Distribution and status of threatened and endemic marsupials on the offshore islands of south-east Sulawesi, Indonesia

Abstract

We highlight hitherto unreported populations of two globally threatened phalangerid species on south-east Sulawesi’s offshore islands – bear cuscus (Ailurops ursinus) and small Sulawesi cuscus (Strigocuscus celebensis) – and observations of a third range-restricted species – Peleng cuscus (Strigocuscus pelengensis). Our data are based on records made during 11 years of seasonal surveys on Buton, and short-term expeditions to Kabaena and Manui. Our observations of S. celebensis on Buton, where it occurs in three protected areas, represent an important range extension for this species, as do our observations of A. ursinus on Kabaena, where it is also widespread. We also report the unexpected presence of S. pelengensis on Manui. Buton, in particular, appears to be an important stronghold for both A. ursinus and S. celebensis, given that forest ecosystems here remain extensive and relatively intact. Both these species may also display a previously unreported adaptability to disturbed forest and even some non-forest habitats within our study area. Hunting pressures, a proven threat to these species in northern Sulawesi, may also be lesser here.

Kepadatan Kuskus Genus Phalanger Dan Identifikasi Tumbuhan Pakannya Di Pulau Obi

“…Kondsi habitat yang baik akan memberikan dampak positif bagi kehidupan kuskus, begitu juga sebaliknya kondisi habitat yang tidak baik akan memberikan dampak negatif bagi kehidupan Kuskus. Indikator dari habitat satwa yang baik adalah tersedianya sumber pakan yang cukup, baik dari segi kelimpahan jenis maupun jumlahnya (Martin et al, 2018).…”

First record of acoustic behaviour in Sulawesi bear cuscus (Ailurops ursinus)

“…This first known recording of acoustic behaviour and associated displays in A. ursinus contributes to the knowledge of acoustical repertoire and behaviour of the species and marsupials in general (Hogan & Morrow 2015). Recordings such as these contribute to an increased understanding of the natural history, and ecological knowledge of a poorly known, enigmatic species (Shepherd et al 2018;Martin et al 2019). We hope that documenting this opportunistic field observation will provide a basis for further acoustic study of phalangerids.…”

“…It is the most primitive and largest species within the Phalangeridae family (Shepherd et al 2018). The Sulawesi bear cuscus is endemic to Sulawesi and several satellite islands (Martin et al 2019), where it inhabits undisturbed lowland tropical rainforest and (less frequently) plantations and gardens (Helgen & Jackson 2015;Martin et al 2019).…”

“…Ailurops ursinus is listed as Vulnerable (Salas et al 2019;Suyanto et al 2020), being threatened with extinction from illegal wildlife trade, hunting and deforestation, with continuing decline of populations (Saragih et al 2010;Dahlen 2013;Shepherd et al 2018;Martin et al 2019;Salas et al 2019). The large areas of habitat available and reduced hunting pressures on islands in southeast Sulawesi are likely to be the strongholds for A. ursinus; for example, A. ursinus on Buton island in southeast Sulawesi are widespread and common (Martin et al 2019).…”

Population density, geographical distribution and habitat of Talaud bear cuscus (Ailurops melanotis Thomas, 1898)

“…The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) included this species as one of Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered species (EDGE) based on evolution, life history, and threat status (EDGE 2018). Therefore, this endemic cuscus represents an important global conservation priority (Martin et al 2018). Within Indonesia, A. melanotis is protected according to the Republic of Indonesia Minister of Environment and Forestry Regulations.…”