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The studies were performed in 2013-2022 in limestone mines of the Cricova-Goian area. The bat fauna was represented by 10 species, 9 of which were registered in the Cricova I mines, 4 species in the Cricova II mines, 10 species in the Goianul Nou mines and 2 species in the Goian mines. The Cricova II and Goian mines are new bat sites, found in 2021-2022. In the Cricova I mines, 489 individuals from 9 species were registered during the hibernation period and Myotis daubentonii represented more than half of the bat community. The analysis of multiannual dynamics shows a stable trend of chiropteran species populations. The M. species bechsteinii and Rhinolophus hipposideros with about 10% each. In the Cricova II mines, 4 bat species were registered; the dominant one was M. daubentonii with about 85% and other species had an abundance of less than 8%. In the Goianul Nou mines, 10 species from 4 genera were recorded, but the community structure was different at the end of hibernation period, when 3 species were dominant (over'80%), and in September, when 2 species dominated (about 77%). The Goian mines have a very low depth and only two species with single individuals were registered. The diversity was the highest in Goianul Nou mines, followed by Cricova I mines, being much lower in the Cricova II and Goian mines. All the registered bat species are protected at the national and international level and the Cricova-Goian area is of great importance in animal diversity conservation in the central part of the Republic of Moldova. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The germplasm is a resource and tool for the conservation of genetic diversity in animals, including birds. Securing germplasm is limited in most bird species due to difficulties in semen collection and germ cell isolation, lack of germ cell-specific markers, and in vitro culture systems. Here, we report the production of germline chimeric quails by transplant of cryopreserved testicular cells (TCs) into the developing embryo. The testicular germ cell properties were maintained after freeze-thaw, with no significant reduction in cell viability irrespective of storage length. Cryopreserved TCs were transferred into Hamburger Hamilton (HH) stage 14–17 quail embryos, and were demonstrated to migrate into the embryonic gonads with similar efficiency to freshly isolated TCs. Twenty of 81 recipient embryos yielded hatchlings from cryopreserved TCs and the germline transmission efficiency was similar to that of freshly isolated cells. In conclusion, cryopreserved adult quail TCs are capable of (de)differentiation into functional gametes in recipient quail gonads and can generate donor TCs-derived progenies. This system is feasible for the isolation of sufficient germplasm resources from various bird species for conservation purposes. • Quail testicular cells (TCs) retain germ cell characteristics after cryopreservation. • Cryopreserved TCs can migrate into gonads of developing embryos. • Reversible transplantation of cryopreserved whole TCs resulted in a successful production of germline chimeras. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work was to determine the values of zoometric variables that define the Creole Goat of South Mendoza (Mendoza province, Argentina). Samples were taken at commercial goat farms located in South and North regions and in seven locations of San Rafael and Malargue departments of Mendoza. Eight hundred and thirty five Creole goats were sampled, with ages from two teeth up to tooth cutter, using the method proposed by FAO (2000). The variables studied were Head width (HW), Head length (HL), Height to the end of Neck (HN), Thoracic perimeter (TP), Body length (BL), Rump width (RW); Height to the Rump (HR) and Shank Perimeter (SP). The variables were analyzed using multivariate techniques principal components, discriminants, canonical populations) and clusters based on Euclídeus distances and their graphic representation as dendrograms. The results showed that all variables followed a normal distribution. In turn, uniformity in the variables was found, since Coefficient of Variation was lower than 9% in all cases. The variables that best describe the model were HN, TP, RW, SP and HN, which represent 50% of the total data variability. The dendogram showed two mixed groups where variables of locations of North and South regions were found, finding the smallest eucledian distance among locations of the South region. The Figure of the Analysis of Principal Components showed that dispersion of the variables behaves in an homogeneous way, without generating groups or subpopulations. Variable homogeneity found in this work would allow to assume that the Creole Goats of the South Mendoza would belong to a common genetic stem that would characterize them as members of a defined racial group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Utricularia (Lentibulariaceae) is recognised for the Northern Territory. A description of Utricularia gaagudju R.W.Jobson & Cherry is provided along with a new circumscription for the Western Australian species U. kimberleyensis to which it was previously assigned. Diagnostic features are illustrated, and distribution, habitat, and conservation status are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a general method of estimation has been proposed to estimate the combined effect of measurement error and non-response in the estimation of population mean using auxiliary information in simple random sampling. The expressions of mean square errors of the proposed estimators have been derived under large sampling approximation. Mean squared errors of the proposed class of estimators have been compared with the existing corresponding estimators based on the measurement error and non-response, and are found to be more efficient. It is also shown that the estimators envisaged by others are a particular member of the proposed class of estimators. In the end, a simulation study has been carried out to verify the superiority of the proposed estimators. Both theoretical and empirical findings are encouraging and support the soundness of the present study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the loss of biodiversity accelerating, conservation translocations such as reintroductions are becoming an increasingly common conservation tool. Conservation translocations must source individuals for release from either wild or captive‐bred populations. We asked what proportion of North American conservation translocations rely on captive breeding and to what extent zoos and aquaria (hereafter zoos) fulfill captive breeding needs. We searched for mention of captive breeding and zoo involvement in all 1863 articles included in the North American Conservation Translocations database, which comprises journal articles and grey literature published before 2014 on conservation translocations in Canada, the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America before 2014 as identified by a comprehensive literature review. Conservation translocations involved captive breeding for 162 (58%) of the 279 animal species translocated. Fifty‐four zoos contributed animals for release. The 40 species of animals bred for release by zoos represented only 14% of all animal species for which conservation translocations were published and only 25% of all animal species that were bred for releases occurring in North America. Zoo contributions varied by taxon, ranging from zoo‐bred animals released in 42% of amphibian conservation translocations to zero contributions for marine invertebrates. Proportional involvement of zoos in captive‐breeding programs for release has increased from 1974 to 2014 (r = 0.325, p = 0.0313) as has the proportion of translocation‐focused scientific papers coauthored by zoo professionals (from 0% in 1974 to 42% in 2013). Although zoos also contribute to conservation translocations through education, funding, and professional expertise, increasing the contribution of animals for release in responsible conservation translocation programs presents a future conservation need and opportunity. We especially encourage increased dialogue and planning between the zoo community, academic institutions, and