Publications
Analyse par Télédétection de la dynamique des formations végétales 2002-2022 dans le Sud du Parc national de la Comoé (Nord-Est de la Côte d’Ivoire)
A study analyzing vegetation dynamics in the southern part of Comoé National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, using LANDSAT satellite imagery from 2002 to 2022, reveals two contrasting phases: a period of decline (2002–2012) marked by a 51% reduction in dense forests and accelerated savannization, followed by notable recovery post-2012 with wooded savannas expanding by 29%. Despite resilience, habitat fragmentation and persistent anthropogenic pressures persist, necessitating integrated management strategies such as ecological corridor restoration to ensure long-term biodiversity conservation. The research validates these findings using a robust methodology (Kappa > 0.77) and highlights the interplay of natural and human factors in shaping the park's landscape.
Shift of Nitrogen and Carbon Stable Isotopes in Temporary Pond Tadpoles Following the Decline of Large Mammalian Herbivores
Research in Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast, reveals that the decline of large mammalian herbivores due to civil conflicts has significantly altered nitrogen cycling in savanna ecosystems. Stable isotope analysis of tadpoles from temporary ponds showed a decrease in δ15N values post-decline, indicating a baseline shift in nutrient dynamics. No significant change in δ13C signals suggests minimal alteration in primary energy resources. Interannual and taxon-specific variations in isotope signals highlight the complex interplay between tadpole morphology, diet, and pond characteristics. These findings underscore the critical role of large herbivores in maintaining ecosystem stability.
Socio‐Ecological Significance and Anthropogenic Threats to Berlinia (Sol. ex Hook.f., 1849) and Isoberlinia (Stapf, 1911) Species in Côte d’Ivoire
Berlinia and Isoberlinia species, vital for timber, food, medicine, and cultural services in Côte d'Ivoire's Guineo-Sudanian zone, face severe threats from overexploitation, habitat loss, and climate stress. A study examining 72 plots across protected (Comoé National Park) and unprotected areas revealed significant declines in density, stem diameter, and basal area in unprotected stands, with Isoberlinia doka suffering from selective illegal logging and Berlinia grandiflora showing regressive population dynamics due to aging stands and low regeneration. Ethnobotanical surveys identified 23 medicinal, seven handicraft, two fuelwood, and one food uses, while highlighting eight key drivers of decline, including deforestation, agriculture, unsustainable logging, bushfires, cashew cultivation, and drought. The findings underscore the need for community-based conservation strategies integrating local ethnoecological knowledge to ensure the sustainability of these ecologically and socio-economically critical species.
Determining the mammal fauna in the Doropo gold project area (north-east Côte d’Ivoire) using camera-traps
A study conducted near Comoé National Park, Côte d'Ivoire, identified 23 mammal species using camera-traps over 10 months, with a notable detection of the Near Threatened patas monkey (Erythrocebus patas). The research highlights the ecological sensitivity of the area, which is adjacent to a gold mining project. Camera-trapping proved effective in capturing cryptic and nocturnal species, providing critical data for conservation efforts. Low relative abundance indices (RAIs) for detected species underscore the need for proactive conservation measures to mitigate potential impacts from mining activities on wildlife.
Diversity and functional groups of higher mushrooms from the national parks of Taï, Marahoué, Comoe and the Ehotiles Islands (Ivory Coast)
A pioneering study reveals significant mycological diversity and functional variation among higher fungi (macrofungi) across four national parks—Taï, Marahoué, Comoé, and the Ehotilés Islands—in Ivory Coast. The research identified 290 morphospecies, predominantly Basidiomycetes (96.21%), with no mycological resemblance between the areas studied. Symbiotic fungi, particularly ectomycorrhizians, dominate in the Comoé region, while saprotrophic fungi are prevalent elsewhere. Marahoué exhibits the highest functional diversity, followed by Comoé and Taï. The findings highlight the cosmopolitan nature of saprotrophic macrofungi, though some genera or species show restricted distributions. This study underscores the ecological significance of higher fungi in ecosystem monitoring and conservation.
