Effects of Cyclone Idai on Primate Populations
Author Information
Author(s): Megan Beardmore‐Herd, Meredith S. Palmer, Kaitlyn M. Gaynor, Susana Carvalho
Primary Institution: University of Oxford
Hypothesis
The study hypothesized that there would be an interaction between cyclone incidence, flood severity, and flood level retreat over time, affecting primate detection rates.
Conclusion
Baboons in Gorongosa National Park were able to adjust their ranging behavior to escape the rising floodwaters caused by Cyclone Idai, while vervet monkeys showed similar trends despite lower detection rates.
Supporting Evidence
- Baboons shifted their spatial distribution to less flooded areas after Cyclone Idai.
- Vervet monkey detection rates were lower but showed recovery trends similar to baboons.
- Baboons did not experience significant declines in relative abundance post-cyclone.
- Camera traps were more effective at detecting larger, ground-dwelling animals like baboons compared to smaller, arboreal species like vervet monkeys.
Takeaway
When a big storm hit, baboons moved to safer places to avoid the water, and they were mostly okay afterward. Vervet monkeys were harder to track, but they likely did the same thing.
Methodology
The study used data from a long-term camera trap survey to analyze shifts in spatial distribution and relative abundance of baboons and vervet monkeys before and after Cyclone Idai.
Potential Biases
The study did not directly assess survival rates and could not account for potential immigrant primates affecting detection rates.
Limitations
Sample size limitations for vervet monkeys inhibited statistical analysis.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on gray-footed chacma baboons and vervet monkeys in Gorongosa National Park, Mozambique.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.03
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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