Pikacha, P. and M. Sirikolo - Ecological Solutions, Solomon Islands

Transcription

Biodiversity of
the Crater Area &
surrounding mountain
forests, Kolombangara
Island
by Patrick Pikacha & Myknee Sirikolo
Biodiversity of the Crater
Area & surrounding
mountain forests,
Kolombangara Island
by Patrick Pikacha & Myknee Sirikolo
Kolombangara
Island Biodiversity
& Conservation
Association
2
Biodiversity of the Crater Area & surrounding mountain forests, Kolombangara Island
November 2010
Contents
Title.........................................................................................................................................................2
Contents..................................................................................................................................................3
Acknowledgment....................................................................................................................... .............4
Summary..................................................................................................................................................4
1.0 Introduction.................................................................................................................................5
1.1 Biodiversity of Kolombangara Island.........................................................................................5
1.2 Aim of the survey and report.....................................................................................................5
1.3 Composition of the assessment....................................................................................................6
2.0 The Field Assessment...................................................................................................................6
2.1 Geography of the New Georgian Islands.....................................................................................6
2.2 Terrestrial Ecosystems of Kolombangara Island...........................................................................6
2.2.1 Mangrove and Coastal Forests..........................................................................................7
2.2.2 Lowland Forests..............................................................................................................8
2.2.3 Ridge and Hill Forests.....................................................................................................8
2.2.4 Montane and Cloud Forests.............................................................................................9
2.2.5 Plantations & Secondary forests.......................................................................................9
2.3 Survey Methodology................................................................................................................10
2.3.1 Plants...........................................................................................................................10
2.3.2 Birds and bats...............................................................................................................10
2.3.3 Reptiles, mammals, and birds........................................................................................10
2.3.4 Frogs.............................................................................................................................11
2.4 Results ...................................................................................................................................11
2.4.1 Plants............................................................................................................................11
2.4.2 Birds..............................................................................................................................12
2.4.3 Mammals.......................................................................................................................15
2.4.4 Reptiles..........................................................................................................................16
2.4.5 Frogs..............................................................................................................................18
3.0 Major Threats to Biodiversity of Kolombangara’s Forests...........................................................20
3.1 Logging.................................................................................................................................20
3.2 Gardening & agriculture.........................................................................................................20
3.3 Plantations.............................................................................................................................20
4.
Discussion..................................................................................................................................21
5.
Conclusion.................................................................................................................................21
6.
Recommendations.....................................................................................................................22
Biodiversity
3
Acknowledgment
We thank Kolombangara Island Biodiversity and Conservation Association, the many field guides,
portars, local scientists, and field assistants. Funding was provided by WWFs Forestry Program, funding
for which was provided by the European Union.
Summary
As a result of it’s extreme relief and topography, the island of Kolombangara has very high biodiversity
compared to the rest of the New Georgian islands in Solomon Islands, Western Province. The island
supports many different ecosystems and habitats. At certain locations around the island, forest corridors
extend from above 1700m asl to sea-level, forming a sweeping gradient of vegetation types specialized to
each elevation. Overlapping of transitional forests between hill and lowland forest types at the 400m asl
contour is rich in both plant and faunal species. This overlaying of lowland and upland forest characteristics
has resulted in high levels of biodiversity at this junction with dispersal of flora and faunal species above
and below the contour.
The landscape of Kolombangara is quite spectacular, being only one of two mountain systems above
1700m asl in the Solomon Islands. Characterize by high ridgelines the inside caldera is steep, plummeting
at some areas to more than 500m enscarpments. Exposed rock faces, and loose gravel and vegetation cling
within these steep slopes, providing important retreat and nesting sites for shearwater birds.
Extending above the 400m asl contour and to higher ridgelines, endemism becomes greater. Endemic
birds like Kolombangara white - eyes (Zosterops murphyi), Kolombangara leaf warbler (Phylloscopus
amoenus), and montane specialists like the blue faced parrot finches (Erythrura trichroa), Meek’s lorikeet
(Charmosyna meeki), red-breasted pygmy parrots (Micropsitta bruijnii), and pale mountain pigeons
(Gymnophaps solomonensis) are restricted to the high ridgelines and slopes. A new species of frog was
discovered at above 1600m asl repesented by two captured individuals, and at least two other unknown
species were heard calling high in the mossy vegetation at this site. The lower slopes and crater region
has high diversity and general abundance of birds, frogs and reptiles compared to the high slopes and
ridgelines. And of frogs, expeditions are continually revealing new and rare species.