Large mammal population trends in Comoé National Park (1958–2022): Towards understanding their asymmetric decline and recovery in West Africa’s largest savanna park
Large mammal populations in Comoé National Park, Côte d'Ivoire, exhibit asymmetric decline and recovery patterns over 64 years. While roan antelope, hartebeest, and waterbuck have quasi-recovered to pre-crisis levels since the political turmoil (2002-2011), species like kob, common hippopotamus, and savanna elephant remain at approximately 10% of their 1970s abundance. This asymmetry is attributed to habitat loss—grasslands declined from 15% to 2% between 1979 and 2020—and poaching pressures, which disproportionately affected gregarious species dependent on floodplain grasslands. The study leverages generalized additive models of 25 terrestrial and aerial counts (1958–2022) to identify these trends and their drivers, including human population growth (six-fold increase since 1962), cattle encroachment, and insufficient ranger presence. These findings underscore the challenges of wildlife conservation in West Africa's largest savanna park, emphasizing the need for targeted habitat restoration and anti-poaching measures before potential species reintroduction.
Local Knowledge and Drivers of Human-Primates Conflicts around Comoe National Park, Northeastern Cote d’Ivoire
A study around Comoé National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, reveals that human-primate conflicts are driven by primate foraging behavior and habitat loss. Primates like patas monkeys (Erythrocebus patas), green monkeys (Chlorocebus sabaeus), and olive baboons (Papio anubis) frequently raid crops such as yam, maize, and cassava near the park, exacerbating tensions with local communities. Local knowledge indicates that these conflicts stem from primates venturing outside the park due to reduced food availability within their natural habitats. The research, conducted through focus group discussions and questionnaires with 502 participants, highlights the cultural significance of primates among ethnic groups like Koulango, Lobi, and Malinké while identifying traps and watch guarding as primary mitigation strategies. Preserving primate habitats is suggested as a key solution to minimize conflicts.
Physico-chemical characterization of watercourses in Comoé national Park (North -East Côte d’Ivoire; West Africa)
A study of watercourses in Comoé National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, reveals significant spatial and seasonal variations in physico-chemical parameters, with the Comoé River showing higher levels of degradation compared to other rivers. Key indicators such as temperature, dissolved oxygen, ammonium, nitrite, phosphate, COD, and BOD5 frequently exceeded threshold values, suggesting environmental stress. The research employed in situ measurements, field kits, and laboratory analyses over an 11-month period (May 2022–March 2023) at six sampling stations, using statistical tests to assess differences.
Traditional knowledge of medicinal macrofungi commonly used by riverine populations of the Taï, Comoé and Marahoué national parks (Côte d’Ivoire)
A comprehensive ethnomedicinal survey of medicinal macrofungi used by riverine populations in Côte d’Ivoire’s Taï, Comoé, and Marahoué national parks reveals that women are the primary custodians of this traditional knowledge. The study identified twelve fungal species grouped into seven ethno-species based on morphological traits like sporophore shape and color, as well as sociolinguistic factors. These fungi are employed to treat or alleviate 28 conditions, with whole sporophores being the most commonly used part. Preparation methods often involve grinding into powder, while administration varies depending on the ailment's location. The research highlights significant variability in ethnopharmacological practices and uneven exploitation of species, emphasizing the need for documentation and preservation of this eroding knowledge among younger generations.
Communication Strategies and Impacts of OIPR Tree Planting Initiative in the North-East of Ivory Coast for the Nature Conservation
A new study reveals that the Ivorian Office of Parks and Reserves (OIPR) has made significant strides in engaging local communities for environmental conservation through targeted communication strategies, particularly in Comoé National Park. The research, leveraging an integrated model for social change, demonstrates how OIPR's efforts have effectively promoted tree planting initiatives in the Bounkani region of Ivory Coast. By focusing on community involvement and education, OIPR has shown that strategic communication can drive sustainable development outcomes, offering a replicable model for nature conservation in similar contexts.
