Ecological Insights From Camera Trapping Span Biological Taxa, and the Globe DOI Creative Commons
Jason T. Fisher

Ecology and Evolution, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 15(2)

Published: Feb. 1, 2025

Camera trap research has grown to encompass the globe, with applications in terrestrial, marine, and aquatic environments. Insights on plant, invertebrate, vertebrate communities are rapidly expanding our knowledge of ecological systems. A technological revolution was launched by advancements camera trapping (Kucera Barrett 2011; O'Connell, Nichols, Karanth 2011). "Trapping" an observation a species its environment at fixed place time allowed scientists sample widening range taxa ecosystems. With application appropriate sampling designs statistical models (Burton et al. 2015), have been able answer questions never before possible. Mammal ecologists were early adopters, taking advantage passive heat-in-motion detectors developed 2000s homeotherms (Finn 2005; Vercauteren, Smith, Stevenson 2005). The development larger memory cards long-lasting power enabled use repeated time-lapse photography for ectotherms vegetation, now insights derived from traps span biological hierarchies. In this special issue Ecology Evolution, we invited camera-trap papers around globe showcase depth breadth applications. We particularly aimed representation global south, which rich heretofore relatively untapped potential compared north (Steenweg 2017; Agha 2018; Fisher 2023; Mugerwa 2024). some great versatility scientific they offer (Figure 1). provide unique into species' behaviour, as allow observations without intrusive effects in-person observer (Caravaggi 2017, 2020). Research aspects such parental investment offspring care, can shed new light. Antarctic, Adélie penguins (Pygoscelis adeliae) reproduction varies environmental factors, but also degree maternal building nests, limited resources (stones) (McLatchie revealed that occupying nests earlier, resulting earlier clutch initiation, associated high-quality increased reproductive success. Larger advantageous successful breeding, these more likely be created built Environmental factors mediated relationship, innovative study illustrates what emerge future combines behaviour heterogeneity. Behaviour is important part risk avoidance, many studies showing humans impose perceived mammals, even via non-consumptive activities recreation (Taylor Knight 2003; Larson 2016). British Columbia, Canada, Fennell (2023) examined spatiotemporal avoidance eight large mammals alpine protected area. They observed spatial co-occurrence between ungulates consistent human shield hypothesis (Berger 2007), not expected consequent segregation carnivores humans; instead, (and herbivores) temporally displaced recreationists (Fennell 2023). Scaling up (sensu Steenweg (2017)) landscape 10 landscapes across Canadian west, Granados conducted similar analysis. used hierarchical quantify influence (roads logging) ungulate carnivore site use. Across vast heterogeneous space, found support hypothesis, positive negative responses disturbance (Granados signal temporal ran contrary predictions, overlap people deer road density. Such macroecological studies—made possible networking arrays (Gallo 2019; Fidino 2021; Barnas 2024)–are revealing much about large-scale departures phenomena smaller scales. Territorial defence another behavioural mechanism minimised, sometimes means scent-marking. Previously, most scent-marking focused transmitting individual, receivers harder observe; filled gap. northern Botswana, latrines scent-marked African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) classify behaviours sniffing (less aggressive response) or overmarking (aggressive (Claase Wild exhibited "dear enemy" response competitors, less neighbours than strangers. This changed increasing size responding pack, switching strongly neighbour scent marks ("nasty hypothesis") Animals' activity pattern component illuminated traps, continuously through diel cycle (Frey 2017). Rhode Island, USA, Mayer multi-state occupancy-modelling framework informed data investigate how 14 mammal responded anthropogenic development. All respect magnitude season, illustrating plasticity trait, adaptation (Mayer body complexity species-human interactions their changing contexts, marked challenge coming century. One greatest strengths ability observe multiple syntopic simultaneously (Rovero Zimmermann 2016)–as opposed GPS collars, typically restricted one two species. Thus, community composition like before; being done regions previously rarely researched. Nepal, Regmi native occurrence forest cover livestock detections while declining proximity settlements. provided 15 studied species, including blue sheep (Pseudois nayaur) giant flying squirrels (Petaurista magnificus) relationships diverse understudied region (Regmi South Africa, live uneasy coexistence, competing subject intraguild mortality. placed elephant (Loxodonta Africana) carcasses association shared peak periods black-backed jackals (Lupulella mesomelas) spotted hyaenas (Crocuta crocuta), indicating resource sharing (Honiball Conversely, analysis showed lions (Panthera leo), suggesting latter dominates scavenging opportunities. Parsing apart dominance dynamics key area investigation facilitated Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, van den Bosch aardwolves (Proteles cristata) aardvarks (Orycteropus afer)—both nocturnal insectivores—to examine competitors. fact, multispecies occupancy modelling high evidence commensals: increase food accessibility (van Mozambique's Gorongosa Grabowski, Phillips, Gaynor (2024) explore patterns niche partitioning among mesocarnivores: large-spotted genet (Genetta maculata), civet (Civettictis civetta), honey badger (Mellivora capensis), marsh mongoose (Atilax paludinosus). Statistical analyses no and, indicated civets mongooses, competition syntopy different diets (Grabowski, Differing outcomes ecosystems reveal ways strategies affect coexistence. Many modern contain invasive major threat biodiversity (Rosenzweig 