The Global 200 : a representation Approach to Conserving the Earth’s Distinctive Ecoregions
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- Palearctic
- Boreal Forests/Taiga C
- Nearctic
- Afrotropical orn of Africa Acacia Savannas [86]
- Australasia
- Neotropical
NeotropicalV aldivian Temperate Rainforests / Juan Fernandez Islands [76] – Argentina, Chile Geographic Location: West Coast of southern South America Biodiversity Features: The Valdivian temperate rainforests represent one of the world's five major temperate rainforest systems (the Pacific Northwest of North America, the western Black Sea, New Zealand, and Tasmania are the others). The forests of this ecoregion, including those on the Juan Fernandez islands located some 670 km off the Chilean coast, support stands of enormous trees, containing many unusual species and higher taxa. The Southern beech (Nothofagus spp.) forests are one of only three major forests of this type in the world, the others being in Australia and New Zealand. One of the world’s five major temperate rainforests, the only one in South America Selected Species: Tree species include alerce (Fitzroya cupressoides) and the monkey puzzle tree or Parana tree (Araucaria araucana). Mammal species of interest include the endangered pudu (Pudu pudu) and Andean deer or Huemul (Hippocamelus bisulcus). General Threats: Intensive logging and timber plantations are severe threats to the ecoregion. Palearctic
uropean Mediterranean Montane Mixed Forests [77] – Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Liechtenstein, Macedonia, Morocco, Poland, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Tunisia, Ukraine, Yugoslavia Geographic Location: Islands of montane forest in southern Europe and the northern Maghreb region of North Africa Biodiversity Features: This ecoregion encompasses a wide ranging collection of conifer and mixed forest blocks in the western palaearctic realm. As there is a long tradition of intensive human use in the area, many species are endangered or have already disappeared. The Balkan and Rhodope Massifs and the Carpathian Mountains have the highest remaining diversity. Their biota includes a notable percentage of endemic plants, including many species restricted to limestone cliffs and caves. North African forests are rich in endemic plant species as well. Many taxa have restricted distributions and are represented by a small number of individuals. Western Eurasian temperate broadleaf ANd conifer forests with a relatively rich flora and high levels of endemism. Selected Species:Notable tree species include Spanish juniper (Juniperus thruifera) horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum), Balkan pine (Pinus heldreichii), Mediterranean cyprus (Cupressus sempervirens var. sempervirens), and Atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica). Mammal species found here include wolf (Canis lupis), brown bear (Ursus arctos), European river otter (Lutra lutra), marbled polecat (Vormela peregusna), and Barbary macaque (Macaca sylvanus). Ungulates include two species of chamois (Rupicapra pyrenaica and R. rupricapra), and two species of ibex (Capra pyrenaica and C. ibex). Bird species include black vulture (Aegypius monachus), griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus), Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus), imperial eagle (Aquila heliaca), saker (Falco cherrug) and Algerian nuthactch (Sitta ledanti). General Threats: Logging, overgrazing, pollution, poaching, predator control, and industrial development pose the greatest threats to this ecoregion. In addition, the expansion of towns and villages, trans-alpine communication systems, and tourism pose additional threats to the integrity of habitats.
aucasus-Anatolian-Hyrcanian Temperate Forests [78] – Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, Iran, Russia, Turkey, Turkmenistan Geographic Location: Southeast Europe/ Central Asia Biodiversity Features: The combination of a moderate climate, rugged topography, varied geology, and geographic proximity to both Europe and the Near East help account for the uniqueness and complexity of plant and animal life here. The region functions as a biogeographic corridor between the Mediterranean region and Central Asia. Endemism is high throughout—in the Caucasus alone up to twenty percent of the flora is considered endemic. One of the richest temperate forest regions of western Asia with high levels of regional and local endemism within individual mountain ranges Selected Species: Caucasian tur (Capra caucasica), maral (Cervus elaphus maral), chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra), red deer (Cervus elaphus), and Caucasian bison, (a subspecies of European bison, Bison bonasus) are examples of the ungulates found here. Predators include wolf (Canis lupis), bear (Ursus arctos), lynx (Lynx lynx), and the extremely rare Central Asian leopard (Pantera pardus tullianus). Some of the birds restricted to the region are Caucasian and Caspian Snowcocks (Tetraogallus caucasicus and T. caspius), Caucasian Black Grouse (Tetrao mlokosiewiczi) and Caucasian chiffchaff (Phylloscopus lorenzii). Examples of endemic genera are abundant in the plant genera Agasyllis and Chymsydia (Apiaceae), Callicephalus (Aseraceae), and Sredinkya (Primulaceae).
