Biochemical genetic markers in the Kadazans of Sabah,Malaysia

Summary Kadazans, the largest indigenous group in Sabah, northern Borneo, were surveyed for glyoxalase I, phosphoglucomutase I, red cell acid phosphatase, esterase D, adenosine deaminase, soluble glutamate pyruvate transaminase, soluble glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase, 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase, uridine monophosphate kinase, adenylate kinase, peptidase B and D, superoxide dismutase, C₅, group specific component, haptoglobin and transferrin.Kadazans were found to be polymorphic for GLOI, PGMI, RCAP, esterase D, ADA, s-Gpt, 6PGD, UMPK, Gc, C₅, haptoglobin and peptidase B. Rare variants were found for transferrin and peptidase D. No variant was found for s-Got, SOD and AK.     

Health evaluation of free-ranging and semi-captive orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus pygmaeus) in Sabah,Malaysia

Baseline data on health of free-ranging wildlife is essential to evaluate impacts of habitat transformation and wildlife translocation, rehabilitation, and reintroduction programs. Health information on many species, especially great apes, is extremely limited. Between 1996 and 1998, 84 free-ranging orangutans captured for translocation, underwent a complete health evaluation. Analogous data were gathered from 60 semi-captive orangutans in Malaysia. Baseline hematology and serology; vitamin, mineral and pesticide levels; and results of health evaluations, including physical examination, provide a baseline for future monitoring. Free-ranging and semi-captive orangutans shared exposure to 11 of 47 viruses. The semi-captive orangutans had significantly higher prevalence of antibodies to adenovirus (P < 0.0005) and rota (SA 11) virus (P < 0.008). More free-ranging than semi-captive animals had antibodies to Japanese encephalitis virus (P < 0.08) and foamy virus (P = 0.05). Exposure to parainfluenza and langat viruses was detected exclusively in semi-captive animals and exposure to sinbis virus was only found in free-ranging orangutans. There was evidence of exposure to respiratory syncytial virus, coxsackie virus, dengue virus, and zika virus in both groups. Ebstein-Barr virus was ubiquitous in both groups. Prevalence of antibodies against mumps virus changed from 0% in 1996 to 45% in 1998. No antibodies were detected to many important zoonotic viral pathogens, including herpesvirus and hepatitis virus. Prevalence of Balantidium coli and Plasmodium pitheci infections and exposure to mycobacterium was higher in the semi-captive animals. Differences in exposure to pathogens between the groups may be due to environmental factors including differences in exposures to other species, habitat quality, nutritional status, and other potential stressors. Differences in health parameters between captive and free-ranging orangutans need to be considered when planning conservation areas, translocation procedures, and rehabilitation protocols. Because survival of the orangutan is linked to animal and ecosystem health, results of this study will assist wildlife conservation programs by providing baseline health information.     

Neorhabditostomum yeni n. g., n. sp. (Nematoda,Strongyloidea) from Muntiacus muntjak in Sabah,Malaysia

Neorhabditostomum yeni n. g., sp. is described from the intestine of the barking deer, Muntiacus muntjak, from Simatuoh, Sapulot, Sabah, Malaysia. It is distinguished from the nearest genera, namely Bourgelatoides and Rhabditostomum, in the subfamily Oesophagostominae by the presence of an elongate, unsegmented, oesophageal funnel, a single leaf crown, the separation of the oral collar by a wide groove from the cephalic vesicle, the position of the cervical papillae, the absence of filaments on the spicules and the absence of an evagination of the vulva. The significance of the arrangement of the cephalic papillae within the Stronglyloidea is discussed. ac]19860428     

Empruthotrema stenophallus n. sp. (Monogenea: Monocotylidae) from the nasal tissue of Dasyatis kuhlii (Dasyatidae) from Sabah, Borneo, Malaysia

Empruthotrema stenophallus n. sp. (Monogenea: Monocotylidae) is described from specimens from the nasal tissue of the blue-spotted maskray Dasyatis kuhlii (Muller and Henle, 1841) collected in shallow waters off Pulau Banggi and Pulau Mabul, Sabah, Borneo, Malaysia. This is the first monogenean species to be described from an elasmobranch collected from Sabah. E. stenophallus can be distinguished from the other 6 members of the genus by the morphology of the sclerotized male copulatory organ, which is narrow, short, and distally tapered. E. dasyatidis Whittington and Kearn, 1992, previously documented from the nasal tissue of several of elasmobranch species from Australia, is recorded from 8 host species distributed around Malaysian Borneo. These represent new host and locality records for this monocotylid. The difficulties in identifying species of Empruthotrema and the apparent lack of host specificity by some members of the genus are discussed.     

