Non-invasive monitoring for population assessments of a critically endangered Neotropical primate

Da Cruz Kaizer, M

Abstract

The northern muriqui (Brachyteles hypoxanthus), is a Critically Endangered primate endemic to the Atlantic Forest of Brazil. Remnant populations of muriquis suffer from a wide range of
anthropogenic pressures and face a high risk of extinction due to demographic and environmental stochasticity. Despite the conservation status of the species and its urgent need for management and conservation based on scientific evidence, some muriqui populations are poorly studied and/or remain neglected due to the difficulties of applying traditional survey methods. Therefore, in this thesis, I assessed and provided population and genetic data of a muriqui population based in a previously unstudied site using remote sensing and molecular methods. I evaluated the use of canopy camera traps as an effective tool to detect and for a population assessment of non-habituated groups of muriqui and other arboreal primates (Callithrix flaviceps and Sapajus nigritus) in remote areas, demonstrating the applicability of the method for Neotropical primate surveys and conservation. Noninvasive genetic sampling allowed for a complementary population assessment in northern muriqui and provided information regarding the genetic diversity of the species in comparison to neighbouring populations. Overall, my studies demonstrated the potential and the effectiveness of an integrative approach based on non-invasive methods to advance our knowledge regarding a neglected and poorly studied population of muriquis, including recently discovered groups. The information provided here strengthens the potential of
implementing non-invasive techniques for the assessment and monitoring of Neotropical primates in remote and difficult to reach areas, with the ultimate goal of informing management decisions and promoting species conservation.

Citation

Da Cruz Kaizer, M. Non-invasive monitoring for population assessments of a critically endangered Neotropical primate. (Thesis). University of Salford

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Feb 12, 2020
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 12, 2020
• Additional Information: Funders : Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES); Projects : 99999.001298/2015-01; Grant Number: BEX1298/2015-01
• Award Date: Jan 1, 2019