General Threats: Aggressive forestry techniques, including clear felling and replanting with alien species; spread of alien plant species; coastal development in narrow coastal strips; overgrazing; recreation; and dam construction, in large and small catchments are threats in this ecoregion.
ltai-Sayan Montane Forests [79] – China, Kazakstan, Mongolia, Russia Geographic Location: Central Asia/Southern Siberia Biodiversity Features: The Altai-Sayan ecoregion is a mosaic of coniferous forests, intermontane steppe, and alpine meadows. The mountain complex is well known for exceptionally high levels of plant richness and endemism. There are approximately 2500 vascular plant species with over 120 strictly endemic species. Moreover, the region is a major center of origin for montane floristic assemblages found all over northern Asia. A CENTER OF PLANT DIVERSITY FOR montane conifer AND ALPINE MEADOW ecosystems in middle Asia Selected Species: Mammal species include Altai argali (Ovis ammon ammon), snow leopard (Panthera uncia), Siberian ibex (Capra sibirica), Altai pikas (Ochotona spp.) as well as more common species such as wolf (Canus lupis), brown bears (Ursus arctos) and lynx (Felix lynx). The Altai snowcock (Tetraogallus altaicus) can be found below 3000 meters. Rare plants include Isoetes lacustris, Brunnera sibirica, Erythronium sibiricum, and two rare species of monkshood (Aconitum spp). Genera with the highest number of endemics are locoweed and milkvetch (Astragalus and Oxytropis). General Threats: Forest clearance, plant overcollection and hunting occur along the banks of larger rivers and in heavily populated areas such as the Kusnetsk Basin, Salair, Alatau Kuznetsk and southwestern Altai. Extensive wildfires have been known to engulf huge amounts of forest. Mining is a threat in some locations. Alpine and subalpine areas suffer from overgrazing and associated erosion. engduan Shan Coniferous Forests [80] – China Geographic Location: South-Central China Biodiversity Features: This ecoregion includes habitats from 1300 m to altitudinal treeline (3500-4000 m elevation) in the north-south trendingmountain system that defines the eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau. The Henduan Mountains include peaks that exceed 7000 m and a number of spectacular river valleys. Altitudinal zonation gives this region a high degree of habitat complexity and rich biological diversity. A flagship species of this ecoregion is the rare and endangered giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca), for which a system of nature reserves has been established. Other charismatic mammal species that live here include the red panda (Ailurus fulens) and the curious takin (Budorcas taxicolor). Because much of this ecoregion escaped Pleistocene glaciation, it is supports diverse plant and animal species, many of which are endemic relict species. RICH CONIFER FOREST WITH HIGH LEVELS OF ENDEMISM AS WELL AS THE PRESENCE OF NUMEROUS RELICT TAXA Selected Species: Some of the best-known species in this ecoregion are giant panda and the distantly related red panda. Foremost among the relict plant species is the dawn redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides), which until recently was presumed extinct. Others include Chinese yew (Taxus chinensis), manglietta (Manglietia fordiana), Chinese cedar (Cryptomeria fortunei). Many of these plants represent the last vestiges of once widespread vegetation types. Several rare but wide-ranging mammals are found here as well: takin, Chinese stump-tailed macaque (Macaca thibetana), tufted deer (Elaphodus cephalophus), Indian muntjac (Muntiacus muntjak), jungle cat (Felis chaus), spotted linsang (Prionodon pardicolor) plus the vulnerable clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) and Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus). General Threats: As is the case in many places, the demands of a growing human population threaten wildland habitat, pushing