Estimation of Ground Dwelling Arthropod Densities Using Pitfall Traps: Individual Based Simulations
Issue:
Volume 5, Issue 1, March 2020
Pages:
1-5
Received:
26 December 2019
Accepted:
10 January 2020
Published:
31 January 2020
Abstract: Estimation of density of ground dwelling arthropods is important for pest monitoring, landscape restoration, biodiversity and conservation. Existing methods require high amount of time and labor. Considering recent catastrophic decline of invertebrates abundance less invasive methods should be developed. In current paper based on individual based simulations I suggest method for density estimation using pitfall traps. Method is based on “dig in effect”, when traps catch more individuals straight after installation then in following days. Simulation results demonstrated that density of abundant species can be estimated by proposed method with acceptable error range. Suggested method is best suitable for fast estimation of density of abundant species (>2 individuals/m2) or higher taxa, in a large homogeneous landscapes. It can be especially useful in biodiversity monitoring programs and for pest density estimation. Method is not suitable for a long term trapping or for estimation of density of low abundance species and surveying small or narrow habitats (ex. Littoral or riparian zone, edges of habitat). Method presented in current publication can be used for standardization of pitfall trapping and comparison of results from different habitats and periods. Method can be further improved by developing more easy and inexpensive ways of sampling and should be evaluated in the field.
Abstract: Estimation of density of ground dwelling arthropods is important for pest monitoring, landscape restoration, biodiversity and conservation. Existing methods require high amount of time and labor. Considering recent catastrophic decline of invertebrates abundance less invasive methods should be developed. In current paper based on individual based s...
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Smallholder Tobacco Farmers and Forest Conservation in Mutasa District, Zimbabwe
Mango Lawrence,
Kugedera Andrew Tapiwa,
Mango Lovemore,
Mutenje Michael
Issue:
Volume 5, Issue 1, March 2020
Pages:
6-12
Received:
21 November 2019
Accepted:
12 December 2019
Published:
14 February 2020
Abstract: Zimbabwe is among the poorest countries in the world and heavily depends on agriculture for rural livelihoods and income generation. Forests conversion into agricultural land and the use of forest products, in particular fuel wood for the construction of tobacco barns and the curing process has caused destruction to the already depleted forests. The study was carried out in Mutasa District in the eastern highlands, Zimbabwe. Quantitative and qualitative data techniques were used in the study. A total of 60 smallholder tobacco farmers were purposively sampled from a population of 280 tobacco producing households for the survey. The data was collected using a structured questionnaire and direct observations. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Binary logistic. Results show that proximity to the forest (p < 0.001), age of farmer (p = 0.001), agricultural training (p = 0.028) and unavailability of electricity (p = 0.028) were significantly influencing the conservation of miombo woodlands. In the contrary; household size (p = 0.983), level of education (p = 0.525), gender (p = 0.113), unavailability of coal (p = 0.109) and culture (p = 0.078) showed no significant difference in the conservation of miombo woodlands. It is recommended that the government embark on a more vigorous approach in the supply of energy for the curing of tobacco and conserving the existing forests to mitigate effects of deforestation and climate change. Most importantly, smallholder farmers should be educated to use other alternative sources of fuel to promote the regeneration of the already injured woodlands. All stakeholders should be involved in planning and decision making on issues related to forest conservation and technology in tobacco production.
Abstract: Zimbabwe is among the poorest countries in the world and heavily depends on agriculture for rural livelihoods and income generation. Forests conversion into agricultural land and the use of forest products, in particular fuel wood for the construction of tobacco barns and the curing process has caused destruction to the already depleted forests. Th...
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