Publications
A Comparison of Chimpanzee Density Estimators in Southern Congo
A groundbreaking study in the Tchimpounga Nature Reserve (TNR), Republic of Congo, reveals that Spatially Explicit Capture-Recapture (SECR) analysis is the most precise and cost-effective method for estimating chimpanzee density. Using camera trap data collected over six months, researchers identified 116 chimpanzees across a 252 km² grid, yielding a density estimate of 0.87 individuals per km² (95% CI: 0.58-1.30). This finding aligns with the distance sampling method's estimate of 0.81/km² but underscores SECR's superior reliability. The study marks the first application of SECR to great apes in Congo, providing critical insights for conservation efforts in the Odzala-Kokoua Forest Massif. This approach offers a robust foundation for monitoring chimpanzee populations amid habitat loss and illegal hunting pressures.
Contribution to the knowledge of the Nolinae of the Republic of Congo, with descriptions of four new genera and 54 new species (Lepidoptera, Noctuoidea, Nolidae, Nolinae)
A groundbreaking study reveals the rich biodiversity of Nolinae moths (Lepidoptera) in the Republic of Congo, identifying four new genera and 54 new species from Odzala-Kokoua and Nouabalé-Ndoki National Parks. This comprehensive account, based on seven sampling expeditions, documents a total of 114 species, significantly expanding our understanding of this taxonomic group. The research also establishes three new synonymies, providing clarity to the region's moth taxonomy. Comparative analysis highlights distinct distribution patterns between the two parks, offering insights into ecological differences and conservation priorities in these UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Antheua lobo Laszlo & Schintlmeister 2025, sp. nov.
A new moth species, Antheua lobo, has been discovered within the Odzala-Kokoua National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Republic of Congo. This species is distinguished by its smaller size (forewing length 19–22 mm in males and 23 mm in females), unique genitalia morphology, and absence of a pale discal spot characteristic of related species like A. obtusipuncta. Key distinguishing features include a blackish shadow at the base of the forewing anal margin, bilobated uncus tip, shorter socius processes, and less sclerotized female genitalia. The discovery was made through extensive light-trapping surveys conducted near the Lobo research camp, which revealed A. lobo's restriction to isolated savannah and grassland habitats within the Congo Basin. This finding highlights the biodiversity richness of Odzala-Kokoua, emphasizing the importance of protected areas in conserving unique species.
Diversity of Leaf Katydids of Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Republic of Congo, Central Tropical Africa (Insecta: Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae)
A groundbreaking study of Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Republic of Congo, has uncovered significant biodiversity within the leaf katydid (Tettigoniidae) community. Researchers described one new genus and six new species, including Phanreticula fenestrata n. sp., Habrocomes piotri n. sp., and Conocephalus (Anisoptera) mollyae n. sp. Additionally, the first female specimens of Paraeulioptera emitflesti were collected, allowing for its reclassification within the tribe Catoptropterigini. The study also rediscovered Pleothrix conradti after 118 years and described the male of Griffinipteryx mukonja for the first time. An updated taxonomy of the genus Tetraconcha now includes 24 species, with two new additions from Ivory Coast. Overall, 108 Tettigoniidae species were documented, highlighting the park's rich entomological diversity.
LWRsand condition factors of 32 fish species from the Odzala-Kokoua National Park(Republic of Congo, Central Africa)
A comprehensive analysis of length-weight relationships (LWRs) and condition factors for 32 fish species in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Republic of Congo, reveals significant variability in growth patterns and physiological states. The allometric coefficient b of LWRs ranged from 2.158 to 3.546, while condition factor values spanned from 0.524-0.937 for Xenomystus nigri to an exceptionally high 10.402-14.967 for Distichodus teugelsi, indicating species-specific differences in growth dynamics and body composition. This study provides critical baseline data on fish biology in the Congo Basin, contributing to broader understanding of aquatic ecosystems in this biodiverse region.
Natural Forest Clearings Enable the Persistence of Stable Spotted Hyena Populations in Congo Basin Rainforests
Research reveals that spotted hyenas (Crocuta crocuta) can sustain stable populations within Congo Basin rainforests, challenging the long-held assumption that they are primarily transient through such ecosystems. A study conducted over five years in Odzala-Kokoua National Park (OKNP), Republic of Congo, used camera trap imagery, GPS telemetry data from hyenas, and remote sensing to analyze their presence across 10 natural forest clearings known as bais. The findings indicate that hyena persistence is linked to the availability of large prey and open-canopy areas surrounding these clearings, suggesting remarkable behavioral adaptability in this species. This discovery prompts a reevaluation of spotted hyena distribution maps, potentially extending their recognized range to include forested regions beyond OKNP.