Genetic diversity and distinctiveness of the proboscis monkeys (Nasalis larvatus) of the Klias Peninsula, Sabah, Malaysia

In this study, we sequenced a partial segment of the mitochondrial control region from 21 proboscis monkeys of the Klias peninsula, the last large population remaining on the west coast of Sabah, Malaysia. Our results showed that this population retains substantial genetic variation, and subpopulations from different river systems in the central and southern portions of the Klias share multiple haplotypes. We also compared our data with previously generated sequences from 2 eastern populations of proboscis monkeys in Sabah and found little evidence of regional genetic structure. Based on these results, we argue that conservation efforts should focus on restoring connectivity between central and southern Klias peninsula proboscis monkeys and discuss future analyses needed to better understand the mitochondrial structure of proboscis monkeys in Sabah.     

Densities of Bornean orang‐utans (Pongo pygmaeus morio) in heavily degraded forest and oil palm plantations in Sabah,Borneo

The conversion of forest to agriculture continues to contribute to the loss and fragmentation of remaining orang‐utan habitat. There are still few published estimates of orang‐utan densities in these heavily modified agricultural areas to inform range‐wide population assessments and conservation strategies. In addition, little is known about what landscape features promote orang‐utan habitat use. Using indirect nest count methods, we implemented surveys and estimated population densities of the Northeast Bornean orang‐utan (Pongo pygmaeus morio) across the continuous logged forest and forest remnants in a recently salvage‐logged area and oil palm plantations in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. We then assessed the influence of landscape features and forest structural metrics obtained from LiDAR data on estimates of orang‐utan density. Recent salvage logging appeared to have a little short‐term effect on orang‐utan density (2.35 ind/km ²), which remained similar to recovering logged forest nearby (2.32 ind/km ²). Orang‐utans were also present in remnant forest patches in oil palm plantations, but at significantly lower numbers (0.82 ind/km ²) than nearby logged forest and salvage‐logged areas. Densities were strongly influenced by variation in canopy height but were not associated with other potential covariates. Our findings suggest that orang‐utans currently exist, at least in the short‐term, within human‐modified landscapes, providing that remnant forest patches remain. We urge greater recognition of the role that these degraded habitats can have in supporting orang‐utan populations, and that future range‐wide analyses and conservation strategies better incorporate data from human‐modified landscapes.     

Ecology and behavior of the wild proboscis monkey,Nasalis larvatus (Wurmb), in Sabah,Malaysia

Proboscis monkeys,Nasalis larvatus (Wurmb), were investigated in the Padas Bay and Kinabatangan River areas, Sabah, from July 1968 to March 1969. The proboscis monkey is a common, widely distributed species of coloboids in Sabah, living in the various vegetations that extend from the coastal swamp to the inland plain. It appears to have a terrestrial tendency, compared with other coloboids, moving around on the ground in the forest and extending its activity, sometimes, to the open land along the river beach. The number of monkey in a troop, we observed, ranged from 11 to 32, and almost all troops were composed of several adult males, many more adult females, and immature animals. The adult males appear to play the role of leaders in the troop through their characteristic behavior, attacking, threatening, warning, watching, etc., other troop members or invaders. Each troop always emitted various boisterous vocalizations which were divided into 14 types.     

A Study of Fruit–Frugivore Interactions in Two Species of Durian (Durio, Bombacaceae) in Sabah, Malaysia

We determined the fruit predators and seed dispersers of two species of durian ( Durio , Bombacaceae), D. graveolens and D. zibethinus , which have contrasting aril color and timing of dehiscence by observing fruiting trees in Deramakot forest reserve. In our observations in the wild, both species were extensively predated by orangutans before fruits matured. Durio graveolens was dispersed by black hornbills and D. zibethinus was dispersed by long-tailed macaques.     

Macrostylophora kinabaluae n. sp. (Insecta: Siphonaptera: Ceratophyllidae), a new flea from Sabah (Borneo, Eastern Malaysia)

This species, known only by a single male, is described from Mount Kinabalu and thus is recorded from the same area as Macrostylophora borneensis (Jordan, 1926), teste Traub (1972). It is distinguished from its congeneric and characterized by the absence of eriged setae on the thorax and first abdominal tergits, as well as by the shape of terminal segments and the phallosom. Macrostylophora kinabaluae was found to parasitize the Sciurid rodent Callosciurus prevostii that is widespread throughout most areas in the Malaysian subregion.     