Cultural attitudes and human pressure towards vultures around the Comoé National Park, Côte d’Ivoire (West Africa)
A rapid decline in vulture populations around Côte d’Ivoire’s Comoé National Park (CNP) is driven by cultural demand for traditional medicine, habitat loss, and environmental pressures. Despite the persistence of species like the Hooded Vulture (Necrosyrtes monachus) and White-headed Vulture (Trigonoceps occipitalis), 98.2% of interviewees reported significant reductions in sightings over recent years. Key threats include food scarcity, pesticide poisoning, hunting, bushfires, and the use of vulture parts—such as feathers, organs, and excrement—for mystical practices or medicine. The Hooded Vulture is particularly targeted. This study highlights the urgent need for conservation strategies that balance ecological protection with cultural sensitivity to safeguard these critical scavengers.
Descriptions of four new species of Capys from East and West Africa with notes on adult morphology and biogeography (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae)
Researchers have identified four new species of the hairstreak butterfly genus Capys (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) from East and West Africa, including one found in Comoé National Park. These discoveries were made through detailed morphological analysis, focusing on male genitalia, dorsal hindwing surface, androconia, and labial palps—key features used to distinguish Capys species. Molecular evidence further supported the biogeographical patterns of these new species. The study contributes significantly to the understanding of butterfly diversity in African ecosystems.
Diversité et Abondance Relative des Oiseaux d’Eau du Parc National de la Comoé, Côte d’Ivoire
A comprehensive ornithological survey of Comoé National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, identified 47 waterbird species across 18 families, with non-Passeriformes dominating (89.36% of species richness). The study, conducted from September 2017 to August 2019 using count points and slow walks along the Comoé River and its tributaries, revealed that Ardeidae (herons) were the most diverse family (23.81%), while the Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis) and Hamerkop (Scopus umbretta) were the most abundant species. Waterbird abundance peaked during the dry season (December–March), with a marked preference for gallery forests. Only one species, the Woolly-Necked Stork (Ciconia episcopus), was noted as near-threatened by the IUCN. This research provides critical baseline data for the conservation and management of waterbirds in this UNESCO-listed site.
Diversity of tree flora in the forest galleries of four ponds in the Comoé National Park (north-east Ivory Coast)
A study of the riparian forest galleries in Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast, identified 78 tree species across four ponds, with the buffalo pond exhibiting the highest diversity. Key dominant species included Diospyros mespiliformis (25.89%), Mitragyna inermis (17.11%), and Khaya senegalensis (12.27%). The Fabaceae and Rubiaceae families were most represented, highlighting the ecological significance of these microhabitats. The research used surface survey and roving inventory methods to assess species richness, contributing valuable data for the conservation and management of these unique biomes.
Ecological determinants of spotted hyena Crocuta crocuta occupancy in Comoé National Park, Côte d’Ivoire
Spotted hyenas (Crocuta crocuta) in Comoé National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, show strong nocturnal activity patterns with minimal spatial competition with leopards (Panthera pardus), despite sharing nearly half of their activity periods. Research using camera trapping revealed that hyena occupancy was significantly influenced only by proximity to water points, while the presence of leopards did not affect their distribution. Habitat selection analysis indicated a preference for shrub savannah, and temporal overlap with leopards was high (OIJ(time) = 0.78), suggesting potential coexistence. However, anthropogenic pressures on prey populations may limit predator growth, highlighting the need to address these threats before considering lion reintroduction efforts.