Spatulosia elegans Volynkin, 2025, sp. n.
A newly discovered moth species, Spatulosia elegans, has been identified in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Republic of Congo. This elegant species, distinguished by its unique male genitalia structures, differs from similar Spatulosia species through key morphological traits such as a broader uncus and valva, among others. The discovery was made through extensive field sampling using actinic light traps and molecular analysis, with specimens collected across various locations within the park. While the female remains unknown, genetic data suggest a significant evolutionary distinction from closely related species like S. ivindo, with a pairwise distance of 3.17%. The specific epithet 'elegans' reflects its graceful appearance, contributing to the rich biodiversity documented in this critical conservation area.
Spatulosia lobo Volynkin, 2025, sp. n.
A new species of moth, Spatulosia lobo, has been discovered in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park within the UNESCO-listed Forest Massif of Odzala-Kokoua. This species is distinguished by its ochreous yellow coloration and reduced forewing markings, setting it apart from sympatric and allopatric congeners like S. gemina and S. similis. Key distinguishing features include differences in male and female genitalia structures, such as the broader uncus and valvula in females, and a distally downcurved phallus with fewer carinal thorns in males. The discovery was made through light trapping at Lobo Research Camp, with type material collected between 2024 and 2025. Molecular data for this species is currently unavailable.
Spatulosia odzala Volynkin, 2025, sp. n.
A new species of moth, Spatulosia odzala, has been discovered within the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Odzala-Kokoua National Park in the Republic of Congo. This species is characterized by its distinct forewing coloration and unique male genital capsule features, which set it apart from related species like S. tenebrosa, S. bispinata, and S. africana. The discovery was made through morphological analysis of type specimens collected during a field expedition in 2024. While molecular data is currently unavailable, the study highlights the biodiversity significance of Odzala-Kokoua National Park, emphasizing its role as a critical habitat for yet-to-be-studied species.
Spatulosia smithi Volynkin, 2025, sp. n.
A new species of moth, Spatulosia smithi, has been discovered within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Forest Massif of Odzala-Kokoua. This species is distinguished by its relatively large size (forewing length 8.5–9.5 mm) and deep ochreous brown forewing ground color, setting it apart from similar congeners like S. pringlei and S. clavata. Key diagnostic features include the configuration of the male genital capsule and a uniquely structured phallus with a long, heavily sclerotized ventral carina bearing a massive claw-shaped process. The discovery was made through entomological expeditions in the Republic of Congo, Uganda, and Rwanda, utilizing MV light traps to collect specimens. Molecular data for this species are currently unavailable, but its distribution spans these three countries, contributing to our understanding of biodiversity within this critical World Heritage Site.
Spatial ecology, biodiversity, and abiotic determinants of Congo's bai ecosystem
Research in Odzala-Kokoua National Park reveals that bais—large, natural forest clearings—are more abundant and ecologically significant than previously understood. The study mapped 2176 bais, challenging the notion of their rarity while confirming their role as rare riparian habitats due to their small size (<1 ha for 80.7%) and clustered distribution in low-lying areas. Bais exhibit distinct plant and animal communities, soil properties, and vegetation structures compared to other open ecosystems, highlighting two identifiable types. Combining remote sensing with field surveys, the study integrated hydrological, topographical, and biodiversity data to demonstrate bais' unique ecological contribution to Congolese rainforests.
Perceptions and uses of pangolins (Pholidota) among remote rural communities in the Republic of the Congo: A baseline study from the Odzala‐Kokoua National Park
A survey of 65 rural communities near Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Republic of the Congo, reveals high recognition (98.2%) and diverse traditional uses—including medicinal and culinary—of pangolins, with meat taste ranked highly by respondents (71.3%). The study identifies sociocultural and demographic variations in local knowledge and market value perceptions, noting higher familiarity along the northern park boundary, likely due to better infrastructure and proximity to Cameroon. These findings provide critical baseline data for conservation policies targeting pangolin protection in Central Africa.
The genetic impact of an Ebola outbreak on a wild gorilla population
A severe Ebola outbreak in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park (Republic of Congo) in 2004 led to a 95% mortality rate among western lowland gorillas. Despite this catastrophic event, genetic analysis revealed no significant changes in population diversity or gut microbiome composition between survivors and non-survivors. However, researchers identified six nominally significant missense mutations in four genes that may have conferred increased survival advantages. This study provides the first genetic insights into the resilience of wild great ape populations following an Ebola outbreak, offering potential candidate loci linked to survival.