2001). Tianjin, China, Li generalised additive mixed see (Canis lupus familiaris Felis silvestris) three indigenous (Siberian weasels, Mustela sibirica; Amur hedgehogs Erinaceus amurensis, Tolai hares, Lepus tolai) densities along gradient urbanisation. Densities cats, urbanisation, green spaces urban areas predictors density (Li 2023)–a critical finding when growing (Seto Simkin 2022). urbanisation effect Australia Alting dingoes dingo). sought dispersion suggests concentrated should shrink home-range sizes. Both corroborated dingoes, subsidies (Alting 2024), repercussions Australian non-native diversity (Johnson, Isaac, 2007). Prior predator–prey ecology largely radiocollar predation rates predator prey (or both) observed. discern until capability bridged design how–for example–anthropogenic extraction affects predators space time. Boczulak deployed western Alberta, Canada wolves lupus) avoid features extraction, presumably due risk—unless occur those patches, point switch strong selection features. interaction novel availability understanding respond change (Boczulak cougars (Puma concolor) eastern Cougars positively only prey—particularly snowshoe hares (Lepus americanus) (Gaston Invasive white-tailed (Odocoileus virginianus) played discernible role, defying predictions difficult it extrapolate conclusions within same guild. Scavenging, case interactions, prime research, yield competition. northeastern Norway, Lacombe asymmetric Arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus) red vulpes) sites supplied carrion. tended occupied heterospecific, either clearly benefitting. Geographic variation rodent (prey) abundance affected dynamics, yielding delicate interplay potentially cold systems (Lacombe There inherent trapping, so threatened endangered Mortality always concern, moreover, catchability often declines rarity. non-invasive sampler rare United Kingdom (UK), Shannon, Valle, Shuttleworth monitor squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) populations, image-capture rate correlated well live-capture rate. identify characteristics greater inform conservation planning, crucial UK's deforested (Shannon, Climate generate wholesale changes distributions (Pereira, Navarro, Martins 2012), devoted adapt (Boutin Lane 2014). Among pelage primary variably snowy environments, arise whether phenological mismatches snow may occur. Stokes network mountain hare timidus) coat colour climatic gradients. Mountain higher latitudes altitudes retained winter white coats longer did lower altitudes. Moreover, coastal climates inland variable conditions (Stokes spans marine well, continuous video feed commonly "trap" (Willis, Millar, Babcock 2000; Whitmarsh, Fairweather, Huveneers Bulger, Volpe, 2019). Red Sea coral reef, Lilkendey feeding mechanics foraging energy expenditure herbivorous brown surgeonfish (Acanthurus nigrofuscus) yellowtail tang (Zebrasoma xanthurum). Here, "camera trapping" included remote underwater stereo processed AI-driven recognition, classification, 3D tracking. exerted grazing pressure reef spite low biomass. Brown specialist strategy, tangs generalist differentiation maintaining efficiency. combination assisting technologies showcases revolutionary biotic sensing environments (Lilkendey Exciting opportunities lay land-water interface. Sullivan, Rittenhouse, Vokoun cold-water patches riverine These refuges aggregators fish seeking thermal refuges, there become susceptible Avian mammalian pervasive concentrate (Sullivan, southern Mexico, Delgado-Martínez ephemeral water bodies birds seasonally dry tropical forests. surface pools tree holes recorded behaviour. Terrestrial preferentially bodies, whereas arboreal scansorial small medium common bodies; complementary sources thus facilitate gamma (Delgado-Martínez Finland, Holopainen artificial (with eggs) wetlands ground-nesting boreal ducks. Predation surrounded agricultural land forested land. Shoreline had further away contribute duck population Finland (Holopainen summary, work illuminates importance spanning interface, ripe discoveries. Homeothermic focus taxonomic camera-based inquiry expanded greatly frequent timelapse photos. plant phenology (Hofmeester 2020; Sun 2021) plant-insect (Naqvi 2022) very holds exciting potential. California, Simokat pollinator endemic Encinitas baccharis (Baccharis vanessae). focal compare efficacy methods. discovered attended insect groups. Focal underreported approximately half images too low-resolution visually Cameras benefit recording activity; however, dominated Lepidopterans (Simokat study, Gao ground-facing imagery soil-dwelling invertebrate China. quantifying Formicidae, Diplopoda, Gastropoda, Araneae, Coleoptera, Orthoptera, Chilopoda, Oligochaeta. Like scale problems (Levin 1992), abundance, richness, all quite sensitive frame (shooting area), authors effective protocol (Gao As image resolution increases gets cheaper, sure accelerate near future. field nascent endeavour, having newly evolved natural philosophy biogeography parentage past It still developing coherent theoretical framework, suffers scale, middle-number problems, lack unified theories, general laws (Peters 1991; Levin 1992; Lawton 1999; Allen Starr Nonetheless, march on, daily inexorably accumulate. plays role discoveries fast world. networks researchers citizen pooling data, scaling local continental scope 2017) efforts Snapshot USA (Kays 2022), Canada's WildCAM 2023), Safari (Pardo 2021). will scales help us concepts system function. Evolution promote endeavours continuing publish highlight camera-trapping papers, adding virtual online. Jason T. Fisher: conceptualization (lead), project administration software visualization (supporting), writing – original draft review editing (lead). Thanks & editors-in-chief, Drs. Moore, Andrew Beckerman, Gareth Jenkins, especially Marcus Lashley Arley Muth, contributions revisions. thanks, associate editors reviewers who gave generously make peer-review process successful. Jeff Dixon illustrated Figure 1 under direction licence JTF. funded JTF work. author declares conflicts interest. nothing report.