governments to optimize the direct contribution zoos can make to wildlife conservation through conservation translocations. Article impact statement: Zoos contribute animals to 14% of published North American animal conservation translocations and 25% of linked captive breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Selecting animals for breeding in the optimum way plays an essential role for the management of genetic resources and in selective breeding of livestock species. It requires to compute the optimum genetic contribution of each selection candidate to the next generation. Current software packages for optimum contribution selection (OCS) are not able to handle the main conflicting objectives of animal breeding programs simultaneously, which includes to increase genetic gain, to increase or to maintain genetic diversity, to recover the original genetic background of endangered breeds with historic introgression, and to maintain or increase genetic diversity at native alleles. Results: The free R package optiSel offers functions for estimating the above mentioned parameters from pedigree and marker data, and for solving OCS problems. One parameter can be optimized, whereas the remaining ones can be constrained. The results reveal the optimum numbers of offspring of all selection candidates, and can subsequently be used for mate allocation. Different solvers can be used. Solver slsqp was superior when the genetic diversity at native alleles was to be maximized, whereas solvers cccp and cccp2 were superior for all other OCS problems. Conclusion: Optimum contribution selection applied to local breeds requires special attention due to the conflicting objectives of their breeding programs. The free R package optiSel is an easy-to-use software taking these conflicting objectives into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Mammalian taxonomy based on the diagnosability version of the Phylogenetic Species Concept – considered as an operational manifestation of the Evolutionary Species Concept - offers a sound and verifiable base for understanding mammalian classification. There is now strong evidence that a taxonomy dominated by the Biological Synthesis (overlumped) has had deleterious effects on biodiversity conservation, while examples of its benefits remain obscure. It is interesting to note that when dealing with important issues (such as human health) the choice of taxonomy is necessarily analysis-based. In this reply to Zachos (2018), it is emphasized that we should avoid encouraging mistrust in taxonomy that can have negative consequences for taxonomists and taxonomic infrastructures. It is reinstated that while discussion over species concepts is fully legitimate, no doubt taxonomy is crucial to effective monitoring and conservation of mammal biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Owing to the broad use of camera traps, integration and standardization among camera trap studies has become key to maximizing their utility for local and global biodiversity conservation. Our goal was to introduce the use of a hierarchical modelling framework in the context of coordinated biodiversity monitoring to compare species richness and occupancy by integrating camera trap data from multiple study areas. Location: Southwest China. Methods: We used hierarchical occupancy models to integrate camera trap data for elusive mammal and pheasant communities from three study areas representing different habitat types: alpine and subalpine zones, dry‐hot valleys and subtropical montane forests. We evaluate the responses of species occurrence to human influence and habitat parameters based on a Bayesian approach. Results: We captured photographs of 23 mammal and 7 pheasant species over 10,095 trap nights. The model revealed that the alpine and subalpine zones supported the highest species richness of the target communities among the three habitat types. Surprisingly, dry‐hot valleys supported similar levels of species richness to subtropical montane forest. Species richness showed a similar bell‐shaped relationship with elevation, with the richness curve peaking at intermediate elevations at about 3500 m above sea level (asl). Posterior distributions for community‐level hyper‐parameters indicated the consistent and negative effects of human disturbance on species occupancy. The community model also revealed a strong quadratic relationship between elevation and occupancy, with the highest occupancy occurring at about 3700 m asl. Main conclusion: Using hierarchical occupancy models for integrating camera trap data from multiple study areas, we show that alpine/subalpine zone and dry‐hot valleys have the highest richness and should be given more priority for conservation of biodiversity in southwest China. We recommend broader application of the hierarchical occupancy modelling approach to camera trap data to obtain more comprehensive insights relevant to regional biodiversity conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: To augment mammal conservation in the Eastern Himalayan region, we assessed the resident 255 terrestrial mammal species and identified the 50 most threatened species based on conservation status, endemism, range size, and evolutionary distinctiveness. By using the spatial analysis package letsR and the complementarity core‐area method in the conservation planning software Zonation, we assessed the current efficacy of their protection and identified priority conservation areas by comparing protected areas (PAs), land cover, and global ecoregion 2017 maps at a 100 × 100 m spatial scale. The 50 species that were most threatened, geographically restricted, and evolutionarily distinct faced a greater extinction risk than globally nonthreatened and wide‐ranging species and species with several close relatives. Small, medium‐sized, and data‐deficient species faced extinction from inadequate protection in PAs relative to wide‐ranging charismatic species. There was a mismatch between current PA distribution and priority areas for conservation of the 50 most endangered species. To protect these species, the skewed regional PA distribution would require expansion. Where possible, new PAs and transboundary reserves in the 35 priority areas we identified should be established. There are adequate remaining natural areas in which to expand current Eastern Himalayan PAs. Consolidation and expansion of PAs in the EH requires strengthening national and regional transboundary collaboration, formulating comprehensive regional land‐use plans, diversifying conservation funding, and enhancing information sharing through a consolidated regional database. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Stopping declines in biodiversity is critically important, but it is only a first step toward achieving more ambitious conservation goals. The absence of an objective and practical definition of species recovery that is applicable across taxonomic groups leads to inconsistent targets in recovery plans and frustrates reporting and maximization of conservation impact. We devised a framework for comprehensively assessing species recovery and conservation success. We propose a definition of a fully recovered species that emphasizes viability, ecological functionality, and representation; and use counterfactual approaches to quantify degree of recovery. This allowed us to calculate a set of 4 conservation metrics that demonstrate impacts of conservation efforts to date (conservation legacy); identify dependence of a species on conservation actions (conservation dependence); quantify expected gains resulting from conservation action in the medium term (conservation gain); and specify requirements to achieve maximum plausible recovery over the long term (recovery potential). These metrics can incentivize the establishment and achievement of ambitious conservation targets. We illustrate their use by applying the framework to a vertebrate, an invertebrate, and a woody and an herbaceous plant. Our approach is a preliminary framework for an International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Green List of Species, which was mandated by a resolution of IUCN members in 2012. Although there are several challenges in applying our proposed framework