Publications
Forest structure recovery around West Africa’s last great rainforest: Modelling complex dynamics in Taï national park
Forest recovery in Taï National Park, West Africa's last great rainforest, varies dramatically depending on structural attributes and past land use. Biomass recovery is the slowest, requiring over 100 years for near-complete restoration, while diameter and height recover faster (20–40 years). Cocoa fields show the fastest recovery across all attributes due to remnant trees and forest connectivity, whereas gold mining sites exhibit extremely slow regeneration because of severe soil degradation. The study used a Bayesian framework to model recovery trajectories in 118 plots, assessing the influence of past land use, disturbance, and environmental factors. Protecting remnant trees and managing disturbances are crucial for enhancing passive regeneration, which holds significant promise for long-term forest resilience.
Diversity of plant organs consumed by elephants in Taï National Park, southwest Côte d'Ivoire
A study in Taï National Park, Côte d'Ivoire, reveals that elephants consume at least 335 plant species, with leafy twigs (53%) and fruits (31%) being the most favored. Parinari excelsa, Sacoglottis gabonensis, and Tieghemella heckelii emerged as the top fruit species consumed. The research used transect surveys, poop excavations, and roving surveys to document this dietary diversity, highlighting seasonal variations in elephant feeding behavior tied to plant phenology. This insight underscores the critical role of food resource availability in shaping elephant movements and distribution, offering key implications for their sustainable conservation.
Epiphytic Dynamics of the Adaptations to the Changes of Habitats in Taï National Park
Research in Taï National Park reveals that formerly anthropized forests in the Djapadji sector exhibit a strong dynamic of plant cover reconstitution, particularly evident through the distribution and diversity of epiphytic plants. The study identified 26 epiphyte species across 18 genera and 9 families, predominantly found in mountain forests, with strict epiphytes and hemiepiphytes thriving in preserved habitats while accidental epiphytes appeared in reconstitution biotopes. This suggests that degraded areas are recovering ecologically, offering insights into the resilience of plant communities under anthropogenic pressures. The research employed floristic inventories and structural analysis of tree formations to assess biodiversity and habitat recovery, contributing valuable data for monitoring forest dynamics in fragmented landscapes.
On the Occurrence of Pelusios gabonensis in the Taï National Park (Côte d'Ivoire)
Research confirms the presence of Pelusios gabonensis, a threatened freshwater turtle, within the mature forests of Taï National Park, Côte d'Ivoire. This discovery holds significant conservation value due to the species' geographic isolation from other known populations in the Lower Guinean forests, highlighting its potential as a unique genetic lineage. The study leverages fragmentary historical data and field observations to establish this population's occurrence, emphasizing the need for further research into its conservation status and genetic distinctiveness.
The turtle fauna of a West African rainforest (Taï national park, Côte d’Ivoire)
A survey of Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, identified four turtle species, including two critically endangered (Kinixys homeana) and one vulnerable (Trionyx triunguis). The study used opportunistic sampling for terrestrial turtles in open and closed undergrowth habitats, along with baited traps for aquatic species in the Meno River. While data on conservation status for Kinixys erosa and Pelusios cupulatta remain insufficient, this research highlights the park's biodiversity and underscores urgent conservation needs for threatened species.
Drivers of cocoa agroforestry adoption by smallholder farmers around the Taï National Park in southwestern Côte d’Ivoire
Over half of cocoa farmers around Côte d’Ivoire’s Taï National Park (TNP) are adopting improved agroforestry practices, integrating more trees into their plantations. This shift, driven by factors like gender, residency length, crop diversity, and disease pressure, offers a promising strategy to balance agricultural productivity with biodiversity conservation. Researchers surveyed 323 smallholder farmers, revealing that while traditional practices dominate—such as unimproved cocoa varieties (95%) and pruning (82%)—there is growing engagement with agroforestry, including increased tree planting (54%). These findings underscore the potential for leveraging local knowledge to support sustainable agriculture initiatives like the Cocoa and Forests Initiative (CFI) and REDD+, thereby mitigating deforestation pressures on TNP.
