The Global 200 : a representation Approach to Conserving the Earth’s Distinctive Ecoregions
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TerrestrialRealmTropical And Subtropical Moist Forests C Generally found in large, discontinuous patches centered on the equatorial belt and between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn, Tropical And Subtropical Moist Forests are characterized by low variability in annual temperature and high levels of rainfall (>200 cm annually). Forest composition is dominated by semi-evergreen and evergreen deciduous tree species. These trees number in the thousands and contribute to the highest levels of species diversity in any terrestrial MHT. In general, biodiversity is focused in the forest canopy, although five layers typify the forest structure: overstory canopy with emergent crowns, a medium layer of canopy, lower canopy, shrub level, and finally understory. Afrotropical
uinean Moist Forests [1] – Benin,Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Togo Geographic Location: Moist forests of West Africa Biodiversity Features: Along with the far larger and more intact Congolian rainforests, the moist forests that lie along coastal West Africa from Guinea throughSierra Léone, Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire, and Ghana, with pockets in Togo and Benin,form the most species-rich habitats in West Africa. Separated from the Central African forests to the east by the Dahomey Gap in Togo, Benin, and eastern Ghana, where savannas and woodlands extend to the coast, the two blocks of forest have evolved plant and animal species that are highly distinctive within the Afrotropical region. Many species maintain restricted ranges within the forests of this region. CONTINENTALLY DISTINCTIVE TROPICAL FOREST BIOTA (WESTERN AFRICAN) WITH SIGNIFICANT ENDEMISM SEEN IN A RANGE OF TAXA Selected Species: Species include chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes), Cassin’s hawk eagle (Spizaetus africanus), pygmy hippopotamus (Hexaprotodon liberiensis), West African hinged tortoise (Kinixys erosa), Ogilby's duiker (Cephalophus ogilbyi), zebra duiker (Cephalophus zebra), West African mahogany (Khaya grandifolia), and golden cat (Panthera aurata). Bird species include endemics such as Gola malimbe(Malimbus ballmanni), black-capped rufous warbler (Bathmocercus cerviniventris), little green woodpecker (Campethera maculosa), and Rufous fishing-owl (Scotopelia ussheri). General Threats: The lowland rainforest in West Africa has been severely reduced by logging, clearing for agriculture, and mining activities. Intensive hunting has significantly reduced wildlife populations. ongolian Coastal Forests [2] – Angola, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Nigeria, São Tomé & Príncipe, Republic of Congo Geographic Location: The Atlantic Coast of Central Africa Biodiversity Features: The Congolian coastal forests form part of the vast central African rainforests, which cover a much larger area than those of West Africa and support a greater diversity of species. This region is known for numerous regional and local endemic species, including many that are restricted to the nearby islands São Tomé & Príncipe. ONE OF africa’s richest tropical forests with very high levels of endemism Selected Species: Mammal species in this ecoregion include mandrill (Mandrillus leucophaeus), flightless scaly-tailed squirrel (Zenkerella insignis), long-tailed pangolin (Manis tetradactyla), black colobus monkey (Colobus satanas), northern needle-clawed bushbaby (Euoticus pallidus), and suntailed monkey, Cercopithecus solatus. Other species include numerous endemic birds such as Bates’s weaver (Ploceus batesi), Gabon batis (Batis minima), giant sunbird (Nectarinia thomensis), Dohrn’s thrush-babbler (Horizorhinus dohrni), dwarf olive ibis (Bostrychiabocagei), and the SãoTomégrosbeak (Neospiza concolor). The Goliath frog (Conraua goliath) and giant ginger (Aframomum giganteum) are also native to this ecoregion. General Threats: Agricultural expansion, hunting, commercial logging, and anthropogenic fires pose significant threat to the ecoregion.
ameroon Highland Forest [3] – Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Nigeria Geographic Location: Central Africa Biodiversity Features: This ecoregion encompasses the mountains and highland areas of the border region between Nigeria and Cameroon, including such areas as the Rumpi Hills, the Bakossi Mountains, Mount Kupe, Mount Nlonako, the Adamawa Plateau, and the Nambla Plateau plus Mount Cameroon. These Mountains form part of a chain of active volcanoes stretching inland from the sea, striking southwest to northeast. At least 50 species and three genera of plants are strictly endemic and 50 more are near endemic to Mt. Cameroon and associated lowland forests. Many of these endemic plant species reflect a recent evolutionary history, developing unique characteristics and adaptations in relation to the emergence of Mount Cameroon. HIGH LEVELS OF ENDEMISM AMONG PLANTS AND BIRDS, INCLUDING MANY ENDEMICS RESTRICTED TO ONLY A FEW SITES OR NARROW ALTITUDINAL BANDS Selected Species: Among the numerous endemic species found in this ecoregion are: birds such as green longtail (Urolais epichlora), white-tailed warbler (Poliolais lopezi), Mount Cameroon francolin (Francolinus camerunensis), Fernando Po speirops (Batis poensis), and Bannerman’s turaco (Tauraco bannermani), reptiles such as Chamaeleo montium, Chamaeleo quadricornis, Hydraethiops laevis, and Leptosiaphos ianthinoxantha; and mammals such as Preuss's monkey (Cercopithecus preussi), northern needle-clawed bushbaby (Euoticus pallidus), Hybomys eisentrauti, and Otomys occidentalis. General Threats: Forest loss caused by unsustainable exploitation of firewood, overgrazing, fire damage and agricultural encroachment is the main threat to the biota of this ecoregion. Some areas, such as the northern and western slopes of Mount Cameroon and the mountains of Bioko, are more intact and still support connectivity across important elevational gradients. However, portions of Bioko Island and Mount Cameroon are also potentially threatened by fire in grassland habitats within these forests.
ortheastern Congo Basin Moist Forests [4] – Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo Geographic Location: Central Africa Biodiversity Features: Part of an ancient drainage basin—influenced by climate desiccation events during recent Ice Ages—the lowland forests of this ecoregion contain a number of narrowly endemic species. The eastern portion of the Democratic Republic of Congo contains several forest refugia, areas of the planet with remnant populations of more ancient species, many of which are found nowhere else. Of particular significance are the forests of Ituri and the lowland forests of the Itombwe Mountains to the South. These relatively intact forests rank among the most important major tropical forest wildernesses left on Earth. IN ADDITION TO HIGH LEVELS OF ENDEMISM, DISJUNCT AREAS EXHIBITING HIGH LEVELS OF RICHNESS CHARACTERIZE THIS ECOREGION’S BIOTA Selected Species: The ecoregion is home to a diverse array of mammals, including such species as L’hoest i’sguenon (Cercopitheus l’hoesti), gorilla (Gorilla gorilla), Angolan black-and-white colobus (Colobus angolensis), okapi (Okapia johnstoni), and brush-tailed porcupines (Atherurus africanus). Endemic mammals include Piliocolobus oustaleti, Dent’s guenon (Cercopithecus monadenti), aquatic civet (Osbornictis piscivora), and giant forest genet (Genetta victoriae). In addition, two birds are restricted to these forests: Bedford's paradise flycatcher (Terpsiphone bedfordi) and Turner's eremomela (Eremomelaturneri). More characteristic species include lesser striped-swallow (Hirundo abyssinica), and green-backed woodpecker (Campethera cailliauti). General Threats: Hunting increasingly threatens ecosystem dynamics. Conversion of forest for agriculture is also a major threat.