The disappearance of biodiversity on Kolombangara Island and elsewhere in the Solomon Islands,
poses a real threat to important species and the country’s natural heritage, and to the survival of forest
dependent communities. Industrial logging and deforestation caused by farming, and to make way for
villages continues to threaten biodiversity on the island. Realizing this loss, and capitalizing on the
opportunity to conservation and benefit from this natural heritage communites around Kolombangara
Island have rallied to form the Kolombangara Island Biodiversity and Conservation Association, who’s
purpose is to conservation the natural heritage of the island, search for opportunities to develop sustainable
enterprises such as eco-tourism, and other livelihood preferences to large scale industrial logging.
This survey report is aimed to provide a concise snap shot of Kolombangara’s biodiversity values in
terms of some vertebrate species and plant checklists, situate the islands biodiversity within the scope
of the country’s biodiversity values, and suggest a set of research and conservation opportunities that
capitalizes on this rich natural system.
4
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Biodiversity of Kolombangara Island
The biodiversity of Kolombangara Island has been well documented in the Solomon Islands compared
to other islands. In particular have the diversification of birds been studied and documented by Myer
and Diamond (Diamond, 1975), and recently by Filardi (Filardi and Moyle, 2005; Filardi et al, 2008).
Kolombangara Island has high bird endemism, and province has the second highest area of bird endemism
to Makira island, with 10 species. Other vertebrates like reptiles and frogs have also been studied, with
expeditions still discovering new species (Filardi, 2010). Furthermore many vertebrates here are presently
threatened or high vulnerable, owing to mixture of natural and anthropogenic factors.
The rich floral diversity of Kolombangara have been examined and published by T.C. Whitmore (1966).
During his tenure as a resident forester and scientist on Kolombangara the creation of permanent forest
plots in selected locations around the island were established, resulting in long term ecological floristic
studies. Broad habitat characteristics on Kolombangara consist of montane cloud forests, lowland and
ridge or hill forests, coastal forests, and exotic timber tree plantations. These locales provide significant
niche space for many vertebrate species, with some species absent from disturbed and modified habitats.
Unique to Kolombangara, has been the establishment of large forest plantations just about encircling
the entire island. Plantations provide a monotonous and continuous set of plants of secondary forests
and tree species, allowing for the comparison of vertebrate species composition in different forest sites.
Ecological functions, species richness, abundance and composition of vertebrates are further influenced
by a number of factors, such as the presence of invasive species, habitat type, climate variability, and levels
of disturbance. This preliminary report provides an initial checklist of the vertebrate assemblage and flora
characteristics of the upper Vila River catchment and of selected forests above the 400m asl contour.
1.2 Aim of the survey and report
To determine the status and document components of biodiversity and the different ecosystems within
the target areas on Kolombangara Island. This included selected representative forests above the 400m
contour, and the crater area below the central cordillera. Species in focus included, all plant groups, birds,
frogs, rats and possums, snakes insects and butterflies, bats and flying foxes.
Objectives
1. Identify and record an inventory of all biological species (plants and animals) noted;
2. Identify and record all the different habitats
This report presents a checklist of the flora and fauna in all represented target areas. And some ecology
notes on some taxa as a snapshot of the biodiversity values of the remote crater and high ridges of the
Kolombangara hinterland.
Biodiversity
5
1.3 Composition of the assessment
A checklist of plants was conducted by Myknee Sirikolo, WWF’s forestry and conservation officer and
botanist. This took place within the selected sites both in the crater area and the high ridgelines. Dominant
plant and tree species, and associated plant complexes representative of each forest type were noted.