Animal reactivity to camera traps and its effects on abundance estimate using distance sampling in the Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire
Camera traps (CTs) can significantly overestimate animal populations if their effects on behavior are not accounted for. In Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, researchers found that four species—Maxwell’s duiker, Jentink’s duiker, pygmy hippopotamus, and Western chimpanzee—responded differently to CTs, with reactions varying by distance, time of day, and initial installation period. Maxwell’s duiker showed minimal reactivity (~0.11%), while others exhibited high reaction rates (up to 52.96% for pygmy hippopotamus), potentially tripling population estimates if ignored. The study highlights the need to consider species-specific behaviors when using CTs for density sampling, emphasizing the importance of minimizing human impact around traps.
Chimpanzees produce diverse vocal sequences with ordered and recombinatorial properties
Chimpanzees at Taï National Park exhibit a complex vocal sequence production system with ordered and recombinatorial properties, challenging the notion that such flexibility is unique to human language. Researchers analyzed 4826 recordings from 46 wild adult chimpanzees, identifying 390 unique vocal sequences. These sequences show positional and transitional regularities, with certain two-unit sequences (bigrams) predictably occurring in specific positions within longer three-unit sequences (trigrams). This structured recombination of single units suggests a versatile system capable of generating diverse meanings, though further research is needed to determine the extent of this semantic potential.
Oral Processing of Three Guenon Species in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire
Three guenon species in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire—Cercopithecus campbelli, C. diana, and C. petaurista—exhibit distinct oral-processing behaviors despite consuming similar diets and sharing anatomical similarities. Diana monkeys (C. diana) rely more heavily on incisor use per ingestive action than Campbell’s monkeys (C. campbelli) or Lesser spot-nosed guenons (C. petaurista), while also performing significantly more post-canine chews. Conversely, Lesser spot-nosed guenons show intermediate incisor use and higher post-canine chews compared to Campbell’s monkeys. Canine use during feeding was minimal across all species. These findings highlight behavioral diversity in oral processing among closely related taxa, suggesting that dietary specialization may not always correlate with morphological differences. The study analyzed 2316 focal periods over three years, comparing species-specific plant foods, fungi, and invertebrates using Monte Carlo resampling to quantify ingestive actions and chewing patterns.
The influence of burial depth on germination and establishment of seeds in chimpanzee faeces, Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire
A study at Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, reveals that dung beetles play a crucial role in the secondary dispersal of seeds from chimpanzee faeces, significantly influencing germination and seedling establishment. The research found that seeds of Uapaca guineensis and Diospyros mannii, when buried at depths of 2–5 cm, exhibited high germination rates (14.2–30.8%), regardless of whether they originated from chimpanzee faeces or mother trees. Deeper burial negatively impacted seedling emergence and survival, highlighting the importance of optimal burial depth for successful establishment. While chimpanzees serve primarily as dispersers, dung beetles enhance seed fate by facilitating secondary dispersal, contributing to forest regeneration in Taï National Park.
A new method to determine the diet of pygmy hippopotamus in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire
Researchers developed a novel method to determine the diet of pygmy hippopotamuses (Choeropsis liberiensis), an endangered herbivore, using fecal analysis and plant epidermis fragments. The study, conducted in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, identified at least seven plant species—including monocotyledonae, dicotyledonae, and ferns—as key dietary components. Pygmy hippopotamuses were classified as intermediate feeders, with a preference for specific plants. The method combines Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) of epidermis fragments with visual inspection, offering a non-invasive approach to diet assessment. Findings provide critical insights for conservation strategies and captive breeding programs, particularly for this species with fewer than 2,500 adults remaining in the wild.
Leprosy in wild chimpanzees
A groundbreaking discovery reveals that leprosy, typically associated with humans, also affects wild chimpanzees in Taï National Park and Cantanhez National Park. The study identified Mycobacterium leprae, the causative agent of leprosy, in faecal and necropsy samples from two western chimpanzee populations (Pan troglodytes verus), confirming advanced disease symptoms. Phylogenomic analysis showed that these strains belong to rare genotypes (4N/O and 2F), distinct from human or other known animal strains, suggesting potential circulation of M. leprae in wild animals due to human exposure or unknown environmental sources. Longitudinal monitoring provided critical evidence of disease progression, highlighting the need for further investigation into leprosy's ecological impact on wildlife.