entral Congo Basin Moist Forests [5] – Democratic Republic of Congo Geographic Location: Central Africa Biodiversity Features: The topography of this ecorgion is an ancient part of the African landscape, shaped by erosion processes over numerous millennia; it consists of low-lying areas in the central portion as well as areas of rolling hills toward the Southeast. The eastern portion of the ecoregion may have been a lake not long ago, drying out in recent times. Moreover, the ecoregion is comprised of a complex mosaic of vegetation types: swamp forest, seasonally flooded forest, stands of rainforest, dryland forest, seasonally inundated savanna, and secondary derived grasslands. These forests remain relatively intact. As a result, they support a number of large mammals, including some found nowhere else. INTACT AFROTROPIAL RAINFOREST THAT SUPPORTS A NUMBER OF LARGE MAMMALS IN ADDITION TO NUMEROUS OTHER ANIMALS Selected Species: Plants include camwood tree (Baphia spp.) and ground orchid (Eulophia porphyroglossa). A large number of mammals, such as the endemic bonobo (Pan paniscus), Allen’s swamp monkey (Allenopithecus nigroviridis), African golden cat (Felis aurata), Beecroft's tree hyrax (Dendrohyrax dorsalis), giant pangolin (Manis gigantea), Wolf’s guenon (Cercopithecus wolfi), and dryas guenon (Cercopithecus dryas) roam the forests of this ecoregion. The Congo peafowl (Afropavo congensis), endemic to the Congo River basin, is the only pheasant species not native to Asia. Other bird species include the Congo weaver (Euplectes anomala), Congo sunbird (Nectarinia congensis), Bates’s paradise fly-catcher (Terpsiphone batesi), Green-backed camaroptera (Camaroptera brachyura), and the endemic brown nightjar (Caprimulgus binotatus). General Threats: Given the difficulties associated with reaching these areas—large areas of the ecoregion are remote and consist of inaccessible swamp forests—the ecoregion remains relatively intact. However, there are no protected areas within the ecoregion. What little area that has been converted generally occurs along rivers—the only means of access.
estern Congo Basin Moist Forests [6] – Cameroon, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Republic of Congo Geographic Location: Central Africa Biodiversity Features: This is the one of the richest ecoregions in Africa in terms of biodiversity, supporting many species of mammals, birds, amphibians, fishes, and swallowtail butterflies. ONE OF THE RICHEST AND MOST INTACT TROPICAL FOREST REGIONS OF THE WORLD Selected Species: Species include western lowland gorilla (Gorilla gorilla), crowned monkey (Cercopithecus mona pogonias), and forest dwelling populations of African elephant (Loxodonta africana). A number of other mammals are supported by these forest habitats. They include the giant forest hog (Hylochoerus meinertzhageni), the bongo (Tragelaphus euryceros), and Beecroft's tree hyrax (Dendrohyrax dorsalis). Bird species such as forest swallow (Hirundo fuliginosa), Dja River warbler (Bradypterus grandis), Bates’s weaver (Ploceus batesi) and African river martin (Pseudochelidon eurystomina), characterize the avifauna. General Threats: Increasing logging activity and clearing for agricultural expansion threaten many areas.
lbertine Rift Montane Forests [7] – Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Tanzania ,Uganda Geographic Location: Central Africa Biodiversity Features: This ecoregion of montane and highland moist forests of Central Africa supports one of Africa’s distinctive montane biotas. The western side of the highlands fringe the lowland Congolian rainforests, resulting in a diverse transitional flora and fauna. Rich in species, as compared to other montane regions in Africa, this area harbors at least 14 endemic species of butterfly and 37 endemic bird species—the highest figure in Africa for any equivalent sized area. ONE OF AFRICA’S FEW MONTANE REGIONS WITH THE HIGHEST RICHNESS AND LEVELS OF ENDEMISM Selected Species: Characteristic mammals include mountain gorilla (Gorilla gorilla), plus a number of endemic species such as Ruwenzori sun squirrel (Heliosciurus ruwenzori), Ruwenzori shrew (Ruwenzorisorex suncoides), chisel-toothed shrew (Paracrocidura graueri), and two species of broad-footed thicket rat (Thamnomys kempi and T. venustus). More than twenty birds are endemic to this ecoregion and in some cases surrounding habitats: Rwenzori batis (Batis diops), Chapin's flycatcher (Muscicapa lendu), Chapin's flycatcher (Melaenornis ardesiacus), collared apalis (Apalis ruwenzorii), Grauer's warbler (Graueria vittata), and Albertine owlet (Glaucidium albertinum). Bamboo frog (Callixalus pictus), copper-colored treefrog (Chrysobatrachus cupreonites), giant torrent frog (Phrynobatrachus asper) and Johnston’s chameleon (Chamaeleo johnstoni) are just some of the amphibians and reptiles that help make these montane forests so special. General Threats: Agriculture, grazing, hunting, and timber collection threaten the biodiversity of this ecoregion. Highland forests have been largely cleared but some sizable blocks of montane forest still occur in areas such as the Virunga, Itombwe, and Rwenzori Ranges. ast African Coastal Forests [8] – Kenya, Somalia, Tanzania
Geographic Location: Eastern coast of Africa. Biodiversity Features: A belt of lowland forests that run along the coast of eastern Africa from southern Somalia to the Mbemkuru River in southern Tanzania constitute this ecoregion. Like the forests of the Eastern Arc Mountains, this moist forest ecoregion has long been isolated from other regions of tropical moist forests by expanses of drier savannas and grasslands. Thus, much of the forest biota is endemic to the region, and there is significant local endemism in both plants and animals. Many of the plant species display remarkable adaptations to sandy, nutrient-poor soils that cover much of the ecoregion. BEST EXAMPLE OF EAST AFRICAN LOWLAND TROPICAL MOIST FORESTS, HIGHLY DISTINCTIVE SPECIES AND GENERA AT CONTINENTAL SCALES Selected Species: Clarke's weaver (Ploceus golandi), Sokoke scops owl (Otus ireneae), Pemba sunbird (Nectarina pemba), Fischer’s tauraco (Tauraco fishceri) as well as Tana River cisticola (Cisticola restrictus) comprise a portion of this ecoregion’s avifauna. Mammals include a number of endemic species: Pemba Island flying fox (Pteropus comorensis), Sokoke dog mongoose (Bdeogale omnivora), Zanzibar red colobus (Piliocolobus kirkii), Tana mangabey (Cercocebus galeritus), Zanzibar galago (Galagoides zanzibaricus), and Zanj elephant shrew (Rhynchocyon petersi). General Threats: Most of this area has been heavily settled for many years and only a few blocks of lingering forest remain widely distributed and isolated throughout the ecoregion.
