scholarly journals Fruiting Species Influence the Seasonal Use of the Habitat by Sloth Bear in and around Balaram Ambaji Wildlife Sanctuary, Gujarat, India

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 183-190
Author(s):  
Tana P. MEWADA ◽  
Umeshkumar L. TIWARI ◽  
Amit KOTIA

Sloth bear populations in India are threatened, and the ecology and distribution of the species occurring in the region's protected areas are known, but there is no scientific basis underlying management strategies for sloth bear. We used bear indirect and opportunistic direct signs like feeding site, scats, foot print trails, claw marks on climbing trees, to study habitat use and distribution of sloth bear (Melurus ursinus) across Balaram Ambaji Wildlife Sanctuary and Danta Reserve Forest, Gujarat, India from April, 2010 to January 2011. We survey 40 grids (5 × 5 km) 3 km signs survey = 120 km × 3 = 360 km and total 766 bear signs were recorded, and for vegetation we surveyed 40 grids × 2 km vegetation transect = 80 km were sampled. A total of nine (9) vegetation types were recorded and the bear sign where crossed check with the vegetation forest type. Fruits appear to be a key resource for sloth bears, and factors affecting fruit abundance or seasonality will affect bear foraging as well as the humans to depend on such fruits as a food common resource. Knowledge of this relationship will allow managers to be more proactive in managing bears. We recommend using sign surveys for monitoring changes in sloth bear presence, as they are inexpensive, efficient, and can be conducted by trained rangers.

2013 ◽  
Vol 31 (4) ◽  
pp. 823-832 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. Derakhshan ◽  
J. Gherekhloo

Specific knowledge about the dormancy, germination, and emergence patterns of weed species aids the development of integrated management strategies. Laboratory studies were conducted to determine the effect of several environmental factors on seed germination and seedling emergence of Cyperus difformis. Germination of freshly harvested seeds was inhibited by darkness; however, when seeds were subsequently transferred to complete light they germinated readily. Our results showed that 2 wk of cold stratification overcome the light requirement for germination. Seeds of C. difformis were able to germinate over a broad range of temperatures (25/15, 30/20, 35/25, and 40/30 ºC day/night). The response of germination rate to temperature was described as a non-linear function. Based on model outputs, the base, the optimum and the ceiling temperatures were estimated as 14.81, 37.72 and 45 ºC, respectively. A temperature of 120 ºC for a 5 min was required to inhibit 50% of maximum germination. The osmotic potential and salinity required for 50% inhibition of maximum germination were -0.47 MPa and 135.57 mM, respectively. High percentage of seed germination (89%) was observed at pH=6 and decreased to 12% at alkaline medium (pH 9) pH. Seeds sown on the soil surface gave the greatest percentage of seedling emergence, and no seedlings emerged from seeds buried in soil at depths of 1 cm.


2020 ◽  
Vol 13 (1) ◽  
pp. 127
Author(s):  
Jay Mar D. Quevedo ◽  
Yuta Uchiyama ◽  
Kevin Muhamad Lukman ◽  
Ryo Kohsaka

Blue carbon ecosystem (BCE) initiatives in the Coral Triangle Region (CTR) are increasing due to their amplified recognition in mitigating global climate change. Although transdisciplinary approaches in the “blue carbon” discourse and collaborative actions are gaining momentum in the international and national arenas, more work is still needed at the local level. The study pursues how BCE initiatives permeate through the local communities in the Philippines and Indonesia, as part of CTR. Using perception surveys, the coastal residents from Busuanga, Philippines, and Karimunjawa, Indonesia were interviewed on their awareness, utilization, perceived threats, and management strategies for BCEs. Potential factors affecting residents’ perceptions were explored using multivariate regression and correlation analyses. Also, a comparative analysis was done to determine distinctions and commonalities in perceptions as influenced by site-specific scenarios. Results show that, despite respondents presenting relatively high awareness of BCE services, levels of utilization are low with 42.9–92.9% and 23.4–85.1% respondents in Busuanga and Karimunjawa, respectively, not directly utilizing BCE resources. Regression analysis showed that respondents’ occupation significantly influenced their utilization rate and observed opposite correlations in Busuanga (positive) and Karimunjawa (negative). Perceived threats are found to be driven by personal experiences—occurrence of natural disasters in Busuanga whereas discerned anthropogenic activities (i.e., land-use conversion) in Karimunjawa. Meanwhile, recognized management strategies are influenced by the strong presence of relevant agencies like non-government and people’s organizations in Busuanga and the local government in Karimunjawa. These results can be translated as useful metrics in contextualizing and/or enhancing BCE management plans specifically in strategizing advocacy campaigns and engagement of local stakeholders across the CTR.