Freshwater vertebrates and connected stream associates were recorded by David Boseto, along the main
upper Vila River and a network of minor tributories. David was assisted by Myknee Sirikolo, Hensllyn
Boseto, Moffat Fanerii, Wayne Tefenoli and Kevu Mada. Collections and a list of frogs were made by
Patrick Pikacha. Other vertebrates recorded included a list of reptiles, and birds opportunistically sighted
or heard calling during the course of the trip. P. Pikacha was assisted by Myknee Sirikolo, Tyrone Lavery,
Catherine Hughes, David Boseto and Hensllyn Boseto. Collated data from previous survey expeditions
in the general area also contributed data to the summary of this report.
2.0 The field Assessment
2.1 Geography of the New Georgian Islands
Western Province comprises 19% of the total land area in the Solomon Islands. Of the 5,475km2 land
area in the province, at least 93.2% was forested in 1960 (Ministry of Forest, Environment & Conservation
1995). Following the Governments forestry act in 1960, serious industrial logging commence in 1963
(Sandoms, 2005), and the Western Province was targeted, perhaps for its accessibility to tree stocks, and
the density of log volumes (Ministry of Forest, Environment & Conservation 1995; Bennett, 2000).
In recent years the amount of damage and destruction caused by unregulated large scale commercial
logging, agricultural deforestation, and the introduction of invasive animals particularly cats, dogs and
rats has greatly impacted the indigenous flora and fauna of the Western Province (Pikacha, 2008). This has
resulted in the sequential extirpation and extinction of some mammals (Flannery, 1995), birds (Birdlife
International, 2008), and has threatened numerous herpetofaunal assemblages (Morrison et al, 2007).
The New Georgia Group islands covers a land area of 5,060 km2, and oriented in a northwest trend for
235 km, with the islands of Pleistocene and recent volcanic origin (Mann et al, 1998). The land mass
is a matrix of connected cones, some separated by water by a few kilometres. Dominated by lowland
rainforest only three islands, Rendova, Vangunu and Kolombangara, have peaks beyond 1000 m asl,
whist three others, Ranongga, Gatokae and New Georgia ranged from 800 – 900 m asl. As a result of
the Massenerhebung effect, or the compression and limited zonation of montane forests on these islands,
certain vertebrate populations and community compositions such as frogs are especially vulnerable owing
to the effects of climate change and the restricted distribution within these forest types.
Terrestrial Ecosystems of Kolombangara Island
2.2
Located in the western Solomon Islands, Kolombangara Island at 157°E, 8°S is part of the New Georgian
chain of islands. An extinct Pleistocene volcano, the island is almost evenly circular spanning 32 km in
width, and nearly completely symmetrical in topography (Whitmore, 1989). The highest crater rim is Mt
Veve (1,770 m asl) and more accessible summit rim of the caldera is at Mt Rano (1700 m asl).
6
Most lowland forests around Kolombangara have been logged out with exceptions to a few patches of
corridors forests connecting coastal forests to high ridge forests, owned by the Kolombangara Forest and
Plantations Ltd (KFPL). Plantation forests have replaced most of the lowland forests, encircling almost
two thirds of the islands accessible lowland forests. Patches of secondary forests have re-grown in some
parts of the island reaching high canopy stands. These grow mostly along stream barriers, adjacent to
plantations, with widths between 20 – 50m from the stream.
Kolombangara is unique for having a forested crater with deep caverns and gorges. Crater forests
contains plants that are restricted to extremely wet conditions, plants surviving on high humidity and
rainfall. Restricted to a special micro climate, typical to that condition. Plants that are restricted in their
distribution, for exampls species of ferns, and herbaceous plants, fleshy stemmed plants rich in water
contents, and shrubs and trees, mosses. lichens or cryptogamic plants.
2.2.1 Mangrove and Coastal Forests
The wetlands and southern swamp lands and coastal forests of Kolombangara were placed in the Directory
of Wetlands of Oceania, as experts recognize it’s importance as a refuge for biodiversity (Scott, 1993).
Southern Kolombangara has the most intact and extensive mangrove and coastal forests around the
island. These buffer lowland forests, and protected watersheds and villages along the coast. Mangroves
forests and associated plants are dominated by Pandanus tectorius, Pandanus sp., Bruguiera gymnorrihiza,
Rhizophora apiculata, Rhizophora stylosa. Mangroves forest are important both to biodiversity and humans.