astern Arc Montane Forests [9] – Kenya, Tanzania Geographic Location: NW-SW range of ancient mountains in eastern Tanzania. Biodiversity Features: The few mountainous regions in Africa are all isolated from one another by great expanses of lowland habitats. Over evolutionary time, this has contributed to the highly distinctive nature of the animals and plants that inhabit each montane region. The Eastern Arc Mountains consist of a complex of ranges and peaks that are among the oldest in Africa, as are the forest communities of the region. Because of their close proximity to the Indian Ocean, they have experienced relatively moist conditions for a very long time, even as periodic drying trends affected much of the rest of Africa. The biota is noted for very high levels of regional endemism, with many locally endemic species of plants and animals restricted to single mountain ranges. The Usambara Mountains of northeast Tanzania alone have some 50 endemic tree species. ANCIENT TROPICAL MONTANE FORESTS HIGHLY DISTINCTIVE AT CONTINENTAL SCALES EVEN WHEN COMPARED TO OTHER EASTERN AFRICAN MONTANE REGIONS Selected Species: Species include numerous birds, such as Taita thrush (Turdus helleri), Usambara akalat ( Sheppardia sharpei), Usambara eagle-owl (Bubo vosseleri), and banded sunbird (Anthreptes rubritorques). This ecoregion supports populations of the spectacular Usambara violet (Saintpaulia ionantha), as well as the msambo tree (Allanblackia stuhlmanni) and a large wild nutmeg (Cephalosphaera usambarensis). These forests are also home to mammal species, including the endemic Abbot's duiker (Cephalophus spadix), as well as populations of Angolan black-and-white colobus (Colobus angolensis), forest-dwelling populations of the African buffalo (Syncerus caffer), and Harvey’s duiker (Cephalophus harveyi). General Threats: Few of the mountains have protected status and all are threatened by agricultural expansion on lower slopes, firewood collection, and grazing.
adagascar Forests and Shrublands [10] – Madagascar Geographic Location: Eastern and northern Madagascar Biodiversity Features: To biogeographers Madagascar is considered a separate continent because of its long isolation from Africa. Most of the island’s plants and animals are found here and nowhere else, with many species restricted to small areas of the island. The rainforests of the east side, both lowland and montane, are a particularly important center for species endemism. IN ADDITION TO UNUSUAL EVOLUTIONARY PROCESSES, THESE FORESTS SUPPORT GLOBALLY OUTSTANDING LEVELS OF ENDEMISM AT THE SPECIES, GENERA, & FAMILY LEVELS. THE SEVENTH CONTINENT FROM A BIOGEOGRAPHIC PERSPECTIVE Selected Species: Species include numerous lemurs such as indri (Indri indri), the recently rediscovered hairy-eared dwarf lemur (Allocebus trichotis), and ruffed lemur (Varecia variegata). Traveller’s palm (Ravenala madagascariensis), tomato frog (Dyscophus antongili), and leaf-tailed gecko (Uroplatus fimbriatus) are also found in these forests. They also support a rich avifauna, including brown mesite (Mesitornis unicolor), one of three species of an endemic family of birds. Among numerous other endemic birds are Schlegel's asity (Philepitta schlegeli), Madagascar serpent-eagle (Eutriorchis astur), Bernier’s vanga (Oriolia bernieri), Madagascar yellowbrow (Crossleyia xanthophrys), and red-tailed newtonia (Newtonia fanovanae). General Threats: The principle threats to Madagascar's biodiversity come from the small-scale but widespread clearing of forests associated with slash-and-burn agriculture and secondarily for firewood collection.
eychelles and Mascarenes Moist Forests [11] – Mauritius, Reunion (France), Seychelles Geographic Location: Islands to the north and east of Madagascar Biodiversity Features: The Seychelles and Mascarene Islands include both coral atolls and large, rugged, granitic and volcanic islands. The larger islands support unique rainforests, with most species being endemic due to the island’s long isolation. The granitic Seychelles are fragments of the ancient supercontinent Gondwana and thus harbor several relict plants and animals. Smaller islands, such as Réunion and Rodriques, also have high endemism. LONG-ISOLATED ISLANDS OF THE WESTERN INDIAN OCEAN, THE SEYCHELLES ARE A REMNANT OF GONDWANA THAT HARBOR UNUSUAL TAXA AND HIGH ENDEMISM Selected Species: Species include Seychelles sheath-tailed bat, Seychelles kestrel (Falco araea), Seychelles swiflet (Collocalia elaphra). The forests of the Seychelles are also home to the extraordinary Coco de Mer palm (Lodoicea maldivica), with the world’s largest nut. On Réunion, species include Réunion cuckoo-shrike (Coracina newtoni), Réunion stone chat (Saxicola tectes), and olivaceous bulbul (Hypsipetes borbonicus). On Mauritius the Mauritius kestrel (Falco punctatus) has been successfully captively bred for reintroduction, and pink pigeon (Columba mayeri) is also found there. Unique reptiles and amphibians include Aldabra giant tortoise (Dipsochelus gigantea) and the endemic frog family, Sooglossidae. General Threats: In addition to extensive clearing of native forests for agriculture and development, particularly in the lowlands, the natural communities of the islands are seriously threatened by exotic plant and animals. Australasia
ulawesi Moist Forests [12] – Indonesia Geographic Location: Large island to the southeast of Borneo in Southeast Asia. Biodiversity Features: Highest level of MAMMAL endemism in Asia as well as high endemism in birds and plants. some of the largest ultrabasic forests in Asia Selected Species: Mammal species include the unusual Sulawesi wild pig or babirussa (Babyrousa babyrussa), plus the endemic Celebes black (Macaca nigra), and moor (Macaca maura) macaques. In addition, Sulawesi barebacked fruit bat (Dobsonia exoleta), Sulawesi tarsier (Tarsius spectrum), short-tailed Talaud melomys (Melomys caurinus), and Sulawesian palm civet (Macrogalidia musschenbroekii) are found here and nowhere else. Other species of interest include Sulawesi tree nymph butterfly (Idea tambusisiana), swallowtail butterfly, Graphium androcles, lowland anoa (Bubalus depressicornis), mountain anoa (B. quarlesi), sailfin lizard (Hydrosaurus amboinensis), and reticulated python (Python reticulatus). Sula scrubfowl (Megapodius bernsteinii), bare-faced rail (Gymnocrex rosenbergii), Talaud kingfisher (Todirhamphus enigma), pied cuckoo-shrike (Coracina bicolor), cerulean paradise-flycatcher (Eutrichomyias rowleyi), Sulawesi hornbill (Penelopides exarhatus), henna-tailed jungle-flycatcher (Rhinomyias colonus), and bare-eyed myna (Streptocitta albertinae) are found only in this ecoregion and comprise just a small fraction of the avifauna that occurs in this ecoregion. General Threats: While many of Indonesia's larger islands suffer from deforestation, Sulawesi still supports extensive tracts of both montane and lowland moist forests. The island's steep slopes, and the relative lack of commercially valuable tree species, help contribute to the still extensive forests that cover over 60 percent of the island. However, logging pressure is increasing. Additionally, burning forest for agriculture is also increasingly a problem. M oluccas Moist Forests [13] – Indonesia Geographic Location: Archipelago of Islands to the west of New Guinea Biodiversity Features: The Moluccan archipelago, which lies between the islands of Sulawesi and New Guinea, includes hundreds of islands ranging in size from 18,000 km2 to uninhabited islets with an area of only a few hectares. All told, the islands have an estimated 56,000 km2 of both lowland and montane rainforests, covering 80 percent of the land area. The Moluccas are part of a biogeographical zone called Wallacea which contains a mixture of Asian and Australian fauna including macaques, tarsiers (small nocturnal primates), squirrels, and cuscuses (possum-like arboreal marsupials). These forests contain many interesting species of cockatoos and other parrots. This unit which combines Halmahera Buru, and Seram Islands has perhaps the highest levels of bird endemism for its size anywhere in the world. Selected Species: Moluccan tree species include damar (Agathis spp.), batai (Albizzia falcata), Pterocarpus indicus, and Octomeles sumatran. Mammal species endemic to these forests include Moluccan flying fox (Pteropus chrysoproctus), Ceram bandicoot (Rhynchomeles prattorum), Mansuela melomys (Melomys fraterculus), and the largest native mammal, ornate cuscus (Phalanger ornatus). Among the numerous bird species found only here are salmon-crested cockatoo (Cacatua moluccensis), Moluccan woodcock (Scolopax rochussenii), and flame-breasted flowerpecker (Dicaeum erythrothorax), blue-and-white kingfisher (Todirhamphus diops), and grey-collared oriole (Oriolus forsteni). Wider-ranging species, such as Moluccan scrubfowl (Megapodius wallacei) and cinnamon-chested flycatcher (Ficedula buruensis), occur here as well. General Threats: Many parts of this ecoregion include intact forests. However, besides logging, threats include tapping of damar trees and illegal collection of biological resources.