2020 ◽  
Vol 89 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Santi Saraphol ◽  
Srunya Vajrodaya ◽  
Ekaphan Kraichak ◽  
Anchalee Sirikhachornkit ◽  
Nuttha Sanevas

This study addressed the environmental factors that affect <em>Trentepohlia</em> spp. in the Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary at altitudes of 399 to 1,503 meters above sea level (m a.s.l.) during the rainy, winter, and summer seasons. Species were identified using characteristic morphological identification. The influence of environmental factors on the algae was analyzed using a statistical program, and seasonal changes in the quantity of photosynthetic pigments in the dominant species were evaluated. The average relative humidity was 69.34 ± 12.90%, the average temperature was 26.23 ± 3.79 °C, and the average light intensity was 139.78 ± 42.21 µmol photon m<sup data-id="superscript-1">−2</sup> s<sup data-id="superscript-2">−1</sup>. Thirteen species were found: <em>Trentepohlia chapmanii</em>, <em>Trentepohlia</em> sp. 1, <em>Trentepohlia</em> sp. 2, <em>Trentepohlia sundarbanensis</em>, <em>Trentepohlia</em> sp. 3, <em>Trentepohlia rigidula</em>, <em>Trentepohlia</em> sp. 4, <em>Trentepohlia effusa</em>, <em>Trentepohlia monilia</em>, <em>Trentepohlia abietina</em>, <em>Trentepohlia</em> sp. 5, <em>Trentepohlia aurea</em>, and <em>Trentepohlia umbrina</em>. The largest number of species (seven to nine) were found at lower altitudes, from 473 to 517 m a.s.l. Species diversity was greatest in the winter season (13 species). Species found at low attitude were grouped together (Group 1) and had the greatest diversity, and the remaining species were divided into Groups 2, 3, and 4. Environmental factors had both positive and negative influences on the species, especially <em>T. chapmanii</em>, which was found below 1,003 m a.s.l., and <em>T. monilia</em>, which was found in areas with a high relative humidity of 74.50% to 83.93%. The ratio of the total carotenoids to chlorophyll of <em>T. rigidula</em>, the dominant species, was relatively high at 4.96:1, and the β-carotene content (46.89 %w/w) was highest during winter.


2016 ◽  
Vol 25 (3) ◽  
pp. e080 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dolores Agúndez Leal ◽  
Soumana Douma ◽  
Javier Madrigal ◽  
Almudena Gómez-Ramos ◽  
Barbara Vicenti ◽  
...  

Aim of study: Indigenous woody species play an important role as a complement on the diet of rural populations in Niger, especially in periods of food scarcity. However, these species are nowadays overexploited and management programmes are necessary to conserve them. In order to design a conservation programme for edible woody species, this paper presents a sociological analysis about the use of edible woody species and their products during shortage periods in Niger.Area of study: Four villages in two distinct agro-ecological regions were selected to conduct structured enquiries based on focus group discussions and surveys with key informants.Material and Methods: Perceptions of the conservation status of these species were identified; as well the factors affecting food values, perceptions, management and collection practices.Main results: Results show that B. senegalensis was a staple food in the driest areas, and M. crassifolia was used for fodder and human consumption in the most critical situations. The local communities related the drivers of species conservation status specific to the agro-ecological regions, and gender and ethnic differences were also identified.Research highlights: Understanding these factors constitutes a first step towards adaptive management strategies for the conservation of woody food species in rural communities of Niger.Keywords: Africa; biodiversity; cultural preferences; food; NTFPs.


2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (13) ◽  
pp. 20033-20055
Author(s):  
Naveen Babu Kanda ◽  
Kurian Ayushi ◽  
Vincy K. Wilson ◽  
Narayanan Ayyappan ◽  
Narayanaswamy Parthasarathy

Documenting the biodiversity of protected areas and reserve forests is important to researchers, academicians and forest departments in their efforts to establish policies to protect regional biodiversity. Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary (SWS) is an important protected area located in the central Western Ghats of Karnataka state known for its diverse flora and fauna with distinct ecological features. For the last four decades the sanctuary has witnessed the loss of forest cover, yet the vegetation in few locations is relatively undisturbed. The current inventory was undertaken during 2019–2020 to provide a checklist of woody species from SWS under-researched earlier. The list comprises 269 species of trees, lianas and shrubs distributed in 207 genera and 68 families. The most diverse families are Fabaceae, Moraceae, Rubiaceae, Rutaceae, Lauraceae, Apocynaceae, Meliaceae, Malvaceae, Phyllanthaceae, and Anacardiaceae, representing 48% of total woody flora. The sanctuary shelters 263 native and six exotic plant species. Thirty-nine species were endemic to the Western Ghats, five species to peninsular India and one species to the Western Ghats and Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Four forest types, i.e., dry deciduous, moist deciduous, semi-evergreen, and evergreen forests, are represented in the sanctuary. Of the total species, only seven occurred in all forest types, while 111 species are exclusive to a single forest type. One-hundred-and-four taxa were assessed for the International Union for Conservation of Nature & Natural Resources (IUCN) Red List. Ten species that fall under Near Threatened, Vulnerable, and Endangered categories were encountered occasionally. The baseline data generated on plant diversity will be useful in highlighting the importance of these forests for species conservation and forest management. Such data form a cornerstone for further research. For instance, to understand the effect of invasive species and human impacts on the diversity of the region. 


