Variation of mammal diversity along a gradient separated by geographic barriers within the Andes of Perú

Abstract

The protection of many mammal species is restrained by anthropogenic pressures. For this reason, using camera traps is critical to learning about the characteristics of their populations and communities, especially when geographic barriers limit their dispersal. This study aimed to measure the variation in mammal diversity in three areas under different protection levels (Piñi Piñi, Manu Learning Centre, and Aguanos), separated by geographic barriers within the Manu Biosphere Reserve. Relative abundance indices, correspondence analysis, non-metric multidimensional scaling, diversity analysis using Hill numbers, similarity analysis, and Bray-Curtis beta diversity partitioning were measured with the recorded data. Overall, 193 individuals of 36 species were recorded, some showing area preference. Didelphis marsupialis, Dicotyles tajacu, and Sylvilagus brasiliensis prefer areas with a lower protection level. According to Hill´s diversity indices, the most diverse area is the Manu Learning Centre. The three areas show variations in diversity due to changes in their composition (balanced variation) influenced by geographic barriers, such as Cerro Teparo Punta and the Alto Madre de Dios River.