Language: Английский

Diversity, habitat and activity patterns of mesocarnivore assemblages in an Afrotropical protected forest savannah mosaic of Central Cameroon DOI Creative Commons
Ernest D. B. Fotsing,

Meigang M. F. Kamkeng,

Salah Marcel Senge

et al.

African Journal of Ecology, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 62(3)

Published: June 10, 2024

Abstract Little is known about the diversity and ecology of mesocarnivores in Mpem Djim National Parks central Cameroon. Therefore, we undertook a rapid assessment using camera traps from September 2021 to December 2021. The main objective our study was collect data on diversity, abundance relative frequency per habitat type their activity period with distance sampling method. In 1700 trap nights, recorded 53 events seven mesocarnivores, all belonging family Viveridae, Herpesdidae Felidae which yield 3.12 100 days. black‐legged mongoose ( Bdeogale nigripes , Pucheran, 1855) exhibited highest capture rate (CR, 0.88). long‐nosed Xenogale naso, Winton, 1901) found habitats class more active mesocarnivore. Shannon‐Weaver index (H) showed high species community near primary forest. We obtained lower dominance one over other, richness even distribution between habitats. Our results suggest possible spatio‐temporal niche partitioning recorded, blotched genet (Genetta maculata, Gray, 1830), showing no clear peak activity. However, rarefaction curve indicates that effort expended insufficient, suggesting additional required obtain reasonable estimate within community. patterns were generally similar those reported elsewhere but some behavioural flexibility. Although these are listed as Least Concern by IUCN, low number may indicate be threatened this area if effective conservation strategies not implemented.