The representativeness of the dental calculus dietary record: insights from Taï chimpanzee faecal phytoliths
Dental calculus, often used to reconstruct ancient human diets, may not fully represent the diversity of plant phytoliths consumed. A study comparing faecal phytolith assemblages from two Taï chimpanzees (Côte d'Ivoire) with their known diets revealed significant seasonal variation in phytolith abundance and morphotypes. While eudicot plates, tracheids, and monocot spheroids dominated, grit and diatoms surged during dry periods. Observational dietary records helped link faecal findings to potential dental calculus accumulation patterns, identifying underrepresented phytolith types that could refine future dietary reconstructions.
Energetic management in wild chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus) in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire
A study of wild chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus) in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, reveals distinct energetic strategies between males and females influenced by social dynamics and food availability. High-ranking females exhibited higher energy balance when no oestrus females were present, while high-ranking males showed increased energy levels during oestrus but not otherwise, suggesting differential competitive pressures. The research used non-invasive urinary c-peptide (UCP) measures alongside behavioural data to assess energetic conditions over 12 months, highlighting the value of hormonal markers in field studies. Findings align with socioecological theories, indicating that female energetics are shaped by food competition and male aggression, while male energetics are more tied to mating competition.
Oral Processing Behavior of Diana Monkeys (Cercopithecus diana) in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire
Diana monkeys (Cercopithecus diana) in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, do not rely on difficult-to-process foods when preferred fruits are scarce. Instead, they maintain a diet of relatively easy-to-process items year-round, even as fruit availability fluctuates. The study analyzed 11,906 feeding events, revealing that invertebrates required the least oral processing, followed by fruits and leaves. Preferred fruits were processed with fewer mastications than nonpreferred ones, despite no direct link between fruit preference and availability. This behavior may stem from Taï Forest’s high tree diversity and productivity, offering a stable food source without clear fallback options. The research combined focal follows (2016–2017) with phenological surveys (2004–2009) to document dietary shifts and processing behaviors.
Research and tourism affect positively the occupancy pattern of Loxodonta cyclotis (Elephantidae) in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire
Research and ecotourism activities positively influence the occupancy patterns of Loxodonta cyclotis (forest elephants) in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire. The study found that proximity to research or ecotourism areas increases elephant occupancy probability, while distance from the park's periphery and higher poaching pressures decrease it. Using 87 camera traps deployed for 120 days, researchers applied an occupancy model to analyze habitat variables and predict species distribution. Key findings indicate that northwestern and southwestern regions of the park have a higher likelihood (p > 0.6) of elephant occurrence. These results underscore the importance of promoting research and ecotourism alongside anti-poaching efforts for effective conservation strategies.
Serological evidence for human exposure to Bacillus cereus biovar anthracis in the villages around Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire
A significant portion of the rural population near Taï National Park (TNP), Côte d’Ivoire, exhibits serological evidence of exposure to Bacillus cereus biovar anthracis (Bcbva), a pathogen linked to wildlife mortality in the park. The study, analyzing sera from 1,386 volunteers, found a 22.37% seroprevalence for protective antigen PA and 10.46% for Bcbva-specific antigen pXO2-60, suggesting human exposure to this untypical anthrax-causing pathogen. While bushmeat contact was common among participants, risk factor analysis did not identify significant predictors of seroprevalence. The findings highlight the potential threat posed by Bcbva to local communities and underscore the need for heightened awareness and further research on its impact in the region.
Social rank overrides environmental and community fluctuations in determining meat access by female chimpanzees in the Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire
High-ranking female chimpanzees in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, consistently secure greater access to meat compared to their subordinates, regardless of fluctuations in community size or seasonal ecological changes. This dominance advantage persists over time, even though females rarely hunt themselves. The study analyzed 773 meat-eating events spanning 25 years across two chimpanzee communities, revealing that social rank overrides environmental and demographic factors in determining presence at and acquisition of meat during feeding events. Additional female traits—such as oestrus status, nursing young infants, or age—also positively influenced their likelihood of being present and securing meat. These findings support the hypothesis that dominance rank is a key factor conferring long-term benefits for high-ranking females, providing critical insights into the evolution of social hierarchies in our closest living relatives.
Systematic mapping of developmental milestones in wild chimpanzees
A systematic mapping of developmental milestones in wild chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) reveals that gross motor skills emerge at around 4 months, followed by communication traits at 12 months, social interaction traits at 14 months, and fine motor traits at 15 months. Later-emerging milestones show greater inter-individual variation in timing, suggesting a prolonged infantile phase with sustained skills development. This pattern mirrors observations in humans, indicating that extended developmental periods have deep evolutionary roots and implications for primate brain evolution. The study analyzed a longitudinal sample of 19 wild chimpanzee infants from Taï National Park, Côte d'Ivoire, providing valuable insights into the evolutionary drivers of protracted postnatal development.
