Design and applicability of DNA arrays and DNA barcodes in biodiversity monitoring

Background  

The rapid and accurate identification of species is a critical component of large-scale biodiversity monitoring programs. DNA arrays (micro and macro) and DNA barcodes are two molecular approaches that have recently garnered much attention. Here, we compare these two platforms for identification of an important group, the mammals.     

Tono Reservoir fishery contribution to poverty reduction among fishers in northern Ghana

Fishery characteristics and livelihood status of fishers at Tono Reservoir, Ghana, were investigated between January 2015 and June 2016. Data on fisher demography, fishing gears, fishing methods, perceptions of the state of fish stocks, management practices, income and consumption of fishers were obtained through structured interviews. Censuses of fishers and fishing gears were conducted through direct observation and counts. The population of fishers was 950 and the majority (74%) of the sampled respondents fell within the ages of 24–41 years. Gillnet, cast net, trap and hook and line were the four main gears utilised. Illegal methods of fishing observed included the use of mosquito nets (nets with mesh <1.0 cm) and the use of brewer’s waste (pito mash) as bait. Brycinus nurse, Synodontis spp., Parailia spiniserrata and Chrysichthys spp. were perceived to have disappeared from the reservoir. The fishers were unaware of the existence of any fisheries regulations, hence there was no adherence to management practices. Their daily income was derived mainly from fishing. The incidence of poverty among fishers was low (8%). The Tono Reservoir has a great potential for supporting livelihood if it is properly managed.     

The Maloti minnow Pseudobarbus quathlambae (Barnard, 1938) is not extinct in South Africa

Despite concerted surveys, the Maloti minnow Pseudobarbus quathlambae (Barnard 1938) had not been recorded in South African waters for almost eighty years since the original collections were made at the type locality in the upper uMkhomazana River in 1938. The species was therefore declared extinct in South Africa, whereas extant populations were considered confined to various rivers in the Lesotho highlands. In April 2017, however, this species was rediscovered in the Mzimkhulu River system in KwaZulu-Natal. The rediscovery of a species that was considered locally extinct supports the need for extensive surveys to determine its distribution range, estimate population sizes, assess conservation status and implement effective strategies to ensure its continued existence in KwaZulu-Natal.