The preservation of biodiversity is a global priority. Especially for endemic species like the Tamaraw and Warty Pigs that face unique challenges in their limited habitats.
A recent study titled “Ensemble modeling to identify high conservation value areas for endemic and elusive large-sized mammals of the Philippines,” authored by Don Enrico Buebos-Esteve, John Carlo Redeña-Santos, and Nikki Heherson A. Dagamac (2024) offers new insights into conservation strategies for the critically endangered tamaraw (Bubalus mindorensis) and the vulnerable Mindoro warty pig (Sus oliveri) on Mindoro Island.
This blog post explores the study’s findings and their implications for conservation efforts.
Jump Links
- Tamaraws and Warty Pigs: a Brief Introduction
- Understanding the Study
- Key Findings of the Study
- Implications for Conservation
If you care to learn more about other research like the one we elaborate on below, you are in luck. In this blog, we try to bring animals closer to humans. Speaking about their characteristics, challenges, and why they matter. We do this because we are aware that a sustainable future isn’t possible without wildlife conservation, after all, animals are the guardians of the ecosystems humans rely on. Below we share a few other blog posts we’ve written on recent research about animals and their conservation.
- Sea Level Rise Threatens Sea Turtles: New Research Findings
- Conservation Success Story: Recovery of the Svalbard Reindeer
- Why Do Flamingos Lose Their Pink? and Why They May Go Extinct
- Research Exposes that Chimpanzees Self-Medicate With Plants
Let’s continue with the blog post.
Tamaraws and Warty Pigs: a Brief Introduction
The Tamaraw
The Tamaraw, scientifically known as Bubalus mindorensis, is a large, hoofed mammal endemic to the island of Mindoro in the Philippines. Here’s an overview of this species:
- Habitat: These herbivorous animals inhabit grasslands and forest perimeters.
- Diet: Tamaraws thrive on a diet primarily consisting of various grasses and bamboo shoots.
- Physical Appearance: They are characterized by their compact size, greyish-black coloration, distinctive spinal stripe, and robust backward-pointing horns.
- Behavior: Despite their solitary nature, Tamaraws can be aggressive toward humans, particularly males.
Currently, only about 600 Tamaraws remain, with the majority residing in the Mounts Iglit-Baco Natural Park. Their population faces severe threats from poaching, habitat loss due to agricultural expansion, and hunting. Conservation efforts, led by the Tamaraw Conservation Program (TCP) and supported by various NGOs, focus on anti-poaching measures, habitat restoration, and community involvement to protect and preserve this critically endangered species.
If you want to learn more about the Tamaraw, you can read the profile we did last year about this species.
Oliver’s Warty Pigs
Oliver’s Warty Pigs (Sus oliveri), are a vulnerable species endemic to the island of Mindoro in the Philippines. Some general facts about them:
- Habitat: This species inhabits a range of environments, including forests, savannas, shrublands, and grasslands, predominantly at higher elevations above 800 meters.
- Physical Appearance: Physically, it’s characterized by its distinct warty face and dark grey coloration.
- Diet: Regarding feeding habits, Oliver’s Warty Pig is adapted to a diet of tubers, fallen fruit, and invertebrates.
The population of Sus oliveri is in decline, primarily due to habitat loss from deforestation, agricultural expansion, and hunting pressures. Hybridization with domestic pigs also poses a significant threat to its genetic integrity.
Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection, stricter enforcement of hunting regulations, and public awareness campaigns to safeguard this species. The Mounts Iglit-Baco National Park and other protected areas provide some refuge for the remaining populations, though their effectiveness varies.
If you want to learn more about this species, you can read their profile on the IUCN Red List.
Understanding the Study
The study aims to identify High Conservation Value Areas (HCVAs) for the tamaraw and the Mindoro warty pig using ensemble species distribution modeling (SDM). These two species are emblematic of Mindoro Island but face significant socioecological pressures within their contracting home ranges. Conservation efforts are particularly challenging due to the animals’ elusive behavior and their coexistence with indigenous tribes.
What is Ensemble Species Distribution Modeling (SDM)?
SDM is a tool used to assess species-environment relationships and estimate a species’ ecological niche and potential spatial distribution. Traditional SDMs often rely on a single algorithm, which can introduce uncertainties and biases. In contrast, ensemble SDMs use multiple algorithms to create a more robust and accurate prediction. The study utilized nine algorithms and developed three types of ensemble SDMs with varying levels of model complexity: standard, tuned, and limited.
Key Findings of the Study
- High Conservation Value Areas Identified: The study identified 405.17 km² (3.83%) of Mindoro Island as HCVAs for both the tamaraw and the Mindoro warty pig. These areas are fragmented into four patches across the Mindoro Mountain Range: Mt. Calavite Wildlife Sanctuary, Upper Amnay Watershed, Aruyan-Malati, and Mts. Iglit-Baco National Park.
- Model Accuracy: The limited ensemble SDMs showed good discriminatory performance with True Skill Statistics (TSS) of 0.740 for the tamaraw and 0.855 for the Mindoro warty pig. These models predict that the known occurrence sites of these species are areas of high suitability.
- Harmonization with Ongoing Projects: The findings align with the ongoing Mindoro Island Biodiversity (BD) Corridor Project. Emphasizing the importance of strategic management of these identified HCVAs.
Implications for Conservation
The study’s use of ensemble SDMs offers a more reliable method for identifying conservation areas compared to traditional single-algorithm approaches. This is particularly important for species like the tamaraw and the Mindoro warty pig, which have small, fragmented populations and face significant anthropogenic pressures.
Challenges and Recommendations
- Fragmentation and Habitat Loss: The identified HCVAs are fragmented, which poses a challenge for the conservation of these species. Effective management strategies must address habitat connectivity to ensure the survival of these populations.
- Collaboration with Indigenous Communities: The coexistence of these species with indigenous tribes requires a collaborative approach to conservation that respects the livelihoods and traditions of local communities.
- Policy and Funding: The study advocates for the informed use of ensemble SDMs in conservation planning and policy-making. Adequate funding and support from both governmental and non-governmental organizations are crucial for the implementation of these strategies.
Conclusion
The study by Buebos-Esteve, Redeña-Santos, and Dagamac (2024) represents a significant step forward in conservation science. Providing a robust framework for identifying high conservation value areas for endemic species. By adopting ensemble species distribution modeling, conservationists can develop more accurate and effective strategies to protect the tamaraw and the Mindoro warty pig, ensuring their survival for future generations.
For more insights into the challenges and efforts surrounding the conservation of the tamaraw, you can read the blog post we wrote last year about research findings regarding their endangered status.
Feel free to share your thoughts or any questions you might have about this study and its implications for conservation in the comments below. Together, we can support efforts to preserve these unique and endangered species.