They form refuge sites for some vertebrates, and are spawning sites for many species of fish. Mangrove
pods are harvested by humans, the flesh shred into thin lengths and cooked as food.
Coastal forests are dominated by
Barringtonia asiatica, Calophyllum
inophyllum,
Premna
corymbosa,
Terminalia catappa, and Hibiscus
tiliaceus, coastal forests are also
abundant in fruiting and seeding trees,
and frequented by many species of
birds and bats.
Mangrove forests, south Kolombangara
Island. (Photo: H. Boseto)
Biodiversity
7
2.2.2 Lowland Forests
Lowland forests are very rich in terms of floristic plant and tree diversity. Densities of timber trees
growing in lowland forests are more highest compared to any other forest type. As a result these forests
have been the continuous target of logging and timber companies. Lowland forests of Kolombangara
are dominated by Campnosperma brevipetiolata, Terminalia brassii typically along freshwater swamps and
up river catchments, Pometia pinnata, Vitex cofassus, Calophyllum peekelli, and Elaeocarpus sphaericus. Palms
and ferns grow in the understory
here, and sometimes extend up slopes
connecting to ridgelines. Given the
mixture of niche space, micro climate,
and forest complexity, diversity of
vertebrates such as frogs, reptiles, birds
and mammals are richest within these
forests.
Typical lowland forest, Kolombangara
Island. (Photo: P. Pikacha)
2.2.3 Ridge and Hill Forest
Ridge forests are transitional forests that are also representative along high river valleys. Typical high
ridge forests are where moss and lichens beginning to enshroud shrub and trees. Cyrtandra sp., ferns,
and Pandanus sp. grow along the high valleys, whilst the high ridgelines are characteristic of montane
forests with Rhododendron sp, Syzygium sp, and Nastus sp. taking over the general forest type. Hill or ridge
forests exist above lowland forests, extending up higher into montane and cloud forests. Ridgeline forests,
particularly on the upper slopes of island are often exposed to high winds and rainfall. In prehistoric
times ridge forests offered shelter for human occupation from other tribes. Evidence of human settlement
on the ridgelines and hill forests above
the Imbu Rano Lodge maybe be seen
all the way up to 700m asl. There is
a interchange of mixed lowland and
montane or submontane characteristics
overlapping in the floral complexity of
ridge forests. High canopy reaching
Typical high ridge forests on the slopes of
Mt Veve, Kolombangara Island. (Photo: P.
Pikacha)
8
trees are dominated by Syzygium spp, Metrosideros spp, Campnosperma brevipetiolata, Vitex cofassus, Pometia
pinnata and Calophyllum spp. Whilst the undergrowth is dominated by ferns and palms and shrubs.
2.2.4 Montane & Cloud Forests
Almost always shrouded in cloud, cloud or montane forests cover a sparse area on Kolombangara, mostly
above 700m asl. Plants are mostly clad in wet moss, epiphytes, and lichens. The dominant plants here
include Syzygium spp, Metrosideros spp, Rhodomyrtus spp, Rhododendron spp, Calophyllum sp, with the
understory occupied by Rubus spp which is common in high altitude forests, and is a typical species in
montane forests. Rubus spp is an edible fruit and part of the rasp berry family. Ground and understorey
orchids include Calanthe ventilabrum, Dendrobium spp, Bulbophyllum spp, Macodes spp, Malaxis spp, and
Phretia spp. Ferns are also abundant in this environment, becoming dominant in areas of landslips and
exposed sites.
Continuous cloud’s and mist provide moisture and precipitation here with temperatures cooler than in
lowland forests. Day time temperatures on the slopes of Mt Veve ranged between 20 and 25 degree celcius,
whilst night time temperatures were
between 12 and 15 degrees celcius.
Animals of the montane forests
are often unique and endemic.
Kolombangara island has a few
endemic species confined to this forest
habitat.
Typical high montane forests on the
slopes of Mt Veve, Kolombangara Island.