some of the more sensitive species to the brink of extinction. Over the past two decades, China’s transition to a market economy has increased demand for non-timber forest and wildlife products for medicinal and other uses. Despite laws protecting species like snow leopard, tiger and black bear, pelts, penises and gall bladders are sold with impunity in local markets throughout this ecoregion. For example, markets in the town of Songpan, located onthe main thoroughfare between Wolong (an internationally recogonized panda reserve) and Jiuzhaigou (a UNESCO world heritage site) offered several snow leopard pelts for sale to tourists during September 1999 and June 2000. Boreal Forests/Taiga
Low annual temperatures characterize northerly latitudes; precipitation ranges from 40-100 cm per year and may fall mainly as snow. This combination, along with nutrient poor soils—largely a result of permafrost and the resultant poor drainage—favors the preponderence of conifer species (Abies, Picea, Larix, and Pinus), although species of deciduous trees are also rather common: Betula spp. and Populus spp. Ground cover in Boreal Forests and Taiga is dominated by mosses and lichens. Nearctic
uskwa/Slave Lake Boreal Forests [81] – Canada Geographic Location: Northern North America Biodiversity Features: Encompassing a series of plains and mountains, including portions of the Mackenzie River plain and Caribou mountains, this ecoregion experiences cool summers and very cold winters characterized by low precipitation. The resulting habitats—forests dominated by spruce and fir trees—support one of North America’s most diverse and intact large mammal systems. DIVERSE AND RELATIVELY INTACT ASSEMBLAGE OF LARGE MAMMALS Selected Species: The vegetation is characterized by quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides), white spruce (Picea glauca), and balsam fir (Abies balsamea) with lesser amounts of balsam poplar (Populus balsamifera) and black spruce (Picea mariana). A large and relatively intact predator-prey system including wolves (Canis lupus), grizzly bears (Ursus arctos), caribou (Rangifer tarandus), and moose (Alces alces), is distinctive and unique. Other animals include muskrat (Ondatra zibethica), ptarmigan (Lagopus spp.), and snowy owl (Nyctea scandiaca). General Threats: Most of the ecoregion is intact but logging has heavily impacted some local watersheds. In particular, logging in riparian habitats has been extensive and is increasing. Highway construction and oil pipelines pose additional threats. anadian Boreal Forests [82] – Canada Geographic Location: Northwest North America Biodiversity Features: The landscape of the boreal forests in northwestern Canada includes varied plant communities, from lichen-rich open conifer forests to gallery forests of enormous white spruce. In turn, these habitats support a wide diversity of insects, amphibians, birds, and mammals. chosen to ensure representation of the boreal forest habitats in North America Selected Species: Species here include the lynx (Lynx lynx), the world’s largest herd of barren-ground caribou (Rangifer tarandus) in Quebec/Labrador, Arctic ground squirrel (Spermophilus parryi), grizzly bear (Ursus arctos), black bear (U. americanus), wolf (Canis lupis), wolverine (Gulo gulo), snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus), brown lemming (Lemmus trimucronatus), and Northern red-backed vole (Clethrionomys rutilus). Bird species include ruby-crowned kinglet (Regulus calendula), willow and rock ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus and L. mutus), common redpoll (Carduelis flammea), red-throated loon (Gavia stellata), northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis), and the harlequin duck (Histrionicus histrionicus). Characteristic tree species include black spruce (Picea mariana), white spruce (P. glauca), tamarack (Larix laricina), dwarf birch (Betula spp.), willow (Salix spp.), and balsam poplar (Populus balsamifera).