Movement patterns of forest elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis Matschie, 1900) in the Odzala‐Kokoua National Park, Republic of Congo
Forest elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis) exhibit distinct movement patterns influenced by environmental and anthropogenic factors, with females traveling farther than males. The study, conducted in Odzala-Kokoua National Park using GPS-collared individuals tracked over 16 months, found that roads and human settlements disrupt elephant behavior, leading to faster displacements. Elephants moved more rapidly along watercourses and in Marantaceae-dominated forests but slowed in savannahs. Flood-prone areas and higher temperatures also hindered longer movements. These findings provide critical insights into the species' habitat use, aiding conservation efforts.
Population numbers, density and activity patterns of servals in savannah patches of Odzala‐Kokoua National Park, Republic of Congo
A study in Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Republic of Congo, provides the first robust density estimates for servals (Leptailurus serval) in Central Africa, with densities ranging from 7.7 to 9.8 individuals per 100 km². The research used camera-trapping over eight months, capturing 51 individuals, predominantly the servaline morph characterized by small 'freckled' spots. Analysis revealed distinct activity patterns between males and females, with males being largely nocturnal while females were mainly diurnal, likely influenced by the presence of spotted hyaenas (Crocuta crocuta). The study also highlights the importance of incorporating individual and trap placement covariates to improve precision in density estimates for future research.
Population ecology, conservation status and genetics of the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Republic of Congo, including an assessment of the status of spotted hyenas in southeast Gabon
A critical decline of the last remaining spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) population in Central Africa, confined to Odzala-Kokoua National Park (OKNP), Republic of Congo, is imminent due to poaching with illegal wire snares. This study reveals that the population—comprising five clans and eight transient individuals—has shrunk by nearly 50% within two years, with 11 likely deaths recorded. The hyenas' survival hinges on the abundance of key prey species like forest buffalo (Syncerus caffer nanus), red river hog (Potamocherus porcus), and bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus), which dominate their diet but show minimal activity overlap, indicating high energy investment for foraging. The study also highlights the vulnerability of this isolated population to stochastic threats like disease and inbreeding. Camera trapping and acoustic monitoring of communal den sites—critical for clan survival—reveal human infrastructure disturbances as additional risks. Immediate intervention is required to prevent extinction.
Description of Hylopanchax paucisquamatus (Cyprinodontiformes: Poeciliidae), a new lampeye species from the Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Republic of Congo
Researchers have identified and described Hylopanchax paucisquamatus, a new species of deep-bodied lampeye fish (Cyprinodontiformes: Poeciliidae) from the Odzala-Kokoua National Park in the Republic of Congo. This discovery represents the first deep-bodied Hylopanchax species found outside the Kasaï River drainage, distinguishing it from related congeners like H. leki and H. ndeko. The species is characterized by a unique combination of morphological traits, including a low number of mid-longitudinal and transverse scales, dorsal-fin ray count, and the position of its dorsal fin relative to the anal fin. The study highlights the biodiversity significance of the Odzala-Kokoua region, contributing to our understanding of freshwater fish diversity in the Congo basin.
The status of savanna carnivores in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park, northern Republic of Congo
Lions (Panthera leo) are likely extinct in the Republic of Congo and neighboring Gabon, with no signs detected during extensive surveys in Odzala-Kokoua National Park. However, the park remains critical for hyena tachetée (Crocuta crocuta) conservation, as 46 individuals were documented through 154 camera-trap photographs over 424 days of monitoring. The study also recorded smaller carnivores like leopards (Panthera pardus), servals (Leptailurus serval), and African golden cats (Caracal aurata). Researchers covered 460 km on foot, combining trail surveys with camera traps to assess the status of savanna carnivores in this isolated mosaic landscape. These findings underscore Odzala-Kokoua's regional importance for hyenas and smaller predators amid declining lion populations.
African weakly electric fishes of the genus Petrocephalus (Osteoglossomorpha: Mormyridae) of Odzala National Park, Republic of the Congo (Lékoli River, Congo River basin) with description of five new species
Researchers identify five new species of weakly electric fishes (genus Petrocephalus) in Odzala National Park, Republic of the Congo. These discoveries expand the known biodiversity of the Lékoli River within the Congo River basin, contributing to the understanding of electric fish diversity in African freshwater ecosystems. The study employs morphological and genetic analyses to distinguish these species, highlighting the importance of Odzala's unique aquatic habitats for conservation efforts.
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