Conservation of muriqui (Brachyteles arachnoides) along Serra do Mar, Brazil
Andre Monnerat Lanna
Due to specific natural history attributes, such as high ecological requirements, some species become sensitive to anthropogenic disturbances. The primate species muriqui (Brachyteles arachnoides) is considered a landscape detective since it can give information on the best management for protected areas network. We will assess populations of muriqui and their dynamic of occupancy in the biggest remaining part of the Atlantic Forest in southern Brazil in order to understand how landscape ecology metrics influence the species. The Atlantic Forest is one of the 34 world hotspots of biodiversity and currently only 11.7% of its original cover has remained, of which more than 80% are smaller than 50 ha. The muriqui is an endemic species of the Atlantic Forest biome and is currently restricted to a few localities, particularly at the Serra do Mar region. Although reminiscent populations are in mountain areas, little is known on the species' occurrence along an altitudinal gradient. Assessing their occurrence and habitat use will allow us to predict the functional connectivity in biodiversity corridors, as well as to identify strategic areas for forest restoration. As a result, we will be able to propose more effective management action plans for this endangered species.