General Threats: Logging threatens southwestern portions of the ecoregion, large-scale mining activities further north are also a major threat. Palearctic
ral Mountains Taiga [83] – Russia Geographic Location: Mountain range dividing Europe and northern Asia Biodiversity Features: The boreal forests and tundra of the northern Ural Mountains support a mixture of European and Asian animal species. The forests are the most intact example of western Eurasian taiga. The most intact LANDscape complex IN Western eurasia Selected Species: Dominant tree species include Siberian spruce (Picea obovata), Siberian larch (L. russica), Larix sukaczewii and Siberian fir (Abies sibirica). There are many examples of Siberian species such as reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) and sable (Martes zibellina) as well as European species such as hare (Lepus Europaeus), polecat (Mustela putorius), and mink (Mustela lutreola). Most birds are not specific to the Urals, but may be found in the European or Siberian taigas. Examples are Eurasian dipper (Cinclus cinclus), golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs), Eurasian dotterel (Charadrius morinellus), northern black grouse (Lyrurus tetrix), and Ural owl (Strix uralensis). General Threats: Centuries of resource exploitation and heavy industry have caused extensive habitat loss and degradation in some locations. Other habitats have been altered through logging, mining, and industrial processing of metals and chemicals. astern Siberian Taiga [84] –Russia Geographic Location: Northern Asia Biodiversity Features: The taiga of central and eastern Siberia is the world's largest tract of unbroken wilderness, covering more than a quarter of Russia's territory. Much of the region is contained within the watershed of two enormous river systems—the Yenisey and Lena rivers. The largest tract of unbroken forest in the world, the best example of intact boreal forests in Asia Selected Species: Dominant trees are Daurian larch (Larix dahurica), Siberian spruce (Picea ovovata), Siberian fir (Abies sibirica), and Siberian stone pine (Pinus sibirica). The understory is composed of dwarf birches (Betula), cranberry (Vaccinium oxycoccus) and bilberry (V. myrtillus). The taiga is home to Russia's largest populations of brown bear (Ursus arctos), moose (Alces alces), wolf (Canis lupis), red fox (Vulpes vulpes), reindeer (Rangifer tarandus), wolverine (Gulo gulo), and sable (Martes zibellina). Avian residents include Golden eagle (Aguila chrysaetus), black-billed capercaillie (Tetrao parvirostris), Siberian Spruce grouse (Falcipennis falcipennis), Siberian accentor (Prunella montanella), great gray owl (Strix nebulosa), and Naumann’s thrush (Turdus naumanni). General Threats: Coal mining, logging, and oil and gas development are underway in the southern part of the ecoregion. Large areas of forests have been cut down for industrial purposes or degraded through air pollution and fires. Several major hydroelectric projects are also planned for the region.
amchatka Taiga and Grasslands [85] – Russia Geographic Location: Peninsula and island chain in northeastern along the Pacific coast of Eurasia Biodiversity Features: This region is one of the Earth's most spectacular and pristine natural areas. Volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tidal waves continually modify the dynamic landscape. A mosaic of tundra and taiga habitats support 29 species of rare and endemic plants. Several species, such as Kamchatka brown bear (Ursus arctos beringianus), occur in unusual abundance and size. a Globally distinctive collection of meadow and taiga landscapes with an abundance of animal life
Selected Species: Forests of Erman’s birch (Betula ermanii), Japanese stone pine (Pinus pumila), Dahurian larch (Larix dahurica), are widespread. There are also stands of Kamchatka larch (Larix kamtscatica) mixed with aspen (Populus tremula) and Yeddo spruce (Picea jezoensis). The peninsula is famous for its population of Kamchatka brown bear (Ursus arctos beringianus), the largest bear in Eurasia. Other mammal species include Kamchatka marmot (Marmota kamtschatica), Okhotsk subspecies of wild reindeer (Rangifer tarandus), and Kamchatka subspecies of sable (Martes zebillina). Steller’s sea eagle (Haliaeetus pelagicus) and tufted puffin (Fratercula cirrhata) are two of many bird species of interest. Kamchatka rivers contain prodigious concentrations of salmon, including chinook (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha), chum (O. keta), pink (O. gorbuscha), coho (O. kisutch), and Kamchatka (Salmo penshinensis). General Threats: Habitats in this region are relatively intact and undeveloped due to low human population density. However, big-game hunting and poaching of brown bears threaten one of the world’s most intact populations of this species. Tropical and Subtropical Grasslands, Savannas, and Shrublands Large