Author(s):  
Fang Liu ◽  
◽  
Shuai Liu ◽  

Food security is the foundation of a country's social stability and economic development. This paper compares the global food security with China's food situation, summarizes the main problems of China's food security, and explores the factors that affect China's food security, including the shortage of agricultural land resources, the inability to meet the needs of food production, the rapid growth of food demand, the aggravation of the imbalance of food supply and the threat from the international market. Based on this, the paper puts forward suggestions of relevant policy to ensure national food security, in order to provide a scientific basis for the policy formulation of relevant government departments.


2019 ◽  
Vol 19 (1) ◽  
pp. 34-47
Author(s):  
Jukka Majava ◽  
Harri Haapasalo ◽  
Kirsi Aaltonen

Purpose The “big room” concept and lean philosophy have become increasingly popular in the construction industry. Visual control is a central part of lean philosophy and the big room concept; its aim is to improve information flow, joint problem-solving and real-time decision-making. Visual control facilitates effective project management by providing information on what work is performed and why, customer requirements, deadlines, work status and potential problems. This study aims to explore how visualisation supports project management and control in a big room and the factors that facilitate good visual control. Design/methodology/approach This research is based on the case study method, and the objective is to elaborate the current understanding of factors that affect visual control. The study includes a literature review and an empirical study of a large construction project. Findings The results indicate that many factors facilitate visual control. Despite the importance of facilities and tools, communication and teamwork are identified as the key factors. On a broader level, the results indicate a need for a holistic approach in developing visual management strategies and practices in the construction industry and in complex projects in particular. Research limitations/implications A single case may not be able to offer a generalised picture of this complex topic. However, the study provides novel insights for practitioners and researchers interested in the development of visual control and big rooms. Future research topics are also proposed. Originality/value While previous studies have identified many elements of successful big room implementation – including integration and early involvement, information sharing, tools and facilities – this study focusses specifically on the factors that facilitate visual control.


Author(s):  
Reyon Dcunha ◽  
Reda S. Hussein ◽  
Hanumappa Ananda ◽  
Sandhya Kumari ◽  
Satish Kumar Adiga ◽  
...  

AbstractSpermatozoon is a motile cell with a special ability to travel through the woman’s reproductive tract and fertilize an oocyte. To reach and penetrate the oocyte, spermatozoa should possess progressive motility. Therefore, motility is an important parameter during both natural and assisted conception. The global trend of progressive reduction in the number and motility of healthy spermatozoa in the ejaculate is associated with increased risk of infertility. Therefore, developing approaches for maintaining or enhancing human sperm motility has been an important area of investigation. In this review we discuss the physiology of sperm, molecular pathways regulating sperm motility, risk factors affecting sperm motility, and the role of sperm motility in fertility outcomes. In addition, we discuss various pharmacological agents and biomolecules that can enhance sperm motility in vitro and in vivo conditions to improve assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. This article opens dialogs to help toxicologists, clinicians, andrologists, and embryologists in understanding the mechanism of factors influencing sperm motility and various management strategies to improve treatment outcomes.


2001 ◽  
Vol 10 (4) ◽  
pp. 267 ◽  
Author(s):  
Susan G. Conard ◽  
Timothy Hartzell ◽  
Michael W. Hilbruner ◽  
G. Thomas Zimmerman

This paper was presented at the conference ‘Integrating spatial technologies and ecological principles for a new age in fire management’, Boise, Idaho, USA, June 1999 ‘The earth, born in fire, baptized by lightning since before life&quot;s beginning, has been and is a fire planet.’ E.V. Komarek Attitudes and policies concerning wildland fire, fire use, and fire management have changed greatly since early European settlers arrived in North America. Active suppression of wildfires accelerated early in the 20th Century, and areas burned dropped dramatically. In recent years, burned areas and cost of fires have begun to increase, in part due to fuel buildups resulting from fire suppression. The importance of fire as an ecosystem process is also being increasingly recognized. These factors are leading to changes in Federal agency fire and fuels management policies, including increased emphasis on use of prescribed fire and other treatments to reduce fuel loads and fire hazard. Changing fire management strategies have highlighted the need for better information and improved risk analysis techniques for setting regional and national priorities, and for monitoring and evaluating the ecological, economic, and social effects and tradeoffs of fuel management treatments and wildfires. The US Department of Interior and USDA Forest Service began the Joint Fire Science Program in 1998 to provide a sound scientific basis for implementing and evaluating fuel management activities. Development of remote sensing and GIS tools will play a key role in enabling land managers to evaluate hazards, monitor changes, and reduce risks to the environment and the public from wildland fires.


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