(Photo: P. Pikacha)
2.2.5 Plantations & Secondary forests
Plantation forests were established by Kolombangara Forests and Plantations Ltd (KFPL) about 20
years ago, and today cover an extensive area around the island. Small landowner plantations may also
be found near garden areas and village outskirts. Secondary forests also cover an extensive range, the
remnant regrowths of previous logging by Levers more than 30 years ago. In some areas, secondary
forests have regrown to occupy the canopy space of primary forests, dominated by Pometia pinnata and
Calophyllum sp. Plantation trees on Kolombangara include, Kamarere (Eucalypus deglupta), Mahogany
(Swietenia macrophylla), Teak (Tectona grandis), White teak (Gmelina arborea), providing a monotonous
landscape of timber trees. Ground cover in plantations are often ferns and weeds. In secondary forests
saplings dominate the understory. There is often one layer in secondary forests, compared to multiple
layers in primary forests.
Biodiversity
9
Vertebrate diversity in secondary forests is generally lower than that of primary forests, however, there
is still a rich diversity of reptiles, birds, and mammals found here. Frogs are more impacted in secondary
and plantation forests, with only the hardy species like Ceratobatrachus guentheri, and some species of
Platymantis able to survive here.
2.3 Survey Methodology
Several standard survey methods were used in this research dependant on the target taxa. Collectively
these methods were useful in providing an initial checklist of important species. For further intensive
efforts and surveys, other specialized survey techniques, for example the use of sticky boards, pit fall trap,
etc, would have possibly yielded more vertebrate diversity and added to the checklist count. However,
given the time constraints and nature of this quick survey, fast and reliable methods were used.
2.3.1 Plants
Forest vegetation was sampled in selected sites on Kolombangara. The sites surveyed included Mangrove
swamplands around Ringgi Cove, and along the coast in the Ringgi harbour, the crater forests of the island,
forests around Imbu Rano Lodge, ridge forests between 400 and 700m asl, and the high ridge forests
above 1,600m asl. A checklist of plants was made by walking through the selected representative sites,
and sampling and recording plants both at the ground level, mid canopy and high canopy. The dominant
species, indicator species of different forest types was documented providing a overall indicator of the
various ecosystems and habitat qualities that are found in the selected areas of study on Kolombangara.
2.3.2 Birds and bats
Mist nets
Mist nets were used in the forest understory around Imbu Rano. Birds and bats captured here were mostly
lower canopy species. Although an effective tool for inventory of birds, nets are sometimes only limited to
lower forest specialists, or forest generalists, overlooking the high canopy specialists. Nets were placed at
ridgelines, and gaps in the forest, blocking off suspected routes to maximize the chances of capture. These
were open in the morning, and checked at regular intervals, and closed at 8pm.
.3.3 Reptiles, mammals, and birds
2
Opportunistic day searches
Opportunistic day time searchs took place for reptiles, mammals and birds. Species encountered were
recorded in a field notebook, and some photographs were taken. By walking along the footpath in selected
forest areas, a general sweep of the reptile, mammal and bird fauna was recorded. Due to limited time,
and effort due to time constraints, results from this survey technique are an underestimate of the species
richness of these sites, and should only be treated as such. Most opportunistic surveys took place during
daytime, between 10am and 3pm.
Opportunistic night searches
Spotlighting took place during the night time. Mammals were searched for with the use of powerful
LED P17 and P14 torches. Mamamals such as the cuscus and bats, and some birds were also identified
through spotlighting. Spotlighing and searches for frogs also took place in selected sites. Frogs were then
10
identified and some specimens collected for later DNA analysis.
2.3.4 Frogs
Systematic Distance Line Samples & count data
Use of line transect sampling is a relatively simple, reliable, and robust method that is broadly used in
wildlife population surveys and assessments. Within the crater forests, a 100-m transect was be walked at
night and individual frogs identified to species by their call, morphology, or both. Altitude, vegetation and
other site factors are measured at each transect. Most count data estimates of frogs were done by visual
encounter surveys (VES) and distance sample surveys were used in this study as indicant tools to further
investigate the distribution, and to estimate the density of each frog species. Systematic night searches
took place between 7pm and 12 midnight with most intensive surveys conducted around the Imbu Rano
Lodge and in the crater forest area. Frog activity decreased after 10pm as the number of calling males
stopped calling or the number of individual frogs calling reduced. Searches of the transect areas without
frog calls resulted in less encounters.
