Butterfly Habitat Preferences in Bumbuna Forest, Sierra Leone
Author Information
Author(s): Sundufu Abu James, Dumbuya Rashida
Primary Institution: Njala University, Sierra Leone
Hypothesis
The study investigates the habitat preferences of butterfly species in the Bumbuna Forest Reserve compared to disturbed and savanna habitats.
Conclusion
The study found that a significant majority of forest butterfly species prefer undisturbed forest habitats over disturbed and savanna areas.
Supporting Evidence
- 75.5% of forest species showed preferences for forest habitats.
- Species richness and diversity indices were lower in disturbed habitats compared to forest reserves.
- Only 18% of all West African forest species were recorded in the study.
Takeaway
Butterflies like living in forests more than in farms or grasslands, and many types of butterflies are found in the Bumbuna Forest.
Methodology
Butterflies were collected using fruit traps and walk-and-capture methods across different habitat types.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in species representation due to sampling methods and habitat accessibility.
Limitations
The study may not account for all butterfly species present in the region due to the focus on specific habitats.
Participant Demographics
The study area includes a population of about 1,700 people, primarily farmers.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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