outhern New Guinea Lowland Forests [14] Indonesia, Papua New Guinea Geographic Location: The island of New Guinea north of Australia Biodiversity Features: New Guinea is considered to support a very unusual biota at global scales, with many endemic species, unique higher taxa, and unusual ecological phenomena. The lowland forests harbor over 1,200 species of trees, and one of the richest and most varied bird faunas in the world. HIGHLY Rich and endemic island biota, very distinctive at a global scale Selected Species: Species include the endemic lowland tree kangaroo (Dendrolagus spadix), lowland ringtail (Pseudocheirus canescens), dorcopsis (Dorcopsis luctosa), D'Albertis ringtail (Pseudochirops albertisii), and Papuan tiger orchid (Grammatophylum papuanus). Bird species include little paradise-kingfisher (Tanysiptera hydrocharis), and painted quail-thrush (Cinclosoma ajax). General Threats: Threats to this ecoregion include logging, especially in coastal areas; road construction, shifting cultivation and agricultural expansion; and plantation development.
ew Guinea Montane Forests [15] – Indonesia, Papua New Guinea Geographic Location: The island of New Guinea north of Australia Biodiversity Features: New Guinea, the largest and highest tropical island, has an extraordinary diversity of ecosystems and some of the most remarkable birds, marsupial mammals, insects, and flowering plants on Earth. Highly Rich & endemic island biota, very distinctive at a global scale Selected Species: Species include the world's largest butterfly, Queen Alexandra's birdwing (Ornithoptera alexandrae), king bird of paradise (Cicinnurus regius), the rare black sicklebill (Epimachus fastuosus) and the endemic blue bird of paradise (Paradisaea rudolphi). Mammal species include Doria's tree-kangaroo (Dendrolagus dorianus), striped bandicoot (Microperoryctes longicauda), long-tailed pygmy possum (Cercartetus caudatus), the endemic coppery ringtail (Pseudochirops cupreus), Stein's cuscus (Phalanger vestitus), mountain cuscus (P. carmelitae), the endemic Telefomin horseshoe-bat (Hipposideros corynophyllus), and long-beaked echidna (Zaglossus bruijni). General Threats: Threats include logging, road construction, shifting cultivation and agricultural expansion, and related livestock activities. S olomons-Vanuatu-Bismarck Moist Forests [16] – Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu Geographic Location: Eastern New Guinea Biodiversity Features: This ecoregion includes the islands of New Ireland, New Britain, other associated islands off the coast of New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands. The Solomon Islands harbor at least 148 species of land and freshwater birds alone, over 60 of which are endemic to the region. New Ireland and New Britain support diverse lowland rainforests on volcanic soils as well as higher elevation montane forests. This area is still relatively unexplored and likely contains many new species. ARCHIPELAGO OF ISLANDS EACH WITH HIGHLY ENDEMIC BIOTAS, DISTINCTIVE EVEN FROM NEARBY NEW GUINEA Selected Species: Birds endemic to the ecoregion include the Guadalcanal honeyeater (Guadalcanaria inexpectata), mottled flowerpecker (Dicaeum tristrami), Rennell white-eye (Zosterops rennelliana), Matthias fantail (Rhipidura matthiae), and Malaita fantail (R. malaitae). Mammals include greater flying fox (Pteropus neohibernicus) and Raffray's sheathtail bat (Emballonura raffrayana) General Threats: Intensive logging on the part of multinational timber companies is devastating both lowland and montane forest habitats. Potential threats include conversion of forests to oil palm plantations and increasing pressure from population growth.
ueensland Tropical Forests [17] – Australia Geographic Location: Northeastern Australia Biodiversity Features: Australia has only a small and scattered area of tropical rainforest, yet it is composed of what is believed to be residual fragments of the forests that once covered most of Australia and Antarctica until approximately 15 million years ago. However, the forests are of particular interest for their southern location and the high degree of endemism of their plant and animal species. Many plants with ancient lineages still occur in these forests. The only tropical moist forests of australia, with highly distinctive biota at a global scale Selected Species: Australian king parrot Bennett’s tree kangaroo (Dendrolagus bennettianus), Lummholz’s tree kangaroo (D. lumholtzi), and proserpine rock wallaby (Petrogale persephone) are among the endemic marsupials found in this ecoregion. More widespread species with populations in this ecoregion include agile wallaby (Macropus agilis), eastern grey kangaroo (M. giganteus), red-legged pademelon (Thylogale stigmatica), and swamp wallaby (Wallabia bicolor). The rare tube-nosed insect bat (Murina florium), and coastal sheathtail bat (Taphozous australis) are a few of the bat species, some of which have wider Australasian ranges, found in this ecoregion. Bird species include cassowary (Casuarius casuarius), red-backed fairy wren (Malurus melanocephalus), blue-winged kookabura (Dacelo leachii), forest kingfisher (Todiramphus macleayii), pale-headed rosella (Platycercus adscitus), Australian king parrot (Alisterus scapularis), barred cuckoo shrike (Coracina lineata), yellow honeyeater (Lichenostomus flavus), and the rare golden bowerbird (Prionodura newtoniana). General Threats: Deforestation has led to habitat fragmentation and shrinking populations of such species as spotted-tailed quoll (Dasyurus maculatus, a marsupial carnivore), cassowary (Casuarius casuarius), and ringtail possum (Hemibelideus lemuroides). Introduced species also pose a serious threat to many native species.