expanses of land in the tropics do not receive enough rainfall to support extensive tree cover. The Tropical and Subtropical Grasslands, Savannas, and Shrublands are characterized by rainfall levels between 90-150 cm per year. However, there may be great variability in soil moisture throughout the year. Grasses dominate the species composition of these ecoregions, although scattered trees may be common. Large mammals that have evolved to take advantage of the ample forage typify the biodiversity associated with these habitats. Afrotropical orn of Africa Acacia Savannas [86] –Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Sudan Geographic Location: Eastern Africa Biodiversity Features: Comprised of mainly bushland and thicket, with a gradation to semi-desert grasslands and shrublands in the driest places, this area is of particular biological importance for a number of different taxa, in particular for reptiles. In addition, it is a major center of endemism for dryland plants. However, there are also several endemic species in the more mesic habitats found along the Jubba and Shabelle, the only permanent rivers in the area. IMPORTANT AREA OF ENDEMISM FOR DRYLAND PLANTS IN AFRICA Selected Species:A number of species are restricted largely to these savannas. Birds include Degodi lark (Mirafra degodiensis), short-billed crombec (Sylvietta philippae), and Bulo Burti bush-shrike (Laniarius liberatus). Mammals endemic to this ecoregion include African wild ass (Equus africanus somaliensis), Speke's gazelle (Gazella spekei), hirola (Damaliscus hunteri),dibatag (Ammodorcus clarkei), Grevy’s zebra (Equus grevyi), naked mole-rat (Heterocephalus glaber), and Hunter's hartebeest (Damaliscus hunteri). Endemic reptiles include Taylor's strange agama (Xenagama taylori), similar agama (Agama persimilis), Atractaspis scorteccii, and Parker's leaf-toed gecko (Hemidactylus megalops). General Threats: Habitats have become degraded in many places through the actions of grazing livestock and fuelwood collection, particularly close to villages and towns. The populations of most endemic and near endemic larger animals have declined dramatically and are very fragmented due to illegal hunting following decades of political instability and open warfare over large parts of the region.
ast African Acacia Savannas [87] – Ethiopia, Kenya, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda Geographic Location: Eastern Africa Biodiversity Features: While this ecoregion has relatively few endemic species, its largely intact rangelands support one of the world’s most spectacular migration of large mammals. THESE DRAMATIC savanna/ grassland complexes are among the most distinctive in the world, with globally outstanding concentrations and a diversity of large land mammals. one of the last places on Earth where large migrations of land mammals still occur Selected Species: Species such as giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis), cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus), African elephant (Loxodonta africana), and more than 1 million wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus) typify the popular image of this ecoregion. Other mammals known from this area include hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphuscokei) and Grant’s gazelle (Gazella granti). This ecoregion is also home to tremendous numbers of birds, including a few species found nowhere else, such as grey-breasted spurfowl (Francolinus rufopictus), Fischer’s lovebird (Agapornis fischeri), Karamoja apalis (Apalis karamojae), and rufus-tailed weaver (Histurgops ruficauda). Other endemic species include Scheffler’s dwarf gecko (Lygdactylus scheffleri) and Mpwapwa worm lizard (Chirindia mpwapwaensis). General Threats: The region has many large protected areas, but there are increasing problems with poaching, agriculture, land use conflicts with pastoralists, and uncontrolled trophy hunting.
entral and Eastern Miombo Woodlands [88] – Angola, Botswana, Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe Geographic Location: Central and Southern Africa Biodiversity Features: Covering much of central and southern Africa, the ecoregion is dominated by the Central African Plateau. However, portions of the ecoregion are characterized by flat or rolling hills with local areas of higher relief. Important in terms of species richness, species found here are typical of Miombo woodlands, and in the southwest, Baikiaea woodlands. In particular, there is a high diversity of large mammals, including populations that make up the well-known East African savanna mammal fauna. In addition, some areas support relatively undisturbed natural communities of these plants and anaimals. THE AREA IS IMPORTANT AS A CARBON SINK, AS WELL AS FOR SPECIES RICHNESS AND ENDEMISM . Selected Species: Large mammals found here include species such as Ansell’s shrew (Crocidura ansellorum), a subspecies