Language: Английский

Citations

5
Limited spatiotemporal niche partitioning among mesocarnivores in Gorongosa National Park, Mozambique DOI
K. Grabowski,

Erin M. Phillips,

Kaitlyn M. Gaynor

et al.

Ecology and Evolution, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 14(2)

Published: Feb. 1, 2024

Competition drives community composition and structure in many ecosystems. Spatial temporal niche partitioning, which competing species divide the environment space or time, are mechanisms that may allow for coexistence among ecologically similar species. Such division of resources be especially important carnivores African savannas, support diverse carnivore assemblages. We used camera traps to explore patterns spatial partitioning four mesocarnivore Mozambique's Gorongosa National Park: large-spotted genet (

Language: Английский

Citations

4
Habitat Occupancy of Brown Hyaenas and Civets in a Multi‐Predator, Semi‐Arid Savanna Landscape DOI Creative Commons
Allan Tarugara,

Bruce W. Clegg

African Journal of Ecology, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 63(2)

Published: March 1, 2025

ABSTRACT Studies on African carnivores usually focus the large cats, and limited attention is given to less charismatic species such as brown hyaenas ( Parahyaena brunnea ) civets Civettictis civetta ), despite their important role in ecosystem function balance. The determinants of hyaena civet space use are not well documented across range, information ecological habits limited. Camera trapping a widely used survey approach for recording carnivore presence recent studies have piggybacked camera trap by‐catch data gain insight into ecologies understudied species. In this paper, we from leopard model habitat selection occupancy at Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, Zimbabwe. Our study found that increased with distance surface water, while were associated areas high shrub canopy volume. distribution both coincided top predators, suggesting co‐existence. We posit where subordinate adapted co‐existing environmental factors water cover key influencing choice.

Language: Английский

Citations

0
Ecological Insights From Camera Trapping Span Biological Taxa, and the Globe DOI Creative Commons
Jason T. Fisher

Ecology and Evolution, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 15(2)