ew Caledonia Moist Forests [18] – New Caledonia (France) Geographic Location: Several islands 1200 km northeast of Australia including most of Grande Terre (the main island). Biodiversity Features: New Caledonia is an isolated remnant of the ancient supercontinent Gondwana. This history, combined with the presence of unusual ultramafic soils and climate variation resulting from its topography, has helped produce one of the world’s most extraordinary and rich biotas, despite its small size. The region has very high endemism at species, genus, and family levels, and a diversity of vegetation types. New Caledonia has over 2900 species of vascular plants, of which nearly 80 per cent are endemic, nearly 14% of the plant genera are endemic as well as 5 plant families. There is also a high degree of endemism in arthropods, reptiles, and birds, including the kagu (Rhynochetus jubata) the sole member of an endemic bird family. Giant geckos, snail-eating terrestrial crocodiles, and horned tortoises once formed part of the extraordinary reptile fauna, but have since gone extinct. One of the most distinctive terrestrial biotas in the world, it is so highly distinctive that it is considered a “continent” in biogeographic terms. very high levels of endemism at the species, genera, & Family. Selected Species: Besides the endemic kagu (Rhynochetus jubata), two species of giant gecko, as well as the unique plants Araucaria rulei and Dacyridium guillauminii, are found on this island. The flora is incredibly rich, supporting a diverse array of conifers: araucariads and podocarps. In addition, angiosperms include a number of endemic genera, such as Amborella, Canacomyrica, Paracryphia, and Strasburgeria. General Threats: The major threats are clearing of native habitats, fire, overexploitation of some species, introduced species, mining, agriculture, and livestock grazing.
ord Howe-Norfolk Island Forests [19] – Australia Geographic Location: Islands off the East Coast of Australia in the Tasman Sea Biodiversity Features: These ancient and isolated islands support at least 392 distinctive species, of which 40 percent are found only here. Habitats include subtropical broadleaf, palm, and conifer forests. Selected Species: As their names imply the endangered Lord Howe Island wood rail (Tricholimas sylvestris), Lord Howe rail (Gallirallus sylvestris), and Lord Howe white-eye (Zosterops tephropleurus) are endemic to Lord Howe Island, while Norfolk Island parakeet (Cyanoramphus cookii) and slender-billed white-eye (Zosterops tenuirostris) are endemic to Norfolk Island. Other birds of interest include green parrot (Cyanoramphus novaezelandiae) morepork (Ninox novaeseelandiae), and sacred kingfisher (Halcyon sancta). Among the native trees found in the forests on Norfolk Island are Norfolk Island pine (Araucaria heterophylla), pepper tree (Macropiper excelsum), bloodwood (Baloghia inophylla), and white oak (Lagunaria patersonia). General Threats: Introduced plants and animals are the major threats. Grazing on the islands is also a threat. Indo-Malayan
outhwestern Ghats Moist Forests [20] – India Geographic Location: Western coast of Indian Subcontinent Biodiversity Features: The Western Ghats, which fringe the Arabian Sea coastline of the Indian peninsula, contain one of India's last remaining areas of tropical rainforest. The region supports an enormous number of tree species, including 13 species of dipterocarps, a large commercially and ecologically valuable hardwood tree species. Though the Western Ghats occupy just five per cent of India's land area, the region contains over 4,000 species of higher plants, more than a quarter of all the higher plants in the country. Of India's 112 endemic amphibians, 84 are found in the Western Ghats. the only tropical forest ecoregion of the indian peninsula with high levels of endemism and unusual biogeographic patterns Selected Species: Threatened endemic plants include Actinodaphne lanata and Meteoromyrtus wynaadensis. Orchids include Calanthe triplicata, the white crane or Christmas orchid. Among the endemic amphibians of the ecoregion are Malabar flying frog (Rhacophorus malabaricus), Malabar tree toad (Pedostibes tuberculosus), and Kerala caecilian (Ichthyophis peninsularis). Numerous other animal species are found here, including an endangered goat-antelope, Nilgiri tahr (Hemitragus hylocrius), which is found no where else on Earth. Lion-tailed macaque (Macaca silenus), a primate that is one of the few mammals endemic to the southern Indian rainforests, as well as Malabar civet (Viverra civettina), sloth bear (Ursus ursinus), tiger (Panthera tigris), and Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) are also characteristic of this ecoregion’s mammalian fauna. Endemic birds include Malabar parakeet (Psittacula columboides), Malabar grey-hornbill (Ocyceros griseus), Nilgiri pipit (Anthus nilghiriensis), and Nilgiri flycatcher (Eumyias albicaudata). White-bellied blue-flycatcher (Cyornis pallipes) and crimson-backed sunbird (Nectarinia minima) have slightly wider distributions. General Threats: Logging, agriculture, hydroelectric projects, and urban expansion are the major threats to the biota of this ecoregion.
ri Lankan Moist Forests [21] – Sri Lanka Geographic Location: Southwestern Sri Lanka Biodiversity Features: The southwest corner of Sri Lanka has a rainforest climate, with up to 5000 mm of rain annually. Sri Lanka's rainforests contain numerous endemic plants in addition to several butterflies, birds, reptiles, and mammals that also have limited distributions. island biota with highly endemic plants and animals Selected Species: Among the bird species found only in these forests are the Sri Lankan wood pigeon (Columba torringtoni), green-billed coucal (Centropus chlororhyncus), Ceylon magpie (Urocissa ornata), Sri Lanka grey-hornbill (Ocyceros gingalensis), and yellow-fronted barbet (Megalaima flavifrons). Mammal species found on the island include toque macaque (Macaca sinica), Asiatic striped palm squirrel (Funambulus layardi), the endemic Kelaart's long-clawed shrew (Feroculus feroculus), Ceylon giant squirrel, and the endangered Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) as well as the threatened leopard (Panthera pardus). General Threats: Most of the forests have been cut for fuelwood, cleared for agriculture, or as a result of urban growth, but the remnants in the southern lowlands and the montane habitats protected in the Sinharaja Natural Heritage Wilderness Area, are globally significant for their biodiversity.
orthern Indochina Subtropical Moist Forests [22] – China, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam Geographic Location: Northern Indochina Biodiversity Features: Monsoon forests distributed over a mountainous landscape create a broad range of habitat conditions from drought-deciduous savanna woodland to montane evergreen forests. This ecoregion has the second highest richness value for mammals in Asia and a tree species diversity that rivals the humid tropical forests of Malesia. some of the highest levels of mammal, bird, and plant endemism in Asia are found here. these are the richest subtropical forests in asia, and the most intact example of this habitat type left in asia Selected Species: Asian elephants (Elephas maximus), tigers (Panthera tigris), Malayan sun bear (Ursus malayanus, the smallest of all bears), slow loris (Nycticebus coucang), gaur (Bos gaurus), gibbons (Hylobates hoolock, H.leucogenys, H.concolor), clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa), Tonkin snub-nosed monkey (Pygathrix avunculus), and Francois’ leaf monkey (Semnopithecus francoisi) comprise a portion of the mammal fauna. A few other species of interest found here are the Alexandrine parakeet (Psittacula eupatria), great hornbill (Buceros bicornis), and green dragontail butterfly (Meges virescens). General Threats: Unsustainable logging, shifting cultivation, agricultural expansion, tourism, and extensive illegal hunting pose the greatest danger sto this ecoregion’s biota.