of Lichtenstein’s hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus lichtensteini), and sable antelope (Hippotragus niger). Among the reptiles are endemics such as Zaire centipede-eater (Aparallactus moeruensis), Platysaurus maculatus, Dalophia luluae, carved worm lizard (Monopeltis scalper), and Katanga beaked snake (Rhinotyphlops kibarae). Black-faced waxbill (Estrilda nigriloris), miombo rock-thrush (Monticola angolensis) and Miombo pied barbet (Tricholaema frontata) are are some of the endemic avifauna. Among the amphibians, endemics include Kanole forest treefrog (Leptopelis parvus) and Witte's shovelnose frog (Kassinula wittei). General Threats: Much of the ecoregion remains sparsely settled and the resulting human population pressures are minimal. Large areas of habitat are relatively intact. Future population growth and associated activities are a potential threat. S udanian Savannas [89] - Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Sudan, Uganda Geographic Location: Central and Southern Africa Selection Criteria & Distinguishing Features: Comprised of expanses of woodland areas, which are mainly deciduous in the dry season, these areas are also characterized by an understory of grasses, shrubs, and herbsThe ecoregion occupies just a portion of a larger area idenitied as a center of diversity for plants, and hence is important for plant conservation. Given the pronounced dry season, there is a large seasonal migration of fauna within the ecoregion in addition to visitation by large numbers of migrant birds on the Afrotropical-Palaearctic flyway. THIS AREA IS HOME TO SEASONAL MIGRATIONS OF LARGE VERTEBRATES. General Threats: Significant loss of original wooded savanna habitats has occurred in this ecoregion, but large blocks of relatively intact habitat remain even outside protected areas. Threats include seasonal "shifting" cultivation, over-grazing by livestock, cutting trees and bushes for wood, burning woody material for charcoal, and uncontrolled wild fires. Climatic desiccation is a further threat, exacerbating the impacts of people's activities, as the ability of the ecosystem to recover from overuse is reduced when there is little rainfall. The main threats to the species of the ecoregion are over-grazing and, in the case of larger animals over-hunting for meat or poaching for trophies. . Selected Species:Characteristic species include the mouse, Mus goundae, Reichenow’s firefinch ( Lagonosticta umbrinodorsalis), Eastern giant eland (Taurotragus derbianus gigas), Roan antelope (Hippotragus equinus),and lewel hartebeest (Damaliscus lunatus lelwel). Australasia
orthern Australia and Trans-Fly Savannas [90] – Australia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea Geographic Location: Northern Australia, Southwestern and Southeastern portions of New Guinea Biodiversity Features: While much of Australia is covered by grassland, savanna ecosystems are far more restricted, being limited to moister areas along the coast. The Kimberley, Top End, and Cape York savannas, along the northern coast, are the best examples of this habitat type on the continent, and they contain many endemic species, such as the Gouldian finch (Erythrura gouldiae). Patches of dry rainforest with high species diversity also occur throughout the ecoregion. THIS ECOREGION CONTAINS SOME of the largest and least disturbed areas of Tropical savanna in the world, with some endemism in several taxa. EXTREMELY HIGH NUMBERS OF MIGRATORY AND RESIDENT WATERFOWL AND WADING BIRDS ARE FOUND HERE. tHIS AREA HAS AN EXTREMELY RICH REPTILE FAUNA AS WELL AS EXTENSIVE MARSUPIAL, RODENT, AND BAT FAUNA. Selected Species: Species include Gouldian finch (Chloebia gouldiae), golden-shouldered parrot (Psephotus chrysopterygius), and freshwater crocodile (Crocodylus johnstonii). Resident mammals, many of which are endemic, include such well-known species as short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus), agile wallaby (Macropus agilis), and red kangaroo (M. rufus) in addition to a number of endemic mammals, such as cinammon antechinus (Antechinus leo) and scaly-tailed possum (Wyulda squamicaudata). Among the numerous wading birds in this ecoregion are comb-crested jacana (Irediparra gallinacea), great billed heron (Ardea sumatrana), and pied heron (A. picata). Breeding populations of several waterfowl species occur in this area, including green pygmy goose (Nettapus pulchellus), grey teal (Anas gracilis), plumed whistling-duck (Dendrocygna eytoni), wandering whistling-duck (D. arcuata), Radjah shelduck (Tadorna radjah), and magpie goose (Anseranas semipalmata). General Threats: Fire management, feral animals and weeds, and grazing pose threats to the biodiversity of this ecoregion. T Indo-Malayan erai-Duar Savannas and Grasslands [91] – Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal Geographic Location: Southern Asia, northern margin of the Indian subcontinent adjacent to the southern slope of the Himalaya. Biodiversity Features: The alluvial grasslands of Nepal and the northern Indian state of Assam are the last survivin remnants of a once extensive ecosystem. These grasslands are exceptionally rich. The dominant grass of the floodplains Saccharum, or elephant grass, grows each year to heights over 7 meters and supports a number of habitat specialists such as benal tiger (Panthera tigris) and its prey base, the chital (Axis axis). The world’s tallest grasslands with the highest densities of tigers, rhinos, and ungulate biomass anywhere in asia