Published: Feb. 1, 2025

Camera trap research has grown to encompass the globe, with applications in terrestrial, marine, and aquatic environments. Insights on plant, invertebrate, vertebrate communities are rapidly expanding our knowledge of ecological systems. A technological revolution was launched by advancements camera trapping (Kucera Barrett 2011; O'Connell, Nichols, Karanth 2011). "Trapping" an observation a species its environment at fixed place time allowed scientists sample widening range taxa ecosystems. With application appropriate sampling designs statistical models (Burton et al. 2015), have been able answer questions never before possible. Mammal ecologists were early adopters, taking advantage passive heat-in-motion detectors developed 2000s homeotherms (Finn 2005; Vercauteren, Smith, Stevenson 2005). The development larger memory cards long-lasting power enabled use repeated time-lapse photography for ectotherms vegetation, now insights derived from traps span biological hierarchies. In this special issue Ecology Evolution, we invited camera-trap papers around globe showcase depth breadth applications. We particularly aimed representation global south, which rich heretofore relatively untapped potential compared north (Steenweg 2017; Agha 2018; Fisher 2023; Mugerwa 2024). some great versatility scientific they offer (Figure 1). provide unique into species' behaviour, as allow observations without intrusive effects in-person observer (Caravaggi 2017, 2020). Research aspects such parental investment offspring care, can shed new light. Antarctic, Adélie penguins (Pygoscelis adeliae) reproduction varies environmental factors, but also degree maternal building nests, limited resources (stones) (McLatchie revealed that occupying nests earlier, resulting earlier clutch initiation, associated high-quality increased reproductive success. Larger advantageous successful breeding, these more likely be created built Environmental factors mediated relationship, innovative study illustrates what emerge future combines behaviour heterogeneity. Behaviour is important part risk avoidance, many studies showing humans impose perceived mammals, even via non-consumptive activities recreation (Taylor Knight 2003; Larson 2016). British Columbia, Canada, Fennell (2023) examined spatiotemporal avoidance eight large mammals alpine protected area. They observed spatial co-occurrence between ungulates consistent human shield hypothesis (Berger 2007), not expected consequent segregation carnivores humans; instead, (and herbivores) temporally displaced recreationists (Fennell 2023). Scaling up (sensu Steenweg (2017)) landscape 10 landscapes across Canadian west, Granados conducted similar analysis. used hierarchical quantify influence (roads logging) ungulate carnivore site use. Across vast heterogeneous space, found support hypothesis, positive negative responses disturbance (Granados signal temporal ran contrary predictions, overlap people deer road density. Such macroecological studies—made possible networking arrays (Gallo 2019; Fidino 2021; Barnas 2024)–are revealing much about large-scale departures phenomena smaller scales. Territorial defence another behavioural mechanism minimised, sometimes means scent-marking. Previously, most scent-marking focused transmitting individual, receivers harder observe; filled gap. northern Botswana, latrines scent-marked African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) classify behaviours sniffing (less aggressive response) or overmarking (aggressive (Claase Wild exhibited "dear enemy" response competitors, less neighbours than strangers. This changed increasing size responding pack, switching strongly neighbour scent marks ("nasty hypothesis") Animals' activity pattern component illuminated traps, continuously through diel cycle (Frey 2017). Rhode Island, USA, Mayer multi-state occupancy-modelling framework informed data investigate how 14 mammal responded anthropogenic development. All respect magnitude season, illustrating plasticity trait, adaptation (Mayer body complexity species-human interactions their changing contexts, marked challenge coming century. One greatest strengths ability observe multiple syntopic simultaneously (Rovero Zimmermann 2016)–as opposed GPS collars, typically restricted one two species. Thus, community composition like before; being done regions previously rarely researched. Nepal, Regmi native occurrence forest cover livestock detections while declining proximity settlements. provided 15 studied species, including blue sheep (Pseudois nayaur) giant flying squirrels (Petaurista magnificus) relationships diverse understudied region (Regmi South Africa, live uneasy coexistence, competing subject intraguild mortality. placed elephant (Loxodonta Africana) carcasses association shared peak periods black-backed jackals (Lupulella mesomelas) spotted hyaenas (Crocuta crocuta), indicating resource sharing (Honiball Conversely, analysis showed lions (Panthera leo), suggesting latter dominates scavenging opportunities. Parsing apart dominance dynamics key area investigation facilitated Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, van den Bosch aardwolves (Proteles cristata) aardvarks (Orycteropus afer)—both nocturnal insectivores—to examine competitors. fact, multispecies occupancy modelling high evidence commensals: increase food accessibility (van Mozambique's Gorongosa Grabowski, Phillips, Gaynor (2024) explore patterns niche partitioning among mesocarnivores: large-spotted genet (Genetta maculata), civet (Civettictis civetta), honey badger (Mellivora capensis), marsh mongoose (Atilax paludinosus). Statistical analyses no and, indicated civets mongooses, competition syntopy different diets (Grabowski, Differing outcomes ecosystems reveal ways strategies affect coexistence. Many modern contain invasive major threat biodiversity (Rosenzweig 2001). Tianjin, China, Li generalised additive mixed see (Canis lupus familiaris Felis silvestris) three indigenous (Siberian