outheast China-Hainan Moist Forests [23] – China, Vietnam Geographic Location: Southeastern China Biodiversity Features: A relatively stable climate over a long period of time has led to the development of a very diverse flora and fauna, including roughly 1,700 genera of seed-bearing plants. Some of these are endemic, monotypic genera; others include relict species, such as the ginkgo tree (Ginkgo biloba) or dawn redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides). RELATIVELY HIGH LEVELS OF RICHNESS IN PLANTS AND A NUMBER OF OTHER TAXA CHARACTERIZE THE BIOTA, AS DO PROUNOUNCED LEVELS OF ENDEMISM IN CERTAIN TAXA. Selected Species: Mammals include serow (Cappricornis sumatrensis) and leopard (Panthera pardus). Birds include species such as pale-headed woodpecker (Gecinulus grantia), black-throated parrotbill (Paradoxornis nipalensis), red-tailed laughing thrush (Garrulax milnei), great barbet (Megalaima virens), long-tailed silver pheasant (Lophura nycthemera), Cabot’s tragopan (Tragopan caboti), collared scops owl (Otus bakkamoena), and rufous fantailed warbler (Cisticola juncidis). Other species, like silver oriole (Oriolus mellianus) have ranges that are partly or entirely restricted to this ecoregion. Endemic amphibians include the tiny Romer’s tree frog (Philautus romeri), Hong Kong newt (Paramesotriton hongkongensis), Asiatic salamander (Vibrissaphora liu), tree frog (Hyla sanchiangensis), and horned toad (Megophrys kuatunensis). General Threats: Habitat loss through agricultural expansion and excessive hunting are of primary concern in this ecoregion. Development pressures caused by high population density and a rapidly growing economy also give cause for concern.
aiwan Montane Forests [24] – China Geographic Location: Large island off the eastern coast of China Biodiversity Features: Because the island of Taiwan is located near the border of the Palaearctic and Indomalayan Realms, its forests support many tropical species at the northern limit of their ranges. One-third of all of Taiwan's plants occur here, including 88 orchid species, and 160 plants endemic to the island. Distinctive island flora and fauna, some of the best remaining examples of east asian moist forests Selected Species: The Taiwan blue pheasant (Lophora swinhoi) and Taiwan long-tailed pheasant (Syrmaticus mikado) are two of fourteen bird species that occur in this ecoregion and are endemic to the island of Taiwan. The flora of this East Asian Island includes many disctinctive conifers such as Amentotaxus formosana, Cephalotaxus wilsoniana, Chamaecyparis formosensis, Cunninghamia konishii, Picea morrisonicola, Podocarpus fasciculus, Pseudotsuga wilsoniana, and Taiwania cryptomerioides. Other significant plants include the cycad, Cycas taitungensis and many angiosperms like Rhododendron, Camellia and Lauraceae that are representative of the east Asian montane forests. Mammals include the endemic monkey, Taiwanese macaque (Macaca cyclopis), and other species more widespread but rare, such as serow (Capricornis crispus), sambar (Cervus Unicolor), Sitka deer (C. nippon), and Asiatic black bear (Selenarctos thibetanus). Amphibians of Taiwan include Taipei tree frog (Rhacophorus taipcianus) and Formosan salamander (Hynobius formosanus). General Threats: Tourism, uncontrolled collection of wild plants, and large construction projects are some of the major threats to this ecoregion.
nnamite Range Moist Forests [25] – Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam Geographic Location: Northern Indochina Biodiversity Features: This range supports several endemic mammals and birds in addition to a number of endangered and threatened species. some of the last relatively intact moist forests in indochina that still harbor large vertebrate faunas, including several newly discovered species Selected Species: Two of the six large mammal species new to science this century were discovered here recently: sao la (Pseudoryx nghetinhensis), or Vu Quang ox, and giant muntjac (Megamuntiacus vuquangensis). Other species include the endangered douc langur (Pygathrix nemaeus) and Asian elephant (Elephas maximus). Birds include the endemic sooty babbler (Stachyris herberti), imperial pheasant (Lophura imperialis), and Vietnamese pheasant (L. hatinhensis), as well as wider-ranging species, such as green peafowl (Pavo muticus). General Threats: Increased commercial logging, large hydropower projects, shifting cultivation, and intensive illegal hunting. Regular burning for agriculture prevents forest regeneration.
umatran Islands Lowland and Montane Forests [26] – Indonesia Geographic Location: Northern Sumatra and islands to the north in the Bengal Sea Biodiversity Features: These forests represent the opportunity to conserve a number of endangered and charismatic species—tigers, rhinos, and orangutans—while simultaneously saving unique forests that are rich in lesser known plants and animals. Highly diverse forests with extensive areas of limestone, high levels of regional and local endemism, one of the last opportunities to conserve populations of Sumatran tiger, rhinos, and orangutans Selected Species: Among the numerous endemic birds found in this ecoregion are blue-masked leafbird (Chloropsis venusta), Sumatran drongo (Dicrurus sumatranus), blue-tailed trogon (Harpactes reinwardtii), and blue-wattled bulbul (Pycnonotus melanoleucus). Other species include great argus pheasant (Argusianus argus), tiger (Panthera tigris), the orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus), lar gibbon (Hylobates lar), Malaysian tapir (Tapirus indicus), and Sumatran rhino (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis). General Threats: The lowland moist forests of Sumatra are rich in plants and animals, but between 65 and 80 percent of these forests have already been lost to agriculture and logging. On the flat lowlands of southern Sumatra, for example, the vast stands of ironwood (Eusideroxylon zwageri), a species of great commercial importance producing an exceptionally durable timber, have been almost entirely destroyed. Sumatra is probably losing its natural vegetation faster than any other part of Indonesia. Indonesia's Mentawai Islands, just west of Sumatra, and India's Nicobar Islands to the north have similar but more intact forests, although these too are threatened by agriculture.
hilippines Moist Forests [27] – Philippines Geographic Location: Philippine Islands Biodiversity Features: The forests of the Philippines support a rich and diverse flora and fauna. Of the roughly 12,000 species of plants and fungi, about 3,500 are endemic, with 33 endemic genera. The fauna of the archipelago is also characterized by a high degree of endemismof approximately 96 species of non-flying land mammals occurring in the Philippines, at least 70 are found nowhere else. There is also a high degree of endemism in Philippine birds, amphibians, and reptiles. This ecoregion combines the moist forests of Luzon, the Central Islands, and Mindanao. Extraordinary levels of endemism in plants, birds, mammals, and other taxa, at both the ecoregional and global scales characterize the biota. very high local endemism in montane regions Selected Species: Mammals include a species of forest buffalo called the tamaraw (Bubalus mindorensis) and the Mindoro rat (Anonymomys mindorensis), found only on the island of Mindoro, and Philippine tarsier (Tarsius syrichta). Threatened bat species in the ecoregion include little golden-mantled fruit bat (Pteropus pumilus), Katanglad fruit bat (Alionycteris paucidentata), and Fischer's pygmy fruit bat (Haplonycteris fischeri). Among the numerous endemic bird species are Rabor's wren-babbler (Napothera rabori), white-lored oriole (Oriolus albiloris), Isabela oriole (O. isabellae), rufous paradise flycatcher (Terpsiphone cinnamomea), Mindoro imperial-pigeon (Ducula mindorensis), and scarlet-collared flowerpecker (Dicaeum retrocinctum). General Threats: Most of the forests and their species are severely threatened by extensive habitat degradation and loss due to logging, agriculture, soil erosion, and hunting. Regular burning in some areas prevents forest regeneration.