Intake,utilization, and composition of browses consumed by the Sumatran rhinoceros (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis harissoni) in captivity in Sabah,Malaysia

The significant threats to the fewer than 30 wild Dicerorhinus sumatrensis harrissoni, the Bornean sub‐species of the Sumatran rhinoceros, are obvious and include poaching, habitat loss, and environmental changes. Subtle effects on population survival, however, include nutritional or other diseases, which affect morbidity and reproductive success. To address these issues and focus on animals within their natural range, this feeding trial and analysis characterizes the diet fed to the only three captive D. s. harissoni in the world housed at the Sumatran Rhino Breeding Center (SRBC) in Sabah, Malaysia. The study provides an indication of the variance in nutrient composition in local browse, and a comparison with other captive feeding studies. Mean dry matter intake (DMI), comprising ∼90% native browse species, equaled 3.55% (range=2.8–4.1%) of body mass, with a dry matter digestibility averaging 82%. The mean crude protein content of native browses (n=8 spp.) averaged 11.2% (DM basis; range=5–23%, depending on plant part), with available protein measured at 7.8%. Leaves contained significantly (P<0.001) more crude protein, and less (P<0.001) fiber (neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, and lignin) than twig fractions analyzed, but animals consumed both fractions rather non‐selectively. Of minerals quantified, Na and P were potentially limiting in native browses compared to equid nutrient requirements, and Se may have been marginal. Ca, K, and Fe levels in particular were high in most native browses. Specifically, iron ranged from 45–1,400 mg/kg (mean=230 mg/kg DM), with only three preferred species containing this nutrient at <100 mg/kg. Excess dietary iron has been linked with health issues in browsing rhinos. Additionally, high levels of other minerals (for example Mn, with a mean of 382 mg/kg DM in this study), can precipitate deficiencies in crucial elements such as calcium. In view of the structural and chemical variations of the different parts of the same plants, dietary guidelines should be developed and incorporated into the basic husbandry of these animals that include increasing the number and combinations of species of browse offered daily to adjust for variance in protein, fiber, other nutritional components and food preference, to increasing the quantity of food offered per day based on desired weight gain and reproductive status. This, combined with information on the free‐ranging rhinoceros diet composition, and additional intake and digestibility trials (with concurrent serum analysis to evaluate nutritional status) should greatly assist in providing optimal diets for this highly endangered species. Zoo Biol 0:1–15, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.     

Three new species of the genus Medwayella Traub, 1972 (Insecta: Siphonaptera: Pygiopsyllidae) from Sabah (eastern Malaysia, Borneo)

Medwayella traubiana n. sp., M. pfeifferi n. sp. and M. sabahae n. sp. (Pygiopsyllidae) are described from Sabah (north of Borneo island), the first two on Tupaia tana (Scandentia), the last on Sundasciurus lowii (Rodentia). Sex male is only identified, because these fleas have been collected in sympatry, or even in syntopy. Their determination is based on segment IX and aedeagus. If M. traubiana and M. pfeifferi are related to some known species, M. sabahae is clearly distinct from other Medwayella.     

Seasonality and historic trends in the reef fisheries of Pulau Banggi, Sabah, Malaysia

The reef fisheries of Pulau (meaning “island” in Malay) Banggi, Sabah are not managed, and lack baseline fisheries data despite forming part of a proposed marine park. Thus, a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches was applied to obtain a baseline picture about the past and present state of the fisheries. Fish landings were monitored, and fisher interviews conducted to investigate seasonal effects and historical changes in Banggi’s reef fisheries. Monsoon winds were a major driver of seasonal differences in catch quantities for the hook and line, but not the gillnet fishery. Spatial distribution of fishing effort and target species also differed by season. Fishers consistently indicated that Banggi’s fisheries were declining, with a suggested three to four times decrease in catch rates over the last 20 years. Interestingly, it appeared that substantial decreases began in the year 2000. The responses of fishers to seasonal changes, and the resultant implications for management are discussed. Importantly, the need for immediate management policies to prevent further declines and to maintain sustainable reef fisheries is stressed. Electronic supplementary material  The online version of this article (doi:) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Fuelling the biodiversity crisis: species loss of ground-dwelling forest ants in oil palm plantations in Sabah,Malaysia (Borneo)

Oil palm plantations today cover large areas of former tropical lowland rain forest in Southeast Asia and are rapidly expanding on the island of Borneo. Study of the community of ground-dwelling ants in different plantations in Sabah, Malaysia, over 2 years using tuna baiting, revealed that the oil palm plantation ground ant community was severely reduced in species richness in comparison to the forest interior, regardless of age, undergrowth cover, or proximity to neighbouring forest. The results indicate that oil palm plantation habitats, now covering more than 15% of Sabah’s land area, can sustain only about 5% of the ground-dwelling ant species of the forest interior. Nine of the 23 ant species baited in the plantations were never recorded inside forest. All numerically dominant ants were non-forest species. The most common species was Anoplolepis gracilipes, an invasive species present at 70% of all bait sites and known to cause ‘ecological meltdowns’ in other situations. The low frequency and species number of forest ground ants indicates that oil palm plantations act as effective dispersal barriers leading to community isolation in rain forest remnants. The replacement of natural forests with oil palm plantations poses a serious threat to the conservation of biodiversity on Borneo if similar results are confirmed in other taxa.     

