The demographic structure and distribution of praomys missonnei and praomys jacksoni in Mabira central forest reserve

Abstract

The current rate of loss of forest in Uganda and particularly Mabira forest threatens the Praomys species. Currently little is known about their demographic structure jeopardizing any conservation interventions. Therefore, this study aims to assess the demographic structure and distribution of this very important species in Mabira forest reserve. The study was implemented through the use of conventional Sherman live trapping and opportunistic trapping. In total, 280 individuals of both species were captured. Demographic structure analysis indicated that both P. jacksoni group and P. missonnei exhibit a male biased population with higher numbers of adults compared to other age classes. It was also observed that different habitat characteristics influence the distribution of these Praomys species within the environs of MCFR. Closed canopy along the stream, open canopy with thick undergrowth and forest edge were the major habitat attributes of the sites with highest capture rates. A better understanding in the disparity between sexes warrants further investigation.