to a wide range of species, we believe its further development, implementation, and integration with the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species will help catalyze a positive and ambitious vision for conservation that will drive sustained conservation action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The effectiveness of biodiversity conservation projects is influenced by socio‐political context, a reality overlooked by traditional prioritization schemes that use only measures of biological value and threat when deciding where to invest limited conservation resources. We combined ecological and socio‐political criteria to illuminate options for prioritizing investment in African wild dog Lycaon pictus conservation among countries and subpopulations. Countries and subpopulations were assigned scores for conservation priority (based on their wild dog populations) and conservation likelihood (based on their governance quality and other indicators of the likelihood of effective conservation action for wild dogs). Seven of the 19 wild dog countries scored above the median value for both priority and likelihood and supported 74% of the total wild dog population. Investment in these ‘higher priority, higher likelihood’ countries may offer the greatest returns on conservation investment. The intention of this study is not, however, to be prescriptive, nor to suggest abandoning disadvantaged countries, but to provide a tool for understanding and managing trade‐offs between where conservation is most needed for wild dogs and where it is most feasible. The prioritization framework presented in this paper may easily and profitably be applied to other taxa, extending the scope of our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a long time, Chinese people have been considered to be concerned only with commercial interests but not ecological systems and biodiversity conservation, even though their trade and investment footprints are globalizing rapidly. This study intended to reveal the non-market valuation on the non-use value of African elephant to Chinese people. Taking the ban of ivory trade as the background, in this study, Chinese netizens' willingness to pay for African elephant conservation was investigated using the contingent valuation method. Four versions of questionnaires were designed and distinguished by offering different background information and payment vehicles (tax and donation). It was demonstrated that the differences in both given information and payment vehicles had no significant impacts on the estimated mean willingness to pay value. 53.36% of the respondents gave positive responses for the hypothetical projects of African elephant protection. The mean willingness to pay was 83.62 RMB (12.59 USD) and 158.58 RMB (23.88 USD) per year per household and the aggregated willingness to pay or benefits for the protection of African elephants from Chinese netizens were estimated to be 16.31 billion RMB (2.45 billion USD) and 30.92 billion RMB (4.65 billion USD) per year after grouping regression and benefit transfer adjustments, respectively. The current research shows that Chinese people, living thousands kilometers away from Africa, have a high public awareness for and valuation to the endangered elephants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The Italian biodiversity is among the richest in Europe. In particular, the Italian butterfly fauna includes almost 300 native species, and within the Euro‐Mediterranean area is second in species richness only to Turkey. Italy, however, has suffered from the lack of suitable instruments to evaluate the extinction risk of individual butterfly species on the basis of internationally recognised standards. We have been working to create the first Italian Red List for butterflies. The achievement of this goal was divided into three actions: (i) the institution of a network of experts on butterfly conservation; (ii) the evaluation of the extinction risk for all Italian butterfly species; (iii) the integration of the baseline information provided by the Italian Red Lists of other taxa crucial for future evaluations of biodiversity trends in Italy. Assessments of extinction risks were based on the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria following their most updated guidelines and were discussed during workshops involving experts from different Italian regions. All native Italian butterflies were included in the evaluation. The whole national population of each species was evaluated, including those on large and small islands. Of 289 butterfly species assessed, one has become Regionally Extinct recently. Threatened species are 18 in total, corresponding to 6.3% of the species assessed. The majority of Italian butterfly populations are stable. The main threats to Italian butterflies are natural reforestation, as a consequence of rural land abandonment, agricultural intensification and climate change for species living at high altitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fifteen species of many-plumed moths are recorded from the Mount Cameroon area, SW Cameroon, West Africa. Nine species: Alucita longipenis Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., A. lidiya Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., A. ludmila Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., A. escobari Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., A. mischenini Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., A. fokami Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., A. janeceki Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., A. besongi Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., and A. olga Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., are described as new for science. Four species are recorded as new from Cameroon: A. acalyptra, A. chloracta, A. coffeina, and A. spicifera. By these records, the Mount Cameroon area has become the richest known Afrotropical locality for the Alucitidae, highlighting its tremendous value for biodiversity conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Despite progress in recent decades, the conservation management of insects and allied invertebrates in Australia is challenging and remains a formidable task against a background of poor taxonomic and biological knowledge, limited resources (funds and scientific expertise) and a relatively low level of community engagement, education and awareness. In this review, we propose a new, strategic national approach for the conservation of insects and allied invertebrates in Australia to complement and build on existing actions and increase awareness with the general public and government. A review of all species listed under relevant State and Territory Acts, national legislation (EPBC Act) and on international lists (IUCN Red List) indicated that of the 285 species currently listed under these conservation schedules, 10 (3%) are considered extinct, 204 (72%) threatened (Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable) and 71 (25%) are classified as other (Threatened, Near Threatened, Rare or Least Concern). Comparison of the geographic ranges of listed species in relation to bioregions (IBRA regions) shows a striking discordance in spatial representation across the Australian landscape, reflecting an ad hoc approach to threatened species conservation and the concentration of invertebrate biologists in urban centres of temperate coastal Australia. There is a positive relationship between the number of threatened species and extent of protection according to the National Reserve System within each IBRA region, exemplifying the anomaly in spatial representativeness of listed species. To overcome these shortfalls, we propose a novel educational, regional approach based on selecting, for each of the 89 IBRA regions, a relatively small set of ‘flagship taxa’ (threatened species and/or ‘iconic’ species of high scientific/social value), which are then promoted and/or nominated for listing by the scientific community. Such species could be adopted by local community groups whereby a community‐based regional approach would ensure spatial representativeness of insect conservation across the entire Australian continent. This novel approach may ultimately provide a better strategy for the conservation management of habitats and threatened ecological communities, reducing extinction risk of threatened species and addressing key threatening processes. Members of the Australian entomological community are strongly encouraged to nominate candidate taxa as flagship species for wider promotion and/or listing nationally under the EPBC Act. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantitative ecological data needs to inform management of the endangered, endemic Sri Lankan leopard. Estimating habitat-specific leopard density and prey availability provides important baselines and improved understanding of the island-wide population. We used remote cameras in a spatially explicit capture-recapture framework to estimate leopard density (11.7 adult individuals/100 km2) and distance sampling to estimate prey density, within Horton Plains National Park. Sambar density was 178/km2 within the central grasslands, which represent a spatially anchored resource for sambar and in turn, a highly clumped, abundant resource for leopards. This study represents the first robust estimate of leopard density in Sri Lanka’s montane zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ten new species within four genera of Microgastrinae parasitoid wasps (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) are described from Canada and United States: Diolcogaster ichiroi, Diolcogaster miamensis, Glyptapanteles pseudotsugae, Microgaster archboldensis, Microgaster syntopic, Microplitis altissimus, Microplitis jorgeluisi, Microplitis juanmanueli, Microplitis julioalbertoi, and Microplitis mariamargaritae. The new taxa are significant because they represent the first North American records of a tropical group (species of the basimacula group in Diolcogaster), exemplify interesting ecological cases (niche-based host selection in Glyptapanteles, syntopic species in Microgaster), and showcase unique morphological features and/or altitudinal records (Microplitis). Most of the new species were collected in protected areas or areas with strong research programs (Archbold Biological Station and hammock forests near Miami, Florida; Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, and Mount Evans Wilderness Area, Colorado; Sapelo Island, Georgia; Tonto National Forest, Arizona), and thus are also of value and interest for conservation and research efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the Project "animal Biodiversity Monitoring in the alpine Environment" the Orthoptera fauna has been studied in a threeyear period (2013-2015). The first check-list of the protected area, with ecological and biogeographical notes, is presented. We found 40 species (16 Ensifera, 24 Caelifera), corresponding to 11% of the Italian Orthoptera fauna. a geographic differentiation in species distribution among the three areas (alto adige - BZ, Trentino - TN and Lombardy - BS and SO) has been detected. The genus Barbitistes is represented by B. serricauda in alto adige and B. alpinus in Trentino and Lombardy. Kisella irena is restricted to Peio and Rabbi Valleys only, in connection with this species distribution in Trentino. Within the Park, Euthystira brachyptera is distributed only in Lombardy, despite its habitat is apparently extensively available also in Trentino and alto adige. We found Omocestus haemorrhoidalis and Chorthippus vagans only in Val Venosta (BZ). Only two species, previously reported for the study area, has not been detected during our surveys: Celes variabilis and Ruspolia nitidula. The first site of presence of Tettigonia caudata, rare in Italy, within the Park boundaries has been discovered near Martello (BZ). Two endangered taxa of high conservation value, Epacromius tergestinus ponticus and Crysochraon dispar, reported in the last Century just outside the Park boundaries, are probably extinct today due to habitat loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International guidelines recommend the integration of local communities within protected areas management as a means to improve conservation efforts. However, local management plans rarely consider communities knowledge about wildlife and their traditions to promote biodiversity conservation. In the Sebitoli area of Kibale National Park, Uganda, the contact of local communities with wildlife has been strictly limited at least since the establishment of the park in 1993. The park has not develop programs, outside of touristic sites, to promote local traditions, knowledge, and beliefs in order to link neighboring community members to nature. To investigate such links, we used a combination of semidirected interviews and participative observations (N= 31) with three communities. While human and wildlife territories are legally disjointed, results show that traditional wildlife and spiritual related knowledge trespasses them and the contact with nature is maintained though practice, culture, and imagination. More than 66% of the people we interviewed have wild animals as totems, and continue to use plants to medicate, cook, or build. Five spirits structure humanwildlife relationships at specific sacred sites. However, this knowledge varies as a function of the location of local communities and the sacred sites. A better integration of local wildlifefriendly knowledge into management plans may revive communities' connectedness to nature, motivate conservation behaviors, and promote biodiversity conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Black-and-gold howler monkeys Alouatta caraya, are arboreal primates, inhabitants of Neotropical forests, highly susceptible to the yellow fever virus, considered early 'sentinels' of outbreaks, and thus, of major epidemiological importance. Currently, anthropogenic habitat loss and modifications threatens their survival. Habitat modification can prevent, reduce or change dispersal behavior, which, in turn, may influence patterns of gene flow. We explored past and contemporary levels of genetic diversity, elucidated genetic structure and identified its possible drivers, in ten populations (n = 138) located in the southernmost distribution range of the species in South America, in Argentina and Paraguay. Overall, genetic variability was moderate (ten microsatellites: 3.16 ± 0.18 alleles per locus, allelic richness of 2.93 ± 0.81, 0.443±0.025 unbiased expected heterozygosity; 22 haplotypes of 491-bp mitochondrial Control Region, haplotypic diversity of 0.930 ± 0.11, and nucleotide diversity of0.01± 0.007). Significant evidence of inbreeding was found in a population that was, later, decimated by yellow fever. Population-based gene flow measures (FST = 0.13; θST = 018), hierarchical analysis of molecular variance and Bayesian clustering methods revealed significant genetic structure, grouping individuals into four clusters. Shared haplotypes and lack of mitochondrial differentiation (non-significant θST) among some populations seem to support the hypothesis of historical dispersal via riparian forests. Current resistance analyses revealed a significant role of landscape features in modeling contemporary gene flow: continuous forest and riparian forests could promote genetic exchange, whereas disturbed forests or crop/grassland fields may restrict it. Estimates of effective population size allow anticipating that the studied populations will lose 75% of heterozygosity in less than 50 generations. Our findings suggest that anthropogenic modifications on native forests, increasingly ongoing in Northeastern Argentina, Southern Paraguay and Southeastern Brazil, might prevent the dispersal of howlers, leading to population isolation. To ensure long-term viability and maintain genetic connectivity of A. caraya remnant populations, we recommend preserving and restoring habitat continuity. To conserve the species genetic pool, as well, the four genetic clusters identified here should be considered separate Management Units and given high conservation priority. In light of our findings and considering complementary non-genetic information, we suggest upgrading the international conservation status of A. caraya to “Vulnerable”. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Riparian areas are biologically rich ecosystems, but they are highly threatened across the globe. Invertebrates represent a large proportion of the animal diversity within riparian areas, perform various ecological functions, and serve as bioenergetic links between aquatic and riparian food webs. Although many studies have been done on riparian taxa, this is the first synthesis of invertebrate ecology in riparian areas. We first discuss five characteristics of riparian zones that may support specialist riparian invertebrates: high rates of disturbance, elevated nutrient and water availability, increased vegetation and microhabitat diversity, strong microclimate gradients, and unique food resources. We then review how these mechanisms change with distance from the stream (lateral gradients) and position within a catchment (longitudinal gradients) and the resulting effects on the riparian community. Finally, we highlight gaps in our current knowledge and offer suggestions for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We undertook a comprehensive, critical review of literature concerning the distribution, conservation status, and taxonomy of species of mammals endemic to the Cerrado and the Caatinga, the two largest biomes of the South American Dry-Diagonal. We present species accounts and lists of species, which we built with criteria that, in our opinion, yielded results with increased scientific rigor relative to previously published lists - e.g., excluding nominal taxa whose statuses as species have been claimed only on the basis of unpublished data, incomplete taxonomic work, or weak evidence. For various taxa, we provided arguments regarding species distributions, conservation and taxonomic statuses previously lacking in the literature. Two major findings are worth highlighting. First, we unveil the existence of a group of species endemic to both the Cerrado and the Caatinga (i.e., present in both biomes and absent in all other biomes). From the biogeographic point of view, this group, herein referred to as Caatinga-Cerrado endemics, deserves attention as a unit - just as in case of the Caatinga-only and the Cerrado-only endemics. We present preliminary hypotheses on the origin of these three endemic faunas (Cerrado-only, Caatingaonly, and Caatinga-Cerrado endemics). Secondly, we discovered that a substantial portion of the endemic mammalian faunas of the Caatinga and the Cerrado faces risks of extinction that are unrecognized in the highly influential Red List of Threatened Species published by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). "Data deficient" is a category that misrepresents the real risks of extinction of these species considering that (a) some of these species are known only from a handful of specimens collected in a single or a few localities long ago; (b) the Cerrado and the Caatinga have been sufficiently sampled to guarantee collection of additional specimens of these species if they were abundant; (c) natural habitats of the Cerrado and the Caatinga have been substantially altered or lost in recent decades. Failures either in the design of the IUCN criteria or in their application to assign categories of extinction risks represent an additional important threat to these endemic faunas because their real risks of extinctions become hidden. It is imperative to correct this situation, particularly considering that these species are associated to habitats that are experiencing fast transformation into areas for agriculture, at an unbearable cost for biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A detailed description of the larvae of Baetis (Baetis) cypronyx sp. n., a representative of the Baetis alpinus species-group within the mayfly family Baetidae, is provided, including a differential diagnosis with regard to closely related species of the group, especially Baetis melanonyx (Pictet, 1843) and B. baroukianus Thomas & Dia, 1984. The new species is mainly distinguished by mouthparts (i.e. the shape and setation of labrum, maxillary and labial palps, details of paraglossae and mandibular incisors), setation of legs and abdominal terga, and length of paracercus. All available data on the biology of this putative endemic species of Cyprus are summarized. Annotated distributional data of the 33 species of Baetidae so far recorded from the Mediterranean islands are given, including new records and also including first data from Malta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decades research efforts studying Amazonian biodiversity have increased substantially, with many new localities surveyed, new specimens collected, and some new regional collections established. In our study, we revised, updated, and summarized the available data on the diversity, distribution, species richness, and conservation status of lizards from the Brazilian Amazonia. We recorded 138 species-level taxa of lizards in the Brazilian Amazonia that presented five general patterns of distribution, plus some cases of unique distributions. Species richness is unevenly distributed across the region, varying between one and 44 species in a single grid, with 37–44 species in the richest areas. Based on the overlap of occurrence area of each species with protected areas (strict nature reserves; managed resource protected areas; protected indigenous peoples’ territories) and deforested layers, we show that 58% of the analyzed species (n = 75) present more than 50% of their occurrence area outside of any protected area, and 20% (n = 26) of them present 33% or less occurrence in protected areas. Strict nature reserves (strictly protected areas) are responsible for the main protection (≥50% of the protected area) of only 3% of the species (n = 4). Indigenous peoples’ territories represent the main protection area for 31% of the species (n = 40). Ten species present more than 50% of their occurrence in area deforested, and for 12 species the range varied between 33 and 50% of habitat loss. Revising the International Union for Conservation of Nature conservation status categories for a regional assessment, three species were classified as EN (Endangered), six as VU (Vulnerable), and 15 as NT (Near Threatened). Species with occurrence in Southern Amazonia are the most threatened. We presented the core areas for conservation of species richness and discussed their conservation status. Habitat loss due to mechanized agriculture (mainly from soy plantation), pastures, fire, and infrastructure project (e.g. roads and hydroelectric dams) are the main threats to the lizard fauna. Southern Amazonia is the region with the highest human pressure and, at the same time, it is the least protected. We suggest a revision to the mosaic of interconnected conservation areas, mainly in Southern Amazonia, and recommend that new infrastructure projects in the region take preventive actions to mitigate the direct and indirect impacts on the local lizard fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Red panda (Ailurus fulgens) is threatened across its range by detrimental human activities and rapid habitat changes necessitating captive breeding programs in various zoos globally to save this flagship species from extinction. One of the ultimate aims of ex situ conservation is reintroduction of endangered animals into their natural habitats while maintaining 90 % of the founder genetic diversity. Advances in molecular genetics and microsatellite genotyping techniques make it possible to accurately estimate genetic diversity of captive animals of unknown ancestry. Here we assess genetic diversity of the red panda population in Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Darjeeling, which plays a pivotal role in ex situ conservation of red panda in India. We generated microsatellite genotypes of fifteen red pandas with a set of fourteen loci. This population is genetically diverse with 68 % observed heterozygosity (H) and mean inbreeding (F) coefficient of 0.05. However population viability analysis reveals that this population has a very low survival probability (<2 %) and will rapidly loose its genetic diversity to 37 % mainly due to small population size and skewed male-biased sex ratio. Regular supplementation with a pair of adult individuals every five years will increase survival probability and genetic diversity to 99 and 