alawan Moist Forests [28] – Philippines Geographic Location: The Island of Palawan in the Philippines Biodiversity Features: The flora and fauna of this island displays more affinities with certain islands in Indonesia, primarily Borneo, than other islands in the Philippines. The island contains areas of lowland and montane monsoon forests that support a fauna rich in endemic birds and mammals, among other taxa. Moreover, Palawan has a relatively low population density, which has allowed the island to remain under fairly extensive forest cover. However, two thirds of this ecoregion has been cleared, and large areas have been degraded. Selected Species: The diversity of habitats supports a number of endemic mammals such as the endangered Calamian deer (Axis calamianensis), Palawan fruitbat (Acerodon leucotis), Palawan stink badger (Mydaus marchei), and horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus anderseni). Palawan peacock-pheasant (Polyplectron emphanum), grey imperial-pigeon (Ducula pickeringii), blue-headed racquet-tail (Prioniturus platenae), Palawan flycatcher (Ficedula platenae), blue paradise-flycatcher (Terpsiphone cyanescens), Palawan tit (Parus amabilis), and Palawan flowerpecker (Prionochilus plateni) comprise a portion of the endemic bird fauna of the ecoregion. General Threats: Despite supporting the highest percentage of remaining forest cover in all of the Philippines, illegal logging, hunting, and regular burning seriously threaten the ecoregion. In addition, the protected area system is weak and enforcement of existing law is inadequate.
ayah-Karen/Tenasserim Moist Forests [29] – Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand Geographic Location: Indochina Biodiversity Features: The forests of the Tenasserim Hills in southeastern Myanmar and west central Thailand support a rather distinct fauna, exhibiting characteristics of both the islands of the Malay Archipelago and the mountains of China and India. These forests harbor one of the richest mammalian faunas in Asia, not to mention a rich diversity of birds and amphibians. one of the most intact vertebrate faunas of Indochina, the largest block of moist forest in Indochina, one of the richest forest floras of Indochina Selected Species: Species include birds such as the endemic Gurney's pitta (Pitta gurneyi), and great hornbill (Buceros bicornis). Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), tiger (Panthera tigris), Hoolock gibbon (Hylobates hoolock), Feas’s muntjac (Muntiacus feae), dhole or wild dog (Cuon alpinus), clouded leopard (Pardofelis nebulosa), slow loris (Nycticebus coucang), common leopard (Panthera pardus), bear macaque (Macaca arctoides), and gaur (Bos gaurus) are among the better-known mammals. Trees, such as Dipterocarpus alatus, D. turbinatus, Parashorea stellata, Hopea odorata, Fibraurea chloroleuca, Limacia cuspidata, Calophyllum kunstleri, C. parkeri, Durio zibethinus, plus teak forest species such as Tectona grandis and Xylia dolabriformis, constitute only a small portion of the vegetational diversity that makes these forests so rich. General Threats: Once-extensive forests have already been lost as a result of logging and conversion to agriculture—some areas having been converted to rubber plantations. Logging, resulting both from legal concessions and illegal extraction, continues. Soil erosion as a result of large-scale clear-cutting is of special concern. Development pressures, including dam and highways construction are also problematic.
eninsular Malaysian Lowland and Montane Forests [30] – Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand Geographic Location: Southern portion of Malaysian Peninsula Biodiversity Features: Peninsular Malaysia has a rich flora and fauna, with about 8,000 species of plants, over 200 species of mammals, including 81 bats, 110 species of snakes, thousands of insect species, and a rich diversity of birds. About 60 percent of the bird species and 78 percent of the mammals (excluding bats) live in primary or tall secondary forests. In fact, this region supports one of the richest mammalian faunas in Asia. Many of the numerous species reside in Taman Negara National Park, one of the largest protected areas in southeast Asia, encompassing the largest area of pristine lowland dipterocarp forest left in the country, montane rainforests, and rainforests on limestone. The highest mountain in Peninsular Malaysia, Mount Tahan, is located within the park. one of the two richest floras and faunas of asia AS WELL AS diverse habitat types DISTINGUISH THIS ECOREGION. IT IS ALSO one of the last sites in all of asia where elephant, tiger, and rhino still coexist Selected Species: Species include tiger (Panthera tigris), Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), brush-tailed porcupine (Atherurus macrourus), the endangered Sunda otter-civet (Cynogale bennettii), horseshoe bat (Hipposideros ridleyi), and pipistrelle (Pipistrellus societatis). General Threats: Logging both in the highlands and lowlands, conversion of lowland forest for agriculture and urban development, tourism development, and road construction causing fragmentation and loss of forests are the predominant threats in this ecoregion.
orneo Lowland and Montane Forests [31] – Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia Geographic Location: Southern Borneo Biodiversity Features: This ecoregion is among the richest in the world for floral diversity, exhibiting a rich diversity of montane plant species. In addition, a large number of mammal species, including numerous endemics comprise a portion of the rich fauna. Large areas of karst occur here, as does the only high altitude swamp forest. The diversity of such unique habitats contributes to high levels of endemism. Twenty-three of the 39 mammals endemic to Borneo reside within these forests. BESIDES REGIONALLY HIGH SPECIES RICHNESS AND ENDEMISM FOR PLANTS, THE AREA EXHIBITS HIGH LEVELS OF ENDEMISM AMONG MAMMALS AND BIRDS Selected Species: This forest supports a rich flora, including many species of orchids and rhododendrons not found elsewhere. Several species of Rafflesia, the parsitic genus lacking true leaves, stems or roots, occur here. Mammals include proboscis monkey (Nasalis larvatus), leopard cat (Cynocephalus variegatus), Bornean tarsier (Tarsius bancamus), slow loris (Nycticebus coucang), the endangered orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus), and Sumatran rhinoceros (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis). A number of birds are endemic to this ecoregion, including mountain serpent-eagle (Spilornis kinabaluensis), Whitehead's trogon (Harpactes whiteheadi), golden-naped barbet (Megalaima pulcherrima), black-breasted fruit-hunter (Chlamydochaera jefferyi), eyebrowed jungle-flycatcher (Rhinomyias gularis), Bornean whistler (Pachycephala hypoxantha), and black oriole (Oriolus hosii). General Threats: Only a small percentage of these forests have been cleared, and only a tiny fraction is degraded. Potentially damaging activities include logging, large-scale agriculture and mining, dam construction, illegal collection of species, and shifting cultivation.
