The importance of cloud forest sites in the conservation of endemic and threatened species of the Albertine Rift

Cloud forests in the Albertine Rift, including Kahuzi-Biega National Park, are critical for conserving 94% of endemic mammals, 95% of endemic birds, 89% of endemic reptiles, and 69% of endemic amphibians. This study ranked 40 sites in the region based on species richness and threat status, revealing that cloud forests—Rwenzori Massif, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Virunga Volcanoes, Nyungwe National Park, Kahuzi-Biega, and Itombwe Massif—topped the list for endemic and threatened species. While all face severe threats from high human population densities, the unprotected Itombwe Massif emerges as a priority for urgent conservation action.

Owiunji, I., & Plumptre, A. J. (2011). The importance of cloud forest sites in the conservation of endemic and threatened species of the Albertine Rift. Tropical Montane Cloud Forests, 164–171. https://doi.org/10.1017/cbo9780511778384.018