Within-group spatial position and activity budget of wild sooty mangabeys (Cercocebus atys) in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire
In Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, sooty mangabeys (Cercocebus atys) exhibit distinct spatial positioning within their social groups that significantly influences their activity budgets. Females and high-ranking individuals of both sexes tend to occupy more central positions, leading to increased feeding and resting times compared to males and low-ranking individuals. This study used focal behavioral observations, recording 5,115 locations for 29 individuals over 15-minute intervals, to investigate how rank, sex, and spatial position jointly affect activity budgets. The findings suggest that social status confers fitness benefits by allowing individuals to adopt advantageous positions within the group, providing new insights into primate socio-ecology and social dynamics.
Demography and life history of five chimpanzee communities in Taï National Park
A nearly four-decade study of wild chimpanzees in Taï National Park, Côte d'Ivoire, reveals critical insights into their demography and life-history strategies. By tracking five communities (North, South, Middle, East Groups), researchers uncovered key reproductive metrics such as age at first birth, interbirth intervals, and longevity, providing a rare long-term dataset for chimpanzee ecology. The study highlights adaptations in Taï chimpanzees' reproductive success and fitness, offering comparisons with other long-term sites to elucidate species-specific responses to environmental challenges.
Factors influencing bacterial microbiome composition in a wild non-human primate community in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire
A groundbreaking study reveals that the gut microbiomes of nine sympatric non-human primate species in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, are shaped by host species, social group dynamics, and parentage, rather than direct social relationships. Surprisingly, chimpanzees exhibited unique phylogenetic overdispersion patterns, contrasting with the expected clustering seen in other monkey species. This suggests distinct ecological or physiological factors influencing their microbiome composition. The research employed a comparative approach to analyze microbiome data across species, providing insights into the complex dispersal routes and evolutionary pressures shaping these microbial communities.
Bushmeat consumption and environmental awareness in rural households: a case study around Taï National Park, Côte d'Ivoire
A significant reduction in bushmeat consumption—exceeding 62% after four multimedia campaigns—was observed in rural households near Taï National Park, Côte d'Ivoire. The study highlights the effectiveness of recurring awareness campaigns, combining theatre and film screenings, in curbing bushmeat intake, particularly among poorer households with more dependent children. Bushmeat, primarily composed of rodents and bovids, accounted for 13% of animal protein consumed in these communities. Researchers conducted surveys in 144 households across 20 localities between July and December 2012 to assess the impact of poverty and awareness campaigns on bushmeat consumption patterns.
Diversity and prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in seven non-human primates of the Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire
A comprehensive survey of gastrointestinal parasites in seven non-human primate species within Côte d'Ivoire's Taï National Park reveals high diversity and prevalence, with 23 parasite species identified. Species such as Cercopithecus diana, C. petaurista, Cercocebus atys, and C. campbelli exhibited greater parasite richness and more equitable distribution compared to others. The study, the first of its kind for these primate taxa in Taï National Park, employed microscopic examination techniques—direct wet mount, formalin-ethyl acetate concentration, and MIF (merthiolate, iodine, formalin) concentration—to analyze 3142 stool samples collected between 2009 and 2010. Findings underscore the complex parasitic dynamics in these primate populations, providing critical baseline data for future conservation and health monitoring efforts.
How feeding competition determines female chimpanzee gregariousness and ranging in the Taï National Park, Côte d'Ivoire
In Taï National Park, Côte d'Ivoire, high-ranking female chimpanzees increase their gregariousness during periods of food scarcity, unlike low-ranking females who reduce their social interactions to minimize energy expenditure. This study challenges the assumption that high-ranking females always benefit from being more social, revealing instead a conditional response to ecological conditions. Researchers analyzed long-term data from two Taï chimpanzee communities using multivariate analysis to test whether dominance rank influenced gregariousness and travel costs. The findings suggest that female chimpanzees in Taï do not monopolize core areas, unlike other populations such as those in Gombe or Kibale, indicating significant variation in social behavior across chimpanzee populations.
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