Will artificial intelligence revolutionize aerial surveys? A first large-scale semi-automated survey of African wildlife using oblique imagery and deep learning
A semi-automated deep learning approach significantly enhances the efficiency and accuracy of wildlife population estimation in aerial surveys, offering comparable or superior results to traditional methods. The study, conducted in Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast, combined oblique-camera-count (OCC) imagery with a pre-trained deep learning model, HerdNet, to process over 190,000 images. This method reduced human effort by 111 hours while improving detection of small and isolated animals, such as kob and warthog, compared to the rear-seat observer (RSO) approach. Despite challenges like vegetation obstruction, the semi-automated deep learning (SADL)-OCC pipeline demonstrated transformative potential for future wildlife monitoring, particularly with microlight aircraft and drones.
A preliminary checklist of the praying mantids of Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast (Insecta: Mantodea)
A preliminary checklist of praying mantids (Insecta: Mantodea) from Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast, identifies 35 species across 13 families. Two species—Ischnomantis werneri and Solygia sulcatifrons—were recorded for the first time in the country, expanding its known biodiversity. The study, based on specimens collected in 2000 and 2017–2019, highlights the park's diverse habitats—gallery forests, savannas, and grasslands—which support both forest and savannah mantis species. Additionally, 47 more species are suspected to inhabit the park, suggesting a richer insect diversity than previously documented.
Community knowledge on factors behind extirpation of lion Panthera leo in Comoé National Park, Côte d'Ivoire (West Africa)
Lions were extirpated from Comoé National Park, Côte d'Ivoire, approximately two decades ago due to civil war and subsequent anthropogenic pressures. A study involving 307 participants from 23 villages identified the civil war (2002) as the primary facilitator of lion extirpation, leading to illegal hunting, prey depletion, gold mining, human-wildlife conflict, and wildfires. The Bouna sector saw lions disappear first, while Nassian and Téhini sectors experienced more recent extirpations. Historically, prey density showed a drastic drop during the civil war period but began recovering post-crisis (2016-2022). The study recommends intensified monitoring, limiting anthropogenic disturbances, and enhancing local community involvement to support potential lion reintroduction efforts.
Community perspectives on the prospect of lion ( Panthera leo ) reintroduction to Comoé National Park, Côte d'Ivoire (West Africa)
A majority (73%) of local communities surrounding Côte d'Ivoire's Comoé National Park support the reintroduction of lions, despite historical conflicts and perceived risks. The study, involving 307 respondents from 23 villages, identified key determinants for acceptance: sex, profession, perceived benefits and risks, and appreciation of current management practices. While 81% reported coexisting with lions in the past, 20% had experienced conflicts, yet 74% expressed willingness to coexist in the future. Over 84% believed lion reintroduction would bring net benefits, with 88% confident in taking precautions against attacks. However, only 42% viewed current management as participatory. The findings underscore strong community support for ethical lion reintroduction, aligning with IUCN guidelines, and highlight the need for improved indigenous involvement, particularly among pastoralists.
Détermination des centres de diversités des Poaceae d’Afrique de l’Ouest en vue de leur conservation
Research identifies critical centers of diversity for Poaceae (grasses) in West Africa, pinpointing regions such as northern Burkina Faso and areas between the Gulf of Guinea and latitude 10°N as hotspots for species richness. The study analyzed over 134,000 specimens from 116 genera and 402 species, revealing uneven sampling efforts across the region, with some areas like northeastern Mali underrepresented. Spatial distribution maps highlight variability in diversity patterns, emphasizing the need for targeted conservation strategies to protect these biodiversity-rich zones. The findings underscore the importance of prioritizing regions with high grassland diversity for preservation efforts.
Diachronic analysis of the transformation of natural environments by morphopedological landscapes in the Comoé National Park (Northeastern Côte d’Ivoire)
A diachronic analysis reveals significant transformations in the natural environments of Comoé National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, driven by morphopedological landscapes. The study highlights how these dynamic landforms—shaped by geological and pedological processes—have evolved over time, influencing biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. Researchers employed a multi-temporal approach, integrating remote sensing data with field observations to map landscape changes across decades. This method uncovered critical patterns of environmental degradation and regeneration, offering insights into the park’s ecological adaptability. The findings underscore the importance of long-term monitoring in conservation strategies for UNESCO World Heritage Sites facing anthropogenic and climatic pressures.
