of stoats. As a result of this analysis, the management in four of the five sanctuaries has since been modified to try to achieve better overall gains for kiwi within the same operating budget.


Shore & Beach ◽  
2020 ◽  
pp. 53-64
Author(s):  
Edward Atkin ◽  
Dan Reineman ◽  
Jesse Reiblich ◽  
David Revell

Surf breaks are finite, valuable, and vulnerable natural resources, that not only influence community and cultural identities, but are a source of revenue and provide a range of health benefits. Despite these values, surf breaks largely lack recognition as coastal resources and therefore the associated management measures required to maintain them. Some countries, especially those endowed with high-quality surf breaks and where the sport of surfing is accepted as mainstream, have recognized the value of surfing resources and have specific policies for their conservation. In Aotearoa New Zealand surf breaks are included within national environmental policy. Aotearoa New Zealand has recently produced Management Guidelines for Surfing Resources (MGSR), which were developed in conjunction with universities, regional authorities, not-for-profit entities, and government agencies. The MGSR provide recommendations for both consenting authorities and those wishing to undertake activities in the coastal marine area, as well as tools and techniques to aid in the management of surfing resources. While the MGSR are firmly aligned with Aotearoa New Zealand’s cultural and legal frameworks, much of their content is applicable to surf breaks worldwide. In the United States, there are several national-level and state-level statutes that are generally relevant to various aspects of surfing resources, but there is no law or policy that directly addresses them. This paper describes the MGSR, considers California’s existing governance frameworks, and examines the potential benefits of adapting and expanding the MGSR in this state.


Author(s):  
Heather Thon ◽  
Amy Krist

Understanding invasive species impacts is critical to determining how an ecosystem may function after an introduction. Invasive species can alter the structure and function of ecosystems, reduce biological diversity, and alter communities through predation, facilitation and competition. In the past 30 years, the invasive New Zealand mud snail (Potamopyrgus antipodarum) has established in areas of conservation concern in the American West including Yellowstone National Park. To develop a greater understanding of the impact of P. antipodarum on the native co-occurring snail, Fossaria (Bakerilymnaea) bulimoides group, we conducted two experiments to assess the interactions occurring between these snails. We found that F. bulimoides growth was reduced by all interactors, but especially by P. antipodarum. In addition, growth of F. bulimoides was much more affected by high biomass of snails than P. antipodarum. P. antipodarum grew more in the presence of interactors and their growth was facilitated by the presence of the native snail F. bulimoides.


The publication of Reintroduction Biology of Australian and New Zealand Fauna nearly 20 years ago introduced the new science of ‘reintroduction biology’. Since then, there have been vast changes in our understanding of the process of reintroductions and other conservation-driven translocations, and corresponding changes in regulatory frameworks governing translocations. Advances in Reintroduction Biology of Australian and New Zealand Fauna is a timely review of our understanding of translocation from an Australasian perspective, ensuring translocation becomes an increasingly effective conservation management strategy in the future. Written by experts, including reintroduction practitioners, researchers and policy makers, the book includes extensive practical advice and example case studies, identifies emerging themes and suggests future directions. Conservation practitioners and researchers, as well as conservation management agencies and NGOs will find the book a valuable resource. Although it is based on Australasian examples, it will be of interest globally due to synergies with reintroduction programs throughout the world. 2015 Whitley Awards Certificate of Commendation for Conservation Biology.


2002 ◽  
Vol 24 (1) ◽  
pp. 85 ◽  
Author(s):  
LJ Boren ◽  
NJ Gemmell ◽  
KJ Barton

Marine mammals are significant tourist attractions around New Zealand, however, the impact of eco-tourism on these species is poorly documented. Effective management to mitigate any negative effects requires an understanding of target species? reactions to tourist activities. We have studied the effects of tourist activities on New Zealand fur seals (Arctocephalus forsteri) using a novel combination of observations and controlled approaches. Three study areas were selected reflecting a range of visitor density, type of tourism, and the anticipated sensitivity of fur seals to disturbance. Behaviour was observed using instantaneous scan sampling and attributes of tourist approaches were tested experimentally by controlled approaches. Approaches were made on land, by kayak, and motorboat. Fur seal responses and the distance at which the seal responded were recorded. Our results indicate that A. forsteri behaviour was being modified by tourist activities. Habituation was occurring at study areas with high levels of tourist activity. Approachers following current minimum approach distances still caused some animals to modify their behaviour and new minimum approach distances are recommended based on controlled approaches to seals at all study areas. Our work demonstrated that controlled approaches can be a useful tool to develop effective management guidelines to lessen impacts from eco-tourism activities.


2018 ◽  
Vol 8 (6) ◽  
pp. 3119-3130 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ana Ramón-Laca ◽  
Daniel J. White ◽  
Jason T. Weir ◽  
Hugh A. Robertson

2016 ◽  
Vol 25 (16) ◽  
pp. 3950-3961 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nicolas J. Rawlence ◽  
Catherine J. Collins ◽  
Christian N. K. Anderson ◽  
Justin J. Maxwell ◽  
Ian W. G. Smith ◽  
...  

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