Selected Species: Endangered endemic plants include Begonia brevicaulis. Animals include the greater one-horned rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis), tiger (Panthera tigris), gharial crocodile (Gavialis gangeticus), swamp deer or barasingha (Cervus duvauceli), pygmy hog (Sus salvinius), and hispid hare (Caprolagus hispidus). Three endemic birds occur here; they are the spiny babbler (Turdoides nipalensis), grey-crowned prinia (Prinia cinereocapilla), and manipur bush-quail (Perdicula manipurensis). Other birds include intermediate egret (Mesophoyx intermedia), crested serpent-eagle (Spilornis cheela), banded bay cuckoo (Cacomantis sonneratii), coppersmith barbet (Megalaima haemacephala), bronzed drongo (Dicrurus aeneus), and red-breasted flycatcher (Ficedula parva) among numerous others. General Threats: Poaching, overgrazing, clearing for cultivation, population growth, irrigation projects and water diversion are major threats to this ecoregion. Neotropical
lanos Savannas [92] – Colombia, Venezuela Geographic Location: Northern South America Biodiversity Features: the best example of tropical savannas in south america, with regionally high floristic and habitat diversity, one of the world’s largest wetland complexes Selected Species: White-bellied spider monkey (Ateles belzebuth), tamandua (Tamandua tetradactyla), capybara (Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris), Orinoco crocodile (Crocodylus intermedius), black-bellied tree duck (Dendrocygna autumnalis), white-faced tree duck (Dendrocygna viduata), dickcissel sparrow (Spiza americana), roseate spoonbill (Ajaia ajaja), and the endemic Orinoco piculet (Picumnus pumilus) are all found here. In addition, parts of these savannas support breeding populations of the giant anaconda (Eunectes murinus). General Threats: Grazing, burning, draining; conversion to agriculture, and overhunting are all threats to the biodiversity found in this ecoregion. errado Woodlands and Savannas [93] – Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay Geographic Location: Eastern South America, SE of the Amazon Basin Biodiversity Features: The Cerrado constitutes one of the largest savanna-forest complexes in the world and contains a diverse mosaic of habitat types and natural communities. Among these communities are diverse grassland floras, including many species of large mammals and birds characteristic of this habitat type in southern South America. Patterns of biodiversity are complex and many regional and local endemic species are present. One of the largest tropical savanna-woodland complexes in the world with diverse communities and high levels of regional and local endemism. INDLUDES ONE of the most diverse and intact tropical grasslands Selected Species: Species include maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus), giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla), and pampas cat (Oncefelis colocolo). Bird species include rhea (Rhea americana), the critically endangered and endemic Spix's macaw (Cyanopsitta spixii), red-legged seriema (Cariama cristata), and 13 additional endemics, including white-striped warbler (Basileuterus leucophrys), cone-billed tanager (Nesospingus speculiferus), and dwarf tinamou (Taoniscus nanus). General Threats: Agricultural expansion, which may include frequent burning, charcoal production, degradation as a result of development, and water projects pose major threats to the Cerrado. Grazing of cattle, which destroys native grassland habitats, is also problematic. Temperate Grasslands, Savannas, and Shrublands Known as prairies in North America, pampas in South America, veld in Southern Africa and steppe in Asia, Temperate Grasslands, Savannas, and Shrublands differ largely from tropical grasslands in the annual temperature regime as well as the types of species found here. Generally speaking, these regions are devoid of trees, except for riparian or gallery forests associated with streams and rivers. However, some regions do support savanna conditions characterized by interspersed individuals or clusters of trees. Biodiversity in these habitats includes a number of large grazing mammals and associated predators in addition to burrowing mammals, numerous bird species, and of course, a diversity of insects. Nearctic
