Protected areas effectiveness in maintaining viable giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) populations in an agricultural frontier

Only three out of 18 Cerrado protected areas can sustain viable giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) populations under a pessimistic scenario, while 11 succeed in an optimistic one. Roadkills significantly threaten long-term survival, necessitating urgent management interventions to mitigate their impact on these vulnerable species. Researchers used VORTEX population modeling to assess viability across different mortality scenarios (2.5%, 5%, and 10% annual losses), revealing critical gaps even within protected zones. This study underscores the need for targeted conservation strategies to counteract human-induced threats in agricultural frontiers.

Diniz, M. F., & Brito, D. (2015). Protected areas effectiveness in maintaining viable giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) populations in an agricultural frontier. Natureza & Conservação, 13(2), 145–151. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ncon.2015.08.001