Author(s) :

David Lilonga, Pisco Menga, Jean-Robert Bwangoy, Mathieu Bolaa, Michel Bakanza, Justin-José Mbimbi, Julien Punga, Guy Ilumbe.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

This study examines the structuring of mammal communities in relation to habitat types and anthropogenic pressure in the Inongo territory (Maï-Ndombe Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo). Data were collected along transects across different habitat types (logged forests, swamp forests, and unlogged forests), combining direct observations, indirect signs, and camera trapping. Diversity was assessed using species richness, abundance, and Shannon, Simpson, and Pielou indices, while community structure was explored through multivariate analyses (PCA, hierarchical clustering), complemented by SIMPER and IndVal approaches. The results reveal marked variations in diversity across habitats. Swamp forests exhibit the highest species richness and abundance (24 species; 486 individuals), whereas unlogged forests show the lowest values (6 species; 25 individuals). Diversity indices follow the same pattern (H’ = 2.789; 1–D = 0.924 in swamp forests vs. H’ = 1.498; 1–D = 0.726 in unlogged forests). Anthropogenic pressure, generally low (52.83%), shows a significant positive correlation with species richness (ρ = 0.308; p = 0.0249) and abundance (ρ = 0.325; p = 0.0175), with no significant effect on diversity indices. SIMPER and IndVal analyses identify several key species, including Cephalophus dorsalis, Potamochoerus porcus, Philantomba monticola, Atilax paludinosus, and Cephalophus callipygus. Overall, communities appear to be structured primarily by variations in species abundance, distinguishing generalist from more specialized species. These findings suggest a certain capacity for adjustment to moderate disturbances, while highlighting the vulnerability of more demanding species, raising important implications for conservation.

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