orthern Prairie [94] – Canada, United States Geographic Location: Central North America Biodiversity Features: A harsh winter climate characterized by snow, along with a short growing season and periodic, severe droughts shape the vegetation of this ecoregion that reflects an arid grassland ecoclimate. Much of this ecoregion has either been converted to wheat farms or rangelands, however, about 50,000 km2 of the Nebraska Sand Hills is considered relatively intact. Furthermore, the potential for large-scale restoration is perhaps greater in this ecoregion than in almost any other in North America. These grasslands historically contained some of the last extensive habitat for bison (Bison bison) in the U.S. and Canada. Their numbers are increasing, as are black-tailed prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus) populations. EXTENSIVE NORTHERN GRASSLAND WITH GREAT POTENTIAL FOR RESTORATION OF LARGE VERTEBRATE ASSEMBLAGES AND PREDATOR-PREY SYSTEMS Selected Species: In addition to the buffalo and prarie dog, charismatic animal species include populations of the endangered black footed ferret (Mustela nigripes). Efforts are also underway to restore populations of swift fox (Vulpes velox).The dominant grass communities include grama-needlegrass (Bouteloua spp., Stipa spp.) and wheatgrass (Agropyron spp.), and wheatgrass-needlegrass, with spear grass (Poa annua), gramma, and wheatgrass further north. The Sand Hills contain a distinct grassland association dominated by sand bluestem (Andropogon hallii), Calamovilfa longifolia, and needle-and-thread (Stipa comata). Birds include ferruginous hawk (Buteo regalis), golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), sharp-tailed and sage grouse (Tympahuchus phasianellus and Centrocercus urophasianus), clay-colored sparrow (Spizella pallida), mountain plover (Charadrius montanus), and the largest breeding population of endangered piping plovers (Charadrius melodus). General Threats: Much of this ecoregion is now grazed by livestock or has been converted to dryland farming. Primary threats are oil and gas development and the creation of road networks are significant factors as well. Neotropical
atagonian Steppe [95] – Argentina, Chile Geographic Location: Southern South America Biodiversity Features: The Patagonian steppe and grasslands support regionally distinctive communities of mammals and birds, including many unusual genera and families, as well as a rich plant fauna with 1200 vascular species, and 30% endemism, including several endemic genera. The only example of cold temperate/subpolar steppe and grassland in South America, distinctive taxa at generic and family levels Selected Species: Six endemic plant genera, usually represented by only a few species: Philippiella, Neobaclea, Xerodraba, Benhamiella, Eriachaenium and Duseniella. Bird species include rosy-billed pochard (Netta peposaca), Austral rail (Rallus antarcticus), and the endemic Magellanic plover (Pluvianellus socialis). Mammals found among these habitats include two opossums (Thylamys pusilla and the endemic Lestodelphys halli) four endemic Tuco-tucos (Ctenomys spp.), guanaco (Lama guanicoe), gray fox (Pseudalopex griseus), mountain lion (Puma concolor), Pampas cat (Oncifelis colocolo), and Patagonian hare (Dolichotis patagonum). General Threats: Overgrazing and associated erosion, desertification, government-sponsored predator control (e.g. foxes), indiscriminate use of poisons, conversion for agriculture, introduced herbivores, and burning are major threats. Palearctic
aurian Steppe [96] – China, Mongolia, Russia Geographic Location: Middle Asia Biodiversity Features: The Daurian steppe is a sea of grass forming the best and most intact example of an undisturbed steppe ecosystem. The region has a distinct flora and fauna, with a number of endemic species. One of the best and most intact examples of Eurasian steppe and grasslands Selected Species: Pallas’ cat (Felis manul), Daurian hedgehog (Hemiechinus dauricus), and Mongolian marmot (Marmot sibirica) comprise a portion of the fauna. The ecoregion supports six species of crane, among them white-naped (G. americana), common (G. grus), and demoiselle (Anthropoides virgo). One of two known nesting sites of the relict gull (Larus relicta) is within the ecoregion. The groundcover is dominated by feathergrasses such as splendid (Stipa pulcherrima), Siberian (S. zalesskii), fluffy (S. pennata) and dwarf (S. capillata). Typical trees are Daurian birch (Betula davurica), pine (Pinus sylvestris) and Siberian larch (Larix sibirica). General Threats: Overgrazing, agricultural fragmentation, mining, oil exploitation and extraction, and infrastructure development area mong the most serious threats in this region. Most of these threats are concentrated along the Trans-Siberian railroad. 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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