Influence of Forest Fragmentation on Mammalian Species Richness in Fragmented Landscapes in Rwanda
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47672/ajns.2044Keywords:
Forest Fragmentation, Mammalian Species, Fragmented LandscapesAbstract
Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the influence of forest fragmentation on mammalian species richness in fragmented landscapes in Rwanda.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: Fragmentation, caused by human activities such as agriculture, urbanization, and deforestation, disrupts natural habitats, leading to smaller, isolated patches of forest. This disruption affects mammalian species differently, with some adapting to fragmented landscapes while others face decline or extinction. Studies indicate that species richness tends to decrease as fragmentation increases, primarily due to habitat loss, reduced connectivity, and increased edge effects. Moreover, certain species are more vulnerable to fragmentation, depending on their ecological traits and habitat requirements. Conservation efforts must focus on mitigating fragmentation effects through habitat restoration, creating corridors for connectivity, and implementing landscape-level management strategies to maintain mammalian biodiversity in fragmented landscapes.
Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Island biogeography theory, metapopulation theory and habitat fragmentation theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the influence of forest fragmentation on mammalian species richness in fragmented landscapes in Rwanda. Implement landscape-scale conservation strategies that prioritize the protection and restoration of large contiguous forest areas, as identified by empirical studies as crucial for maintaining mammalian species richness. Advocate for policies that promote sustainable land-use planning and management practices to minimize further habitat fragmentation and preserve critical wildlife corridors and habitat connectivity.
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