Call records
Some frog calls were recorded using an Olympus digital recorder. Calls were used as signature acoustic
sounds for identifying the common and less common species. These could then be downloaded into a
Sonic Visualiser program to examine the call. Potential new species of frogs and variation in calls between
the common species could be examined with the use of sound technology.
To record the calls, we walked a transect or forest path in the forest. When a frog call was heard the
recorder was simply placed in the direction of the call at a distance of 1.5 to 3 meters from the animal
so as not to be too close to distort the sound. The record button was switched on and the acoustic sound
documented digitally. After the survey that same night, the call was then downloaded and labelled along
with the specimen number.
Collections
A couple of collections of frogs were made in the crater area and ridge of Mt Veve. This included Discodeles
malukuna and Platymantis weberi. It is anticipated that longer more extensive collections will reveal new
and cryptic species. A possible new species was recorded on the slopes of Mt Veve.
2.4 Results
This initial survey was an exploratory effort, and the results in this report are only preliminary and are
presented as such. Further extensive sampling will reveal a more comprehensive composition of vertebrates
occupying specialized niche space on Kolombangara Island.
2.4.1 Plants
The crater of Kolombangara and elfin forests above 1600m asl are floristically diverse and unique. Orchids
and epiphytes are abundant in the understory and dominate the ground cover in some areas. Ferns, palms,
figs, and heliconia’s are abundant along the river banks. Moss, lichens and epiphytes, orchids and stunted
shrub and trees dominate the high elfin forests. Effects of continuous cloud cover influences floristic
Biodiversity
11
Source: Birdlife International Endemic Bird Areas of the World
Figure 1: Restricted and threatened birds ofthe Solomon Islands.
composition of these forests.
2.4.2 Birds
At least 47 birds were recorded on Kolombangara during the course of the survey. This accounts for
about 50 percent of the total bird count for the island (including the migrants that have been sighted
on Kolombangara).The island endemic birds, Kolombangara white eyes (Zosterops murphyi) and
Kulambangra leaf-warbler (Phylloscopus amoenus) are habitat specialists, confined to montane forests.
Many Solomon endemics are also confined to some specialized forest types, for example the New
Georgia white eyes (Zosterops kulambangrae) is only found in lowland forests, and pale mountain
pigeon (Gymnophaps solomonensis) in montane forests. Kolombangara island provides some of the last
extants of lowland and essential ridge forest habitats for these birds and many other species.
Important observations were made of the crested cuckoo dove, feeding on an abundance of fruiting
Metrosideros solomonensis (Myrtaceae family) trees in the crater forests. These trees grow near the crater
field station, and along the upper banks of the upper Vila River. During the course of the survey in July,
2010, we observed at least 5 birds, feeding on the flowers, until dusk before flying to the roost in forests
higher up. The crater forest were also abundant in shrubbery and understory birds like the New Georgia
12
Figure 2: Endemic birds of the Western Province and location of Heinroth’s shearwater nesting sites.
white eye, pygmy parrots, and whistlers. Pygmy parrots were also observed from the balcony of Imbu
Rano Lodge feeding on the bark of trees growing in front of the station slope. Old tree of large girth with
important hollows were also sighted on Kolombangara, providing important nesting sites for parrots such
as rainbow lorikeets, and cardinal lorries. Old growth trees with hollows were more abundant in primary
forests, compared to secondary and garden areas.
The forests of Kolombangara are also habitat to many restricted species of birds. Thirty one (31) birds
with restricted ranges are also found within the New Georgian islands, with 10 species endemic only to
the Western Province. There are 3 species that are threatened, 2 critically endangered and 9 species that
depend on lowland forests in the Western Province. Whilst most of New Georgia, and the neighbouring
islands of Vangunu, Rendova and Vella Lavella are impacted largely by deforestation caused by logging, and
without any conservation initiatives, the landowners of Kolombangara have consented to protecting their
forests through the formation of the Kolombangara Island Biodiversity and Conservation Association.