weasels, Mustela sibirica; Amur hedgehogs Erinaceus amurensis, Tolai hares, Lepus tolai) densities along gradient urbanisation. Densities cats, urbanisation, green spaces urban areas predictors density (Li 2023)–a critical finding when growing (Seto Simkin 2022). urbanisation effect Australia Alting dingoes dingo). sought dispersion suggests concentrated should shrink home-range sizes. Both corroborated dingoes, subsidies (Alting 2024), repercussions Australian non-native diversity (Johnson, Isaac, 2007). Prior predator–prey ecology largely radiocollar predation rates predator prey (or both) observed. discern until capability bridged design how–for example–anthropogenic extraction affects predators space time. Boczulak deployed western Alberta, Canada wolves lupus) avoid features extraction, presumably due risk—unless occur those patches, point switch strong selection features. interaction novel availability understanding respond change (Boczulak cougars (Puma concolor) eastern Cougars positively only prey—particularly snowshoe hares (Lepus americanus) (Gaston Invasive white-tailed (Odocoileus virginianus) played discernible role, defying predictions difficult it extrapolate conclusions within same guild. Scavenging, case interactions, prime research, yield competition. northeastern Norway, Lacombe asymmetric Arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus) red vulpes) sites supplied carrion. tended occupied heterospecific, either clearly benefitting. Geographic variation rodent (prey) abundance affected dynamics, yielding delicate interplay potentially cold systems (Lacombe There inherent trapping, so threatened endangered Mortality always concern, moreover, catchability often declines rarity. non-invasive sampler rare United Kingdom (UK), Shannon, Valle, Shuttleworth monitor squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) populations, image-capture rate correlated well live-capture rate. identify characteristics greater inform conservation planning, crucial UK's deforested (Shannon, Climate generate wholesale changes distributions (Pereira, Navarro, Martins 2012), devoted adapt (Boutin Lane 2014). Among pelage primary variably snowy environments, arise whether phenological mismatches snow may occur. Stokes network mountain hare timidus) coat colour climatic gradients. Mountain higher latitudes altitudes retained winter white coats longer did lower altitudes. Moreover, coastal climates inland variable conditions (Stokes spans marine well, continuous video feed commonly "trap" (Willis, Millar, Babcock 2000; Whitmarsh, Fairweather, Huveneers Bulger, Volpe, 2019). Red Sea coral reef, Lilkendey feeding mechanics foraging energy expenditure herbivorous brown surgeonfish (Acanthurus nigrofuscus) yellowtail tang (Zebrasoma xanthurum). Here, "camera trapping" included remote underwater stereo processed AI-driven recognition, classification, 3D tracking. exerted grazing pressure reef spite low biomass. Brown specialist strategy, tangs generalist differentiation maintaining efficiency. combination assisting technologies showcases revolutionary biotic sensing environments (Lilkendey Exciting opportunities lay land-water interface. Sullivan, Rittenhouse, Vokoun cold-water patches riverine These refuges aggregators fish seeking thermal refuges, there become susceptible Avian mammalian pervasive concentrate (Sullivan, southern Mexico, Delgado-Martínez ephemeral water bodies birds seasonally dry tropical forests. surface pools tree holes recorded behaviour. Terrestrial preferentially bodies, whereas arboreal scansorial small medium common bodies; complementary sources thus facilitate gamma (Delgado-Martínez Finland, Holopainen artificial (with eggs) wetlands ground-nesting boreal ducks. Predation surrounded agricultural land forested land. Shoreline had further away contribute duck population Finland (Holopainen summary, work illuminates importance spanning interface, ripe discoveries. Homeothermic focus taxonomic camera-based inquiry expanded greatly frequent timelapse photos. plant phenology (Hofmeester 2020; Sun 2021) plant-insect (Naqvi 2022) very holds exciting potential. California, Simokat pollinator endemic Encinitas baccharis (Baccharis vanessae). focal compare efficacy methods. discovered attended insect groups. Focal underreported approximately half images too low-resolution visually Cameras benefit recording activity; however, dominated Lepidopterans (Simokat study, Gao ground-facing imagery soil-dwelling invertebrate China. quantifying Formicidae, Diplopoda, Gastropoda, Araneae, Coleoptera, Orthoptera, Chilopoda, Oligochaeta. Like scale problems (Levin 1992), abundance, richness, all quite sensitive frame (shooting area), authors effective protocol (Gao As image resolution increases gets cheaper, sure accelerate near future. field nascent endeavour, having newly evolved natural philosophy biogeography parentage past It still developing coherent theoretical framework, suffers scale, middle-number problems, lack unified theories, general laws (Peters 1991; Levin 1992; Lawton 1999; Allen Starr Nonetheless, march on, daily inexorably accumulate. plays role discoveries fast world. networks researchers citizen pooling data, scaling local continental scope 2017) efforts Snapshot USA (Kays 2022), Canada's WildCAM 2023), Safari (Pardo 2021). will scales help us concepts system function. Evolution promote endeavours continuing publish highlight camera-trapping papers, adding virtual online. Jason T. Fisher: conceptualization (lead), project administration software visualization (supporting), writing – original draft review editing (lead). Thanks & editors-in-chief, Drs. Moore, Andrew Beckerman, Gareth Jenkins, especially Marcus Lashley Arley Muth, contributions revisions. thanks, associate editors reviewers who gave generously make peer-review process successful. Jeff Dixon illustrated Figure 1 under direction licence JTF. funded JTF work. author declares conflicts interest. nothing report.

Language: Английский

Citations

0