First report of geophagy by chimpanzees in Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast
Researchers document the first confirmed instance of geophagy—soil consumption—in wild chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus) within Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast. Using camera-trap footage, they observed that chimpanzees of all ages and both sexes ingested soil, often facilitated by leaf-sponge tools, suggesting a potential reliance on mineral supplements like sodium or clay, particularly during the dry season. This behavior was consistently noted in one community over multiple years and sporadically in another, highlighting a possible ecological need for critically endangered West African chimpanzees inhabiting savanna-forest mosaics.
Interviews in ecology and conservation biology: A hidden treasure for the African ecologist
Face-to-face interviews with local communities, particularly hunters and resource users, are a highly effective method for gathering biodiversity data in African ecosystems. This approach, often overlooked but crucial during colonial-era scientific expeditions, provides precise ecological insights that surpass traditional field surveys. For instance, interviews in Liberia identified 23 species of mammals and reptiles more effectively than market or standardized field surveys. Similarly, in Togo, local hunters guided researchers to camera-traps capturing rare West African sitatunga, while in Côte d'Ivoire, interviews revealed the presence of the critically endangered Chief Goliath beetle. These interactions not only facilitate data collection but also foster trust and empower communities, enhancing conservation success. The study emphasizes that rigorous interview protocols, adapted to falsifiable hypotheses, can advance ecological understanding and support sustainable development by integrating traditional knowledge with modern science.
Living on the Forest Edge: Flexible Habitat Use in Sedentary Pied Flycatchers Ficedula Hypoleuca during the Non-Breeding Season
Migratory European Pied Flycatchers (Ficedula hypoleuca) adjust their habitat use dynamically during the non-breeding season in Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast, to track seasonal changes in food availability. Using remote sensing and radio tracking, researchers found that flycatchers initially occupy both savannah and forest habitats but shift preference toward savannah as foliation progresses, following savannah burning and early rainfall. This behavior correlates with increased arthropod abundance, suggesting that flycatchers exploit small-scale habitat heterogeneity to mitigate seasonal resource fluctuations. By establishing territories on the forest edge, individuals access diverse resources under varying conditions, highlighting the importance of fine-scale environmental variability in coping with seasonality.
Spatial assessment of nighttime anthropization in the Comoé National Park in Côte d’Ivoira (West Africa)
A significant level of nocturnal anthropization, characterized by artificial light at night (ALAN), has been identified within the Comoé National Park (CNP) in Côte d’Ivoire. This finding highlights the growing threat to the park's biodiversity and environmental balance due to human activities. The study employed geospatial data from the VIIRS/DNB to assess nocturnal anthropization using three key indices: light reflectance density, which pinpoints nighttime light emission sources; the lighted area density index (LADI), which reveals the nature of nocturnal activities; and the light intensity index (LII), which quantifies the impact on biodiversity. The research underscores the urgent need for effective management strategies to mitigate these pressures and safeguard CNP's ecological integrity.
Specific composition, abundances and phenology of migratory landbirds of the Comoé National Park, north-east of Ivory Coast
A comprehensive inventory of migratory landbirds in Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast, identified 72 species, with peak visitation occurring in March and April. The study, conducted from September 2017 to August 2019 across four habitats—savannahs, forest islands, gallery forests, and ponds—revealed distinct phenological patterns: intra-African and mixed migratory species were present year-round, while Palearctic-originating species frequented the park for nine months (September to early May). Using the listening point method at 63 locations, researchers recorded a total of 17,713 individuals, averaging 1,476.77±99.70 per month. This study provides critical insights into the temporal dynamics and composition of migratory landbirds in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting the importance of habitat diversity for avian migration.
