The diversity of small mammals in a mixed fruit orchard at Bukit Bekong limestone massif, Merapoh, Pahang, Malaysia

Abstract

The increasing forest fragmentation due to human encroachment has isolated and scattered forest patches and limestone karsts. Agroforestry has been touted as a sustainable solution for the agriculture sector to yield crops and also provide alternative habitats for wildlife outside protected areas and linking forest patches and isolated limestone karsts. This initial survey was conducted to evaluate small mammals (bats and non-volant) assemblages present in a mixed fruit orchard bordering Bukit Bekong limestone massif in Merapoh, Pahang. We captured 193 individuals from 28 species (13 for bats & 15 for non-volant) using mist nets, harp traps and cage traps. This orchard contains Nycteris tragata and Kerivoula pellucida, listed as Near Threatened plus Maxomys rajah as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List, revealing the fact that this small area in comparison to protected areas possesses unprecedented conservation value. Furthermore, 15 out of 28 small mammal species captured are habitat generalist may provide a cause of concern for the loss of forest specialists. Nonetheless, our results show that less intensively managed agroforest like mixed fruit orchard can also support forest specialists that are sensitive to disturbance. Moreover, the presence of limestone karst nearby contributes to bat diversity, especially cave-roosting bats. In summary, the diversity of small mammals in agroforest is worth to be studied as the species accumulation curve in this one mixed fruit orchard has yet to reach an asymptote. We hope future biodiversity data in agroforest will be incorporated in agriculture management strategies to stimulate sustainable agriculture and promoting mammal diversity.