ansei Shoto Archipelago Forests [32] – Japan Geographic Location: Chain of islands running southwest from southern Japan Biodiversity Features: The islands have numerous endemic plant and bird species, and the Iriomote Islands contain the world's only habitat for the rare and endangered Iriomote cat (Felis iriomotensis). Unusual patterns of endemism across complex of subtropical islands in East Asia
Selected Species: Species include the Iriomote cat (Mayailurus iriomotensis), Amami rabbit (Pentalagus furnessi), Okinawa rail (Rallus okinawae), and Okinawan or Pyers’ woodpecker (Sapheopipo noguchii). General Threats: Development such as dam construction, logging, introduced species, and expansion of agriculture threaten remaining natural habitats.
astern Deccan Plateau Moist Forests [33] – India Geographic Location: Southeastern Asia Biodiversity Features: These low elevation, relatively dry moist forests, which stretch along the southeastern coast of India, provide habitat for several threatened mammals. However, almost the entire ecoregion has been deforested. Nonetheless, the ecoregion harbors several large mammals of conservation significance. RELATIVELY INTACT ASSEMBLAGE OF LARGE MAMMALS, INCLUDING A PRIORITY AREA FOR TIGER CONSERVATION Selected Species: Characteristic plants include Manilkara hexandra, Memecylon umbellatum, Drypetes sepiaria, Pterospermum suberifolium, and Carmona microphylla. The ecoregion harbors several large mammals of conservation significance, such as tiger (Panthera tigris), barasingha (Cervus duvaucelii), Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), wolf (Canis lupus), Asiatic wild dog (Cuon alpinus), sloth bear (Ursus ursinus), leopard (Panthera pardus), blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra), and chinkara (Gazella bennettii). Species such as crested serpent-eagle (Spilornis cheela), chestnut-bellied sandgrouse (Pterocles exustus), plum-headed parakeet (Psittacula cyanocephala), pied cuckoo (Oxylophus jacobinus), and black-capped kingfisher (Halcyon pileata) comprise a portion of the avifauna. General Threats: Shifting cultivation, quarrying, mining, large-scale agriculture, and hydroelectric projects have resulted in the clearing and degradation of many habitats. Conservation efforts are urgently needed to ensure that the remaining large habitat blocks are not lost. aga-Manupuri-Chin Hills Moist Forests [34] – Bangladesh, India, Myanmar Geographic Location: Southern Asia, NE of Indian subcontinent Biodiversity Features: Richest area for endemic birds, and overall bird richness in Asia, one of the richest mammal faunas in asia Selected Species: This are contains refuges for Miocene flora, examples include Tetracentron sinense, and Amentotaxus assamicus, only recently described. Among the numerous birds restricted to habitats in this ecoregion are Blyth's tragopan (Tragopan blythii), brown-capped laughingthrush (Garrulax austeni), long-tailed wren-babbler (Spelaeornis chocolatinus), rufous-capped babbler (Stachyris ruficeps) broad-billed warbler (Tickellia hodgsoni), and white-browed nuthatch (Sitta victoriae). Mammals include the endangered Hoolock gibbon (Hylobates hoolock), tiger (Panthera tigris), the threatened sun bear (Ursus malayanus) and red panda (Ailurus fulgens), clouded leopard (Pardofelis nebulosa), leopard (Panthera pardus), thamin (Cervus eldii) as well as gaur (Bos gaurus). General Threats: Portions of this ecoregion are in relatively good condition. However, degradation of forests due to ‘Jhum’ cultivation, forest fires, and development projects is of concern. Timber exploitation, both as the result of illegal cutting for agriculture and the illicit cutting and lopping of trees for timber, fuelwood, and fodder are important problems. Burning and overgrazing in many areas leads to the trampling of soils, thus preventing regeneration. Hunting and habitat loss have led to several local extinctions of some mammal species.
ardamom Mountains Moist Forests [35] – Cambodia, Thailand Geographic Location: Southeastern Asia Biodiversity Features: The relatively pristine forest habitats of this ecoregion support intact assemblages of vertebrates, including important habitat and prey for tigers plus an important population of Asian elephants. INTACT VERTEBRATE ASSEMBPLAGES, INCLUDING IMPORTANT POPULATIONS OF TIGER AND ASIAN ELEPHANT Selected Species: Tree species such as Anisoptera costata, A. glabra, Dipterocarpus costatus, Hopea odorata, Shorea hypochra, Caryota urens, and Oncosperma tigillarium form forests that support a number of endangered species: pileated gibbon (Hylobates pileatus), tiger (Panthera tigris), and Asian elephant (Elephas maximus). Other mammals include sun bear (Ursus malayanus), clouded leopard (Pardofelis nebulosa), gaur (Bos gaurus), and banteng (B. javanicus). Some species occur here which are otherwise found only in Thailand's southern peninsula: flying lemur (Cynocephalus variegatus), moustached hawk cuckoo (Cuculus vagans), buffy fish-owl (Ketupa ketupu), silver oriole (Oriolus mellianus), and greater mouse deer (Tragulus napu). General Threats: Due to low human population pressure, the forests of the Elephant and Cardamom Mountains in Vietnam, especially the rainforests on the western slopes, are relatively intact. However, areas in southeastern Thailand have been greatly reduced and now exist only in a few protected areas in hilly regions. W estern Java Montane Forests [36] – Indonesia Geographic Location: Large island to the south of Borneo Biodiversity Features: A rich flora and fauna is found here, including many species not found elswhere, the result of a diversity of habitats. Endemism is highest for mammals, but is also high for birds. Nearly all of the original forest has been cleared to make way for Java's dense and expanding population. GLOBALLY OUTSTANDING ENDEMISM LEVELS FOR MAMMALS, SEVERAL OF WHICH ARE EXTREMELY THREATENED. Selected Species: Forests in this ecoregion contain many species now virtually extinct elsewhere in Java, such as the trees Elaeocarpus macrocerus, Alstonia spathulata, wild mango (Mangifera gedebe), Stemonurus secundiflora, and a huge sedge (Thoracostachyrum sumatrana). Besides the globally threatened surili leaf monkey (Presbytis comata), the endemic Javan gibbon (Hylobates moloch) lives here too. Species, such as the endemic Javan tesia (Tesia superciliaris) and green spectacled pigeon (Treron oxyura) as well as Sunda thrush (Zoothera andromedae), are characteristic of the bird fauna. General Threats: Only five per cent of the original habitat remains in this ecoregion, which is found on the most densely populated island in Indonesia. Erosion and burning pose serious threats to those fragments of forest that remain. Directory: downloads downloads -> Northern England’s set-jetting locations downloads -> Dynatest 3031 lwd light Weight Deflectometer downloads -> Forth coming competitive exams downloads -> Brush High School Morning Announcements Friday, September 05, 2014 all school downloads -> Year 9 The Arts — Music downloads -> Years 7 and 8 standard elaborations — Australian Curriculum: Music draft downloads -> Chris Young sets 2016 “I’m Comin’ Over” Tour headlining dates downloads -> Slavery and Abolition: the Plymouth Connection Introduction downloads -> Summer Assignment Download 2.75 Mb. Share with your friends:
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