An interesting observation was made of a resident breeding Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) on the
high slopes of Mt Veve, Kolombangara. Although previously said to be migrants, these birds may have
established breeding populations on the island (Filardi, pers comm). Heinroth’s shearwaters (Puffinus
Biodiversity
13
heinrothi) also breed on the steep inclines, fluttering in from the ocean at dusk to nest at night. The nesting
behaviour of breeding birds and population dynamics of these particular birds have not yet been studied.
They are currently list on the IUCN redlist as critically endangered. Only a few collections of these
species exist in the world. Other birds of the high slopes include, blue faced parrot finches, Kolombangara
white eyes, pygmy parrots, Meek’s lorikeets, and relatively large pale mountain pigeons.
Around the Ringgi Station, ground birds were abundant. These included the New Georgia rail, endemic
to the New Georgian islands. It’s elusive and shifty nature has resulted in a healthy population of New
Georgia rails to reside around the station, in the presence of cats, dogs, and rats. Other birds like and
purple swamp hens are also abundant here.
Table 1. Bird species and species occurence at 5 sites, Mangrove/Coastal Forests, Ringgi Station, Imbu
Rano forests, Crater forests, Ridge forests.
Species
Mangrove/
Ringgi
Imbu Rano
Crater
Ridge
Occurence
Coastal
Forests
Forests
Forests
Forests
Aceros plicatus
X
X
2
Alcedo atthis
X
1
Anas superciliosa
X
1
Aplonis cantoroides
X
X
2
Aplonis metallica
X
X
2
Cacatua ducorpsii
X
X
X
X
X
5
Centropus milo
X
X
X
3
Ceyx lepidus
X
X
2
Chalcopsitta
X
X
X
X
4
cardinalis
Chalcophaps stephani
X
X
2
Charmosyna meeki
X
X
2
Collocalia esculenta
X
X
X
X
X
5
Coracina papuensis
X
X
X
3
Ducula pistrinaria
X
X
2
Ducula rubricera
X
X
2
Eclectus roratus
X
X
X
3
Egretta sacra
X
1
Erythrura trichroa
1
Falco peregrinus
X
1
Gallicolumba beccarii
X
1
Gallirallus rovianae
X
1
Geoffroyus heteroclitus
X
X
2
Gymnophaps
X
1
solomonensis
14
Haliastur indus
Haliaeetus sanfordi
Hirundo tahitica
Hemiprocne mystacea
Macropygia
mackinlayi
Megapodius eremita
Micropsitta finschii
Micropsitta bruijnii
Monarcha richardsii
Monarcha brownii
Myzomela eichhorni
Nectarinia jugularis
Pachycephala
pectoralis
Porphyrio porphyrio
Ptilinopus superbus
Ptilinopus
solomonensis
Ptilinopus viridis
Phylloscopus amoenus
Reinwardtoena
crassirostris
Rhipidura leucophys
Trichoglossus
haematodus
Tyto alba
Zosterops
kulambangrae
Zosterops murphyi
total
X
X
X
X
–
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
4
1
1
2
1
1
3
2
2
2
2
X
X
X
3
3
4
1
2
X
X
2
1
2
3
4
X
1
3
X
1
100
2.4.3 Mammals
There were 7 species recorded during the course of the survey (table 4). Small insectivorous bats, Emballonura
nigrescens were abundant around the Ringgi station, whilst blossum bats Melonycteris fourdoulisi were
observed feeding on cherries from a cherry tree. These bats were also seen around the Ringgi station and
caught in nets placed near the Imbu Rano research station. They are distributed homogenously around
the island in lowland forests, preferring areas of flowering plants and fruiting trees. Solomon’s barebacked fruit bat (Dobsonia inermis) is also a common species of open areas, gardens, secondary forests and
primary forests, and feeding on a variety of fruits and seeds.
Biodiversity
15
Table 2. Mammal species and species occurence at 5 sites, Mangrove/Coastal Forests, Ringgi Station,
Imbu Rano forests, Crater forests, Ridge forests.