A strategic approach to sourcing and using fire information in northern Côte d’Ivoire
A strategic approach to sourcing and using fire information has been successfully implemented in Comoé National Park, Côte d’Ivoire. This study demonstrates how recent advancements in Earth observation data, computing power, and geospatial technologies can be leveraged to compile detailed fire regime and land management information at multiple spatial and temporal scales. The approach supports fire management planning, reporting, documentation, and analysis, enabling effective implementation of management activities. By addressing the historical lack of detailed fire regime data in African protected areas, this study provides a scalable model for improving decision-making and tracking the impacts of conservation efforts.
Floristic and Physiognomy Characteristics of the Vegetation from the Sudanese Sector of Comoe National Park (North-East of Côte d'Ivoire)
A recent study reveals that the Sudanese sector of Comoé National Park, Côte d'Ivoire, hosts 546 plant species, including 20 previously unrecorded in the region. Dominated by Fabaceae (24%), Poaceae (20%), Cyperaceae (17%), and Rubiaceae (11%) families, the vegetation exhibits a high proportion of phanerophytes (52.26%) and significant overlap with Guinean-Congolese and Sudano-Zambézian flora (62.41%). This reflects a distinct physiognomic shift in the park's vegetation, contrasting sharply with its Sub-Sudanese sector. The research employed phytosociological surveys using the Braun-Blanquet method across 210 plots, providing critical insights into this understudied but ecologically rich area.
Putative white-naped mangabey (Cercocebus lunulatus) × olive baboon (Papio anubis) hybrids from Comoé National Park in Côte d’Ivoire
Researchers document the first potential hybrid between white-naped mangabeys (Cercocebus lunulatus) and olive baboons (Papio anubis) observed in the wild at Comoé National Park, Côte d’Ivoire. The discovery was made through field observations and camera trap footage capturing three juvenile male hybrids over two years (2019–2021). While intergeneric hybridization has been reported in captivity among Papionini species, this finding suggests possible natural gene flow between the two species in a savanna-dominated protected area. The study highlights the need for genetic analysis to confirm hybrid status and assess population structure, while also exploring ecological factors that may facilitate such cross-species interactions. Given the Endangered status of C. lunulatus and the potential conservation implications, further research is recommended to clarify gene flow dynamics and demographic changes in these primate populations.
Isolation, characterization, and genome assembly of Barnettozyma botsteinii sp. nov. and novel strains of Kurtzmaniella quercitrusa isolated from the intestinal tract of the termite Macrotermes bellicosus
Researchers have identified two novel strains of the yeast Kurtzmaniella quercitrusa and a new species, Barnettozyma botsteinii, from the gut of termites (Macrotermes bellicosus) in Côte d'Ivoire's Comoé National Park. These yeasts exhibit significant potential for industrial bioconversion due to their ability to efficiently metabolize pentose sugars like d-xylose, a byproduct of hemicellulose processing. Notably, K. quercitrusa strains grow 15% faster than the common yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae under acidic conditions and can utilize xylose as a sole carbon source. One strain, K. quercitrusa var. filamentosus, uniquely transitions to filamentous growth at neutral pH, depending on the carbon source, suggesting its adaptability for diverse industrial applications.
The Chimpanzees of the Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast. Status, distribution, ecology and behavior
A sustainable population of Western chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus) exists within Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast, and the adjacent Mont Tingui area, challenging previous assumptions of functional extinction. This population, comprising at least 127 weaned individuals across eight communities, exhibits unique ecological and behavioral traits. Unlike other chimpanzee populations, they rely heavily on forest habitats, consume a diverse diet including insects, monkeys, and snails, and employ specialized tool use, such as honey-dipping sticks with brushes—a behavior not documented elsewhere. They also demonstrate sustainable resource utilization, such as peeling Ceiba pentandra bark without causing tree mortality. The study, conducted from 2014 to 2019 using transects, camera traps, and detailed observations, reveals a distinct chimpanzee culture in Comoé, underscoring the need for urgent conservation efforts to protect this rare population from poaching and climate change.
