Ana Cecilia Ochoa
Other projects
4 Aug 2022
Implementing Long Term Biodiversity Monitoring through RAPELD Methodology in Central Argentina. Step Two: Medium and Large Size Mammals´ Assemblages
This project will initiate the monitoring of small mammals´ assemblages using RAPELD methodology across the Monte and Chaco Eco regions of central Argentina, allowing long term comparisons of alfa and beta diversity at different spatial scales and integrated data analysis.
It will provide with basic ecological information of central Argentina small mammal species which are poorly reported, making available information for managing decisions. It will also strengthen bonds between local communities and nature, through collaborative participative monitoring.
The project also aims to disseminate information on native fauna of Central Argentina, in scientific meetings, through scientific publications and by the generation of didactic material in different formats, to be used in schools and touristic centers. This way we hope to collaborate with future conservation and favour ethical attitudes towards environment in local communities.
Long term biodiversity monitoring is essential for understanding ecological processes. In semi-arid ecosystems, extreme variability of conditions through space and time, cause great fluctuations in population densities. This variability, enhances the need of long term monitoring. In particular, knowing about the ecology, abundance and distribution of small mammals is a pillar base for understanding a natural system´s complexity, for they are basal preys in the community.
The Program for Biodiversity Research (PPBio), through it´s innovative RAPELD methodology proposes standardized, modular sampling of organisms, collaborative-interdisciplinary scientific work and collaborative database construction. In this project we will monitor small mammals´ assemblages using RAPELD methodology across the Monte and Chaco Eco regions of central Argentina, allowing long term comparisons at different spatial scales and integrated data analysis.
This proposal will allow for the solid implementation of RAPELD and PPBio research program, in Argentina, strengthening bonds between scientists of different institutions and Brazilian co-operators.