61 % respectively and will also support future harvesting of individuals for reintroduction into the wild and exchange with other zoos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Home range sizes of territorial animals are often observed to vary periodically in response to seasonal changes in foraging opportunities. Here we develop the first mechanistic model focused on the temporal dynamics of home range expansion and contraction in territorial animals. We demonstrate how simple movement principles can lead to a rich suite of range size dynamics, by balancing foraging activity with defensive requirements and incorporating optimal behavioral rules into mechanistic home range analysis. Our heuristic model predicts three general temporal patterns that have been observed in empirical studies across multiple taxa. First, a positive correlation between age and territory quality promotes shrinking home ranges over an individual’s lifetime, with maximal range size variability shortly before the adult stage. Second, poor sensory information, low population density, and large resource heterogeneity may all independently facilitate range size instability. Finally, aggregation behavior toward forage-rich areas helps produce divergent home range responses between individuals from different age classes. This model has broad applications for addressing important unknowns in animal space use, with potential applications also in conservation and health management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Bukhara region, information on the types of animal species, their distribution in hunting farms, hunting, informal or poaching species, and the ecological features of hunting farms are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on the marine species condition at Upper Gulf of California. Topics discussed include concern for extinction of vaquita porpoise, most endangered marine mammal of Mexico; reduction of freshwater flow into the Upper Gulf of California (UGC) due to damming and diversion of the Colorado River, cause decline in vaquita; and collaborative efforts required among fishermen, the seafood supply chain, and environmental and fisheries agencies for conservative solution.

Background: African elephants comprise two species, the savanna elephant (Loxodonta africana) and the forest elephant (L. cyclotis), which are distinct morphologically and genetically. Forest elephants are seriously threatened by poaching for meat and ivory, and by habitat destruction. However, microsatellite markers have thus far been developed only in African savanna elephants and Asian elephants, Elephas maximus. The application of microsatellite markers across deeply divergent lineages may produce irregular patterns such as large indels or null alleles. Thus we developed novel microsatellite markers using DNA from two African forest elephants. Findings: One hundred microsatellite loci were identified in next generation shotgun sequences from two African forest elephants, of which 53 were considered suitable for testing. Twenty-three microsatellite markers successfully amplified elephant DNA without amplifying human DNA; these were further characterized in 15 individuals from Lope National Park, Gabon. Three of the markers were monomorphic and four of them carried only two alleles. The remaining sixteen polymorphic loci carried from 3 to 8 alleles, with observed heterozygosity ranging from 0.27 to 0.87, expected heterozygosity from 0.40 to 0.86, and the Shannon diversity index from 0.73 to 1.86. Linkage disequilibrium was not detected between loci, and no locus deviated from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Conclusions: The markers developed in this study will be useful for genetic analyses of the African forest elephant and contribute to their conservation and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urbanization is a key global driver in the modification of land use and has been linked to population declines even in widespread and relatively common species. Cities comprise a complex assortment of habitat types yet we know relatively little about the effects of their composition and spatial configuration on species distribution. Although many bat species exploit human resources, the majority of species are negatively impacted by urbanization. Here, we use data from the National Bat Monitoring Programme, a long-running citizen science scheme, to assess how two cryptic European bat species respond to the urban landscape. A total of 124 × 1 km2 sites throughout Britain were surveyed. The landscape surrounding each site was mapped and classified into discrete biotope types (e.g., woodland). Generalized linear models were used to assess differences in the response to the urban environment between the two species, and which landscape factors were associated with the distributions of P. pipistrellus and P. pygmaeus. The relative prevalence of P. pygmaeus compared to P. pipistrellus was greater in urban landscapes with a higher density of rivers and lakes, whereas P. pipistrellus was frequently detected in landscapes comprising a high proportion of green space (e.g., parklands). Although P. pipistrellus is thought to be well adapted to the urban landscape, we found a strong negative response to urbanization at a relatively local scale (1 km), whilst P. pygmaeus was detected more regularly in wooded urban landscapes containing freshwater. These results show differential habitat use at a landscape scale of two morphologically similar species, indicating that cryptic species may respond differently to anthropogenic disturbance. Even species considered relatively common and well adapted to the urban landscape may respond negatively to the built environment highlighting the future challenges involved in maintaining biodiversity within an increasingly urbanized world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species turnover or β diversity is a conceptually attractive surrogate for conservation planning. However, there has been only 1 attempt to determine how well sites selected to maximize β diversity represent species, and that test was done at a scale too coarse (2,500 km2 sites) to inform most conservation decisions. We used 8 plant datasets, 3 bird datasets, and 1 mammal dataset to evaluate whether sites selected to span β diversity will efficiently represent species at finer scale (sites sizes < 1 ha to 625 km2). We used ordinations to characterize dissimilarity in species assemblages (β diversity) among plots (inventory data) or among grid cells (atlas data). We then selected sites to maximize β diversity and used the Species Accumulation Index, SAI, to evaluate how efficiently the surrogate (selecting sites for maximum β diversity) represented species in the same taxon. Across all 12 datasets, sites selected for maximum β diversity represented species with a median efficiency of 24% (i.e., the surrogate was 24% more effective than random selection of sites), and an interquartile range of 4% to 41% efficiency. β diversity was a better surrogate for bird datasets than for plant datasets, and for atlas datasets with 10-km to 14-km grid cells than for atlas datasets with 25-km grid cells. We conclude that β diversity is more than a mere descriptor of how species are distributed on the landscape; in particular β diversity might be useful to maximize the complementarity of a set of sites. Because we tested only within-taxon surrogacy, our results do not prove that β diversity is useful for conservation planning. But our results do justify further investigation to identify the circumstances in which β diversity performs well, and to evaluate it as a cross-taxon surrogate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Propithecus coronatus is an endangered, diurnal forest-dwelling lemur of northwestern Madagascar. We conducted the first extensive population genetic study for this species. We designed new primers to amplify and sequence the mitochondrial D-loop of 125 individuals from 14 localities in the northern part of the species' distribution. Our aim was to assess the genetic variability and differentiation of this species in a fragmented landscape. Compared to other lemurs, crowned sifakas have a moderate level of haplotype diversity (0.853) and