Primary lowland dipterocarp forest at Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia. Species composition and patterns in the understorey

The spatial distributions of species of tree 10 cm gbh were examined in two 4 ha plots and related to the local variation in topography and soil chemistry. The plots were similar in their species composition, particularly in terms of the densities of small trees, and they showed very similar edaphic characteristics. Size class distributions varied little within and between plots. Ordination of 0.25 ha subplots highlighted parallel gradients in the vegetation of both plots when the densities of trees 10 cm gbh were considered. Focusing on understorey trees in the 10-<50 cm gbh class at the 0.04 ha subplot scale showed a similar vegetation gradient in both plots closely associated with change from lower slope to ridge. No relationship with soil chemistry was found. On the ridges a special group of understorey species formed clumps and these species contributed importantly to the ordinations. Borneo has a regional history of occasionally severe droughts. It is suggested here that the observed patterns in the understorey are due to differential responses to low soil water supply, the ridges probably tending to dryness more than the lower slopes. Within the large and diverse family Euphorbiaceae, which dominates the understorey at Danum, there may be ecophysiological groupings of species. The long-term effects of disturbance interacting with local edaphic factors on forest structure and composition are discussed.     

Genus Colocasiomyia (Drosophilidae: Diptera) in Sabah,Bornean Malaysia: High species diversity and use of host aroid inflorescences

A total of 21 Colocasiomyia species, including 17 undescribed species, are reported from Sabah (Mt. Kinabalu and neighboring areas), Malaysia, based on samples collected from inflorescences of 14 or 15 Araceae species. This number of species is the largest as a local fauna of this genus in the world. The high species diversity is attributed to 12 undescribed species belonging to the Colocasiomyia baechlii species group. A particular breeding habit of Colocasiomyia is sharing of the same inflorescence by a pair of species, with partial niche separation between them: one species uses exclusively the pistillate (lower female‐flower) section of the spadix for oviposition and larval development, whereas the other mostly uses the staminate (upper male‐flower) section. However, the baechlii group species show quite different patterns of host plant use: many (up to eight) species cohabit on the same inflorescence. It is unlikely that they separate their breeding niches micro‐allopatrically within an inflorescence. Instead, species composition and their proportions of individual numbers vary among different localities, seasons and host plants, with partial overlap among them. Such partial separations in local distribution, phenology and host selection would in combination contribute to their coexistence and promote the species diversity of this group.     

Increase in social interactions of wild Northern Gray gibbons (Hylobates funereus) during the mast fruiting period in the Danum Valley Conservation Area,Sabah, Malaysia

acta ethologica - In Southeast Asian forests, there are dramatic supra-annual peaks in fruit availability known as mast fruiting, followed by low-fruit periods. Gibbons are frugivorous small apes....     

The Effect of Rain Forest Canopy Architecture on the Distribution of Epiphytic Ferns (Asplenium spp.) in Sabah, Malaysia

Epiphytic plants are a dominant component of the rain forest canopy biota. They represent a significant proportion of canopy plant biomass and diversity, play a key role in nutrient cycling, and support highly abundant and diverse animal communities. Understanding the factors affecting their distribution in this three-dimensional habitat is consequently of great importance, not least because they may be particularly vulnerable to climate change and habitat conversion. Here we investigate how canopy architecture affects the distribution of two species of bird's nest fern ( Asplenium spp.) in pristine rain forest. Both species were found at high abundances ( Asplenium phyllitidis : 136/ha, SE ± 31.6, Asplenium nidus : 44/ha, SE ± 9.2) and their distributions were differentially affected by canopy architecture. Asplenium phyllitidis was found only at heights < 30 m in areas with a thicker lower canopy layer. Asplenium nidus was found at all heights in the canopy and was associated with emergent trees and areas with an open understory. Larger A. phyllitidis were found higher in the canopy while larger A. nidus were found on trunks and branches with a wider diameter. Asplenium nidus seems adapted to withstand the hot dry conditions in the upper canopy and in gaps, and its size is consequently limited only by the size of its support. Asplenium phyllitidis is dominant in areas that are cooler and damper, and so the growth rate of individuals may be limited by light levels. We discuss possible implications of this partitioning for epiphyte communities in the face of climate change and habitat conversion.
     

X-ray fluorescence elemental mapping of roots,stems and leaves of the nickel hyperaccumulators Rinorea cf. bengalensis and Rinorea cf. javanica (Violaceae) from Sabah (Malaysia), Borneo

Plant and Soil - The following article is part of the Special Issue “Agroforestry: a belowground perspective” Guest Edited by Rémi Cardinael, Zhun Mao, Claire Chenu, Philippe...