Poultry, Fisheries & Wildlife Sciences
Open Access

Abstract

Interspecific Association of Pangolin Ecosystem in Deng-Deng National Park, Eastern Region, Cameroon

Melle Ekane Maurice*, Ewane Divine, Kome Elvis Ngome, Ebong Lionel Esong, Mesue Kome Colins, Mesumbe Bernsirene Ewange, Nkamta Eric Junior Tchek and Ochiafor Nelvis Onorakwa

Understanding the heterospecific associations within the pangolin ecosystem is important for developing effective conservation strategies. These associations not only contribute to the ecological resilience of the national park but also shed light on the intricate ecological relationships in this unique habitat. This research aimed to examine the heterospecific association of pangolins within deng-deng national park, focusing on their interactions with other species and the ecological implications of these associations. Field surveys and observational techniques were employed to gather data on pangolin associations with other wildlife species. Camera traps were used to record direct observations of pangolins and their interactions with co-occurring species. The study revealed a significant association of wildlife species on human activity X²=28.489, df=12, P=0.005, forest vegetation type X²=10.002, df=12, P<0.05, and forest vegetation canopy X²=28.655, df=8, P=0.001 respectively. Also, the most frequently observed wildlife species in the pangolin environment were gorillas (Gorilla gorilla) 12% and chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes ) 11% respectively, while the least were tortoise (Centrochelys sulcata) 5% and red-river hog (Potamochoesrus porcus) 5% respectively. A significant association was found between forest undergrowth and wildlife species in pangolin environment X²=5.567, df=8, P<0.05. Furthermore, the study has shown a significance between forest visibility and wildlife species, X²=6.175, df=8, P<0.05. There is a significant relationship between forest landscape and wildlife species, X²=16.699, df=8, P<0.05. Forest landscape and the vegetation canopy showed a significant association as well X²=5.434, df=4, P<0.05. The study on the heterospecific association of pangolin ecosystem in deng-deng national park provides valuable insights into the interactions between pangolins and other wildlife species. These findings contribute to our understanding of the complex ecological dynamics within the park and provide a basis for informed conservation decision-making to ensure the sustainability of pangolin ecosystem in deng-deng national park.

Published Date: 2024-07-02; Received Date: 2024-05-30