a low nucleotide diversity (1.21%). Despite the considerable forest fragmentation in the region surveyed, the species does not show strong signals of genetic structure as shown by the ΦST estimates, the network of haplotypes, and the limited correlation between genetic and geographic distance. The current mtDNA estimated effective population size was relatively large (median: 11,262; 95% HPD: 5,107-20,083), in agreement with recent census estimates, suggesting that a large number of individuals is still present across the species range. Using the Extended Bayesian Skyline Plot (EBSP) approach to reconstruct the demographic history of the species, we did not detect any genetic signal of change in population size. Despite the ongoing loss and fragmentation of their habitat, the population still harbors subtantial genetic diversity, likely as a partial consequence of a taboo against hunting the crowned sifaka among the Sakalava ethnic group inhabiting the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessment of genetic diversity in indigenous animals is an important and essential task for animal genetic improvement studies as well as conservation decision-making. The genetic diversity and evolutionary relationships among geographically and phenotypically distinct three pig breeds/types native to Indo-Burma and Eastern Himalayan global biodiversity hotspots were determined by genotyping with a panel of 22 ISAG recommended microsatellite loci as well as sequencing partialMTRNR1gene. The mean number of alleles per locus, effective number of alleles and observed heterozygosity were found to be 11.27 ± 0.85, 5.29 ± 0.34, and 0.795 ± 0.01, respectively. The moderateFSTvalue (0.115 ± 0.01) indicated a fair degree of genetic differentiation among the native breeds. The Nei’s unbiased genetic identity estimates indicated less genetic distance (0.2909) between Niang Megha and Tenyi Vo pigs than the both individually with Ghoongroo breed. The divergence time was also estimated from the microsatellite analysis. Analysis ofMTRNR1gene revealed distinct clustering of native Indian pigs with Chinese pigs over European pigs. The study revealed the abundance of genetic variation within native Indian pigs and their relationships as well as genetic distances. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Captive breeding is a widespread conservation strategy, yet such programs rarely include empirical genetic data for assessing management assumptions and meeting conservation goals. Cuban Amazon parrots (Amazona leucocephala) are considered vulnerable, and multiple onisland captive populations have been established from wild-caught and confiscated individuals of unknown ancestry. Here, we used mitochondrial haplotypic and nuclear genotypic data at 9 microsatellite loci to quantify the extent and distribution of genetic variation within and among captive populations in Zapata Swamp and Managua, Cuba, and to estimate kinship among breeders (n = 88). Using Bayesian clustering analysis, we detected 2 distinct clusters within the Zapata population, one of which was shared with Managua. Individuals from the cluster unique to Zapata possessed mitochondrial haplotypes with affinities to Cuban subspecies (A. l. leucocephala, A. l. palmarum); the shared cluster was similar, but also included haplotypes closely related to the subspecies restricted to Cayman Brac (A. l. hesterna). Overall mean kinship was low within each captive population (-0.026 to -0.012), with 19 and 11 recommended breeding pairs in Zapata and Managua, respectively, ranked according to mean kinship and informed by molecular sexing. Our results highlight the importance of understanding population history within ex situ management programs, while providing genetic information to directly inform Cuban parrot conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An introduction is presented in which the editor discusses various reports within the issue including conservation genetics in Latin America, conservation challenges and the training offered in the Conservation Genetics Network.

Understanding the intraspecific genetic composition of populations in different geographic locations is important for the conservation of species. If genetic variability is structured, conservation strategies should seek to preserve the diversity of units. Also, origin of individuals can be determined, which is important for guiding actions against animal trafficking. The hyacinth macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus) is located in allopatric regions, vulnerable to extinction and suffering animal trafficking pressure. Therefore, we characterized its population genetic structure based on 10 microsatellites from 98 individuals and 2123 bp of mitochondrial sequence (ND5, cytochrome b, and ND2) from 80 individuals. Moderate to high levels of differentiation were observed among 3 geographic regions of Brazil: the north/northeast of the country, the north Pantanal, and the south Pantanal. Differentiation between the 2 regions within the Pantanal was not expected, as they are relatively close and there is no known barrier to macaw movement between these regions. These genetically differentiated groups were estimated to have diverged 16 000 to 42 000 years ago. The low genetic variability observed seems not to be the result of past bottlenecks, although a star-shaped haplotype network and the mismatch distribution suggest that there was recent demographic expansion in the north and northeast. Environmental changes in the Holocene could have caused this expansion. Given the genetic structure observed, the most probable regions of origin of 24 confiscated individuals were identified. Thus, these data helped to trace illegal traffic routes and identify natural populations that are being illegally harvested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Galaxias maculatus (Pisces: Galaxiidae) commonly known as "puye" has a disjunct distribution along the Southern Hemisphere including landlocked and migratory populations at latitudes over 30°S in South America, Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand. Chilean artisanal fishery of G. maculatus has become less important as a resource due to multiple factors including overexploitation, pollution, introduction of predators, and competitors. At the same time, the current conservation status of the species in Chile is still uncertain. Here, we used mtDNA control region sequences (925 bp) to investigate main patterns of genetic diversity and structure in populations from 2 biogeographic areas along the Chilean coast. Extremely high levels of genetic diversity characterize the species, suggesting a low amount of influence of the last glacial cycle over its demography compared with other studies in freshwater and marine South American fishes. However, we recognized contrasting genetic patterns between the Intermediate Area (between 30°S and 42°S) and the Magellanic Province (between 42°S and 56°S). On the one hand, over a narrow geographical range (<200 km) each Intermediate Area estuarine population constitutes a different genetic unit. On the other hand, the Magellanic populations of the species exhibited low levels of differentiation in an area extending for more than 500 km. Such differences may be a consequence of different coastal configurations, oceanographic regimes, and Quaternary glacial histories. Finally, our results support the existence of different stock units for G. maculatus and this information should be integrated in future management strategies and aquaculture programs for this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Local communities are often encouraged to adopt alternative land-use practices to minimize their impacts on biodiversity. Tourism is one of these practices but it can also impact conservation and traditional resource use activities. Using a review of the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List database as well as nature-based tourism, ethnozoology, ethnobiology, and wildlife conservation and trade literature, we examined the influence of tourism on the traditional resource use–conservation balance and the potential outcomes for species conservation. We identified 547 local culturally important species (LCIS): 369 were threatened by traditional practices (e.g., hunting) and 161 were protected (e.g., totemic species). Most LCIS were found in the Indomalayan, Neotropical, and Afrotropical regions and roughly 30% were involved in nature-based tourism, particularly mammals. Very few LCIS (<5) were threatened by tourism. Results suggested that tourism can support species conservation and protect traditional practices by providing alternative local sustainable development options. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A major goal in evolutionary biology is to determine the mechanisms responsible for maintaining phenotypic variation. Species that have evolved intersexual differences provide an opportunity to increase our understanding of trait evolution. We hypothesize that phenotypic diversity is related to reproductive strategies of female lizards and therefore, to their reproductive potential. Consequently, we evaluated sexual dimorphism in several morphological traits and assessed phenotypic variability and selection on body traits of female lizards in a model species ( Tupinambis merianae). The results support our hypothesis that certain phenotypic traits of body shape are sexually dimorphic and that females present large continuous variation in these traits. Moreover, some morphological traits in females favor the increment of energetic reserves and reproductive output. These results contribute to the identification of characters upon which selection may have acted and suggest that phenotypic variation in female lizards are related to a diversity of reproductive strategies. Therefore, we fill part of the knowledge gap on the proximate mechanisms that link maternal morphology and reproductive potential in female lizards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The loss of biodiversity from urbanized areas is a major environmental problem challenging policy-makers throughout the world. Solutions to this problem are urgently required in China. We carried out a case study of wintering long-eared owls ( Asio otus) and their main prey to illustrate the negative effects of urbanization combined with ineffective conservation of biodiversity in Beijing. Field monitoring of owl numbers at two roosting sites from 2004 to 2012 showed that the owl population had fallen rapidly in metropolitan Beijing. Analysis of pellet contents identified only seven individuals of two species of shrew. The majority of mammalian prey comprised four bat and seven rodent species, making up 29.3% and 29.5% of the prey items, respectively. Prey composition varied significantly among years at the two sample sites. At the urban site the consumption of bats and rodents declined gradually over time, while predation on birds increased. In contrast, at the suburban site the prey composition showed an overall decrease in the number of bats, a sharp increase and a subsequent decrease in bird prey, and the number of rodent prey fell to a low point. Rapid development of real estate and inadequate greenfield management in city parks resulted in negative effects on the bird and small mammal habitat of urban areas in Beijing. We suggest that measures to conserve biodiversity should be integrated into future urban planning to maintain China's rich biodiversity while also achieving sustainable economic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although ex situ conservation is indispensable for thousands of species, captive breeding is associated with negative genetic changes: loss of genetic variance and genetic adaptation to captivity that is deleterious in the wild. We used quantitative genetic individual-based simulations to model the effect of genetic management on the evolution of a quantitative trait and the associated fitness of wild-born individuals that are brought to captivity. We also examined the feasibility of the breeding strategies under a scenario of a large number of loci subject to deleterious mutations. We compared two breeding strategies: repeated half-sib mating and a method of minimizing mean coancestry (referred to as gc/mc). Our major finding was that half-sib mating is more effective in reducing genetic adaptation to captivity than the gc/mc method. Moreover, half-sib mating retains larger allelic and adaptive genetic variance. Relative to initial standing variation, the additive variance of the quantitative trait increased under half-sib mating during the sojourn in captivity. Although fragmentation into smaller populations improves the efficiency of the gc/mc method, half-sib mating still performs better in the scenarios tested. Half-sib mating shows two caveats that could mitigate its beneficial effects: low heterozygosity and high risk of extinction when populations are of low fecundity and size and one of the following conditions are met: (i) the strength of selection in captivity is comparable with that in the wild, (ii) deleterious mutations are numerous and only slightly deleterious. Experimental validation of half-sib mating is therefore needed for the advancement of captive breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Baselines rooted in historical records or concepts of previous conditions are necessarily used to identify and generate recovery goals for endangered species. However, strict adherence to various spatial, temporal, and genetic baselines can limit endangered species recovery actions, success, and the broader conservation of biodiversity. Recent approaches that deviate from historical baselines such as assisted colonization and intentional hybridization have been used to facilitate recovery but lack broad acceptance and an underpinning conceptual framework to guide their use in practice. We here present a novel framework for addressing when baseline-abandoning approaches should be implemented that requires both scientific input and management-defined thresholds. We submit that in cases where species face extreme endangerment and managers have little chance of reducing or ameliorating future threats within a species' historical range, it is better to embrace a more flexible recovery model that includes taking action that deviates from historical baselines. Embracing this reinterpretation of management baselines not only has the potential to advance endangered species recovery but could have important cascading effects on ecosystem-based approaches to conservation. Further, rethinking adherences to baselines can affect our broader social-psychological relationship with wildlife conservation and management. Overall, although historical data on baseline conditions will remain vital to the initial setting of recovery goals, many situations will require more dynamic interpretations of paths to recovering endangered species. © 2014 The Wildlife Society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the evolving and innovatory role of the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF), an NGO with charitable status, in dealing with the challenge of protecting wildlife outside state-protected areas. Drawing on the theoretical framework of institutional entrepreneurship, we historically trace AWF's engagement in conservation tourism, describing the complexities of how its actions evolved into the new organizational form of tourism conservation enterprises. We identify four key mechanisms – its “glocal” scope of action, awareness of policy and market voids, experimentation and hiring business professionals – that explain why AWF became aware, motivated and open to developing this organizational form. Lessons emerging from this process include that conservation NGOs should act as “opportunity seekers”, focus on incremental rather than radical innovations, note voids and ambiguities in governmental policies that provide opportunities for non-state actors to assume the role of institutional entrepreneur, and hire staff skilled in business, tourism and strategic management besides staff with the more conventional conservation skills in order to effectively engage in conservation tourism. Overall, the paper notes the importance of commercial conservation tourism approaches for the work of protected areas worldwide, and in using tourism as a poverty alleviation tool in less developed countries. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]