Abondance et distribution des buffles Syncerus caffer (Sparrman, 1779) dans le Parc National de la Comoé, Nord-Est de la Côte d’Ivoire
A population of approximately 2,306 African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer) was estimated in Comoé National Park (PNC), Côte d’Ivoire, during the rainy season, with densities dropping to around 1,715 individuals in the dry season. This study, conducted from January 2018 to September 2019 using linear transect surveys and dung counts, provides critical insights into the abundance and seasonal distribution of this keystone species within PNC—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a priority area for West African biodiversity conservation. Buffaloes were predominantly found in central and western zones during the rainy season but shifted toward northern and southern regions during the dry season, likely due to resource availability or anthropogenic pressures. The research highlights significant threats from poaching and gold panning, particularly in the park’s northern and southeastern areas, emphasizing the need for semiannual monitoring to track demographic trends and inform conservation strategies.
Sustainable Peeling of Kapok Tree (Ceiba pentandra) Bark by the Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus) of Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast
Researchers discovered that chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus) in Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast, sustainably peel the bark of kapok trees (Ceiba pentandra) to access the cambium beneath, a behavior observed across multiple communities and age/sex classes. This activity occurs primarily during late rainy and early dry seasons when other food sources are scarce, suggesting an adaptive strategy to avoid resource depletion. Unlike baboons (Papio anubis), which consume the bark itself, chimpanzees target the cambium, with most peeled trees healing within two years without permanent damage. Only 6% of trees were reexploited after a year, indicating a sustainable use pattern. The study highlights parallels between chimpanzee and human past resource exploitation in harsh environments, underscoring the ecological significance of such behaviors.
Patterns of Diversity and Distribution of Arboreal Social Bees’ Beehives within Chimpanzees’ Home Range in a Forest-Savanna Mosaic (Comoé National Park, Côte d’Ivoire)
Research in Comoé National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, reveals that chimpanzees frequently exploit the honey of stingless bees, particularly Meliponula ferruginea, within a forest-savanna mosaic. The study identified five bee species across 16 one-hectare plots in three habitat types: mature forest island (4.2 beehives/ha), secondary forest island (1.9 beehives/ha), and gallery forest (1.1 beehives/ha). Bees nested primarily in Dialium guineense trees, with no significant influence of tree diameter or beehive height on chimpanzee exploitation. These findings suggest that bee species diversity may play a critical role in the survival of chimpanzees in such landscapes.
Comoé National Park – a refuge for critically endangered vulture species in West Africa
Comoé National Park (CNP) in northeastern Côte d'Ivoire serves as a critical refuge for five vulture species, including the critically endangered Whiteheaded Vulture (Trigonoceps occipitalis). The park's diverse savannah-forest mosaic and gallery forests along major rivers provide essential habitats for these birds. A long-term study conducted between 1994 and 2000, totaling approximately 24 months of fieldwork, documented the presence and frequency of these species, highlighting CNP's ecological significance in West Africa. The research underscores the park's role as a stronghold for vulture conservation, particularly for threatened species facing decline elsewhere in the region.
Fluid dipping technology of chimpanzees in Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast
Researchers discovered that chimpanzees in Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast, employ a specialized tool-use behavior for extracting water from tree holes using brush-tip modified sticks. This 'fluid dipping' technique was observed across multiple age and sex classes and communities, suggesting cultural transmission. The study, conducted over six months during the dry season, analyzed stick tools used for foraging ants, termites, honey, and water, revealing significant differences in tool morphology between water-dipping and honey-dipping tools. Water-dipping tools featured longer and thicker brush-tips. While this behavior was limited to the late dry season despite alternative water sources being available, its widespread presence highlights the chimpanzees' unique behavioral repertoire, underscoring the importance of their conservation.
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