Species
Mangrove/ Ringgi
Imbu Rano
Crater
Ridge Forests Occurence
Coastal
Forests
Forests
Forests
Dobsonia inermis
X
1
Emballonura nigrescens
X
X
2
Felis catus
X
X
X
X
X
5
Melonycteris fourdoulisis
X
1
Macroglossus minimus
X
X
X
3
Pteropus rayneri
X
X
X
X
4
Phalanger orientalis
X
X
X
X
4
Rattus exulans
X
X
X
3
23
total
Many introduced species have established populations on Kolombangara. These include feral cats (Felis
catus). Cats were sighted on the trail to professors camp back in 2007 and scats were sighted along
the trail on the high ridges of Mt Veve. Cats are perhaps the most aggressive of feral mammals on
Kolombangara and may threaten many species of ground dwelling and nesting birds. An abundance of
Pacific rats (Rattus exulans) around the Imbu Rano lodge is obvious when spotlighting under the lodge at
night. Pacific rats were also found all the way to the high ridgelines of Mt Veve, as well as the high slopes
of Professors camp to the south. It was also noticed that more sightings of cats were seen around these rat
populations. It is hence, assumed that they may be the predominant provision of this invasive mammal.
The northern common cuscus, Phalanger orientalis, is a prehistoric introduction that has established
populations on Kolombangara. These have a distribution or range from the island of Western Province to
Makira Province. This slow moving marsupial of the high canopy, feeds mostly on figs and leaves. They
are not confined to primary lowland forests, but may be seen in disturbed areas as well, and dependent
on the availability of fruiting and fig trees. During the course of the survey we spotlighted an individual
near the Imbu Rano Lodge. Being the only marsupial in the Solomon Islands, in some places they are an
important source of bush protein. Northern common cuscus were mostly observed around lowland and
ridge forests, and none were spotted in high elevation forests.
2.4.4 Reptiles
Reptiles of Kolombangara are consistent with those of the other New Georgian islands. During the
survey 13 species were recorded. This is however and underestimate of the total diversity of reptiles on
Kolombangara. Reptiles are dominated by small Emoia skinks, most occupy the forest floor. There were
4 Emoia skinks recorded, Emoia nigra, E. pseudocyanura, E. schmidti, and E. cyanura, during the survey.
The majority were recorded in forests near the Imbu Rano lodge, and the crater forests. Best times for
sightings skinks were the mornings. When we walked along the trail, skinks were spotted busking in
patches of sunlight on the forest floor, or on low trees or dead logs. E. schmidti was always recorded in
closed forests, on Kolombangara and Gatokae during previous survey visits. E. nigra is a forest generalist,
16
appearing in secondary forests, garden areas, even around house yards within townships. I spotted these in
rubbish tips, feeding on organic cuttings, and peelings. E. cyanura and E. pseudocyanura are also common
around village outliers and in forest settings. They are easily recognizable with a distinct blue tail.
Solomon’s large tree gecko, Cyrtodactylus solomonensis is a forest specialist. Mostly found in closed forests,
they are often encountered in old growth secondary forests and primary forests. These are a relatively
burly gecko, and may feed on invertebrates like grasshopers, insects, bugs, even eggs of other vertebrates.
Sago gecko’s Gekko vittatus on the other hand are a smaller gecko and common, in the absence of the
common house gecko. These were seen on the wall of the laundry room of the Ringgi rest house. Nactus
multicarinatus is mostly a forest gecko. A single individual was seen when spotlighting around the Imbu
Rano Lodge forests.
Table 3. Reptile species and species occurence at 5 sites, Mangrove/Coastal Forests, Ringgi Station, Imbu
Species
Mangrove/
Ringgi
Imbu Rano
Crater
Ridge
Occurence
Coastal
Forests
Forests
Forests
Forests
Boiga irregularis
X
X
X
3
Candoia bibroni
X
X
2
Corucia zebrata
X
X
2
Cyrtodactylus
X
X
2
solomonensis
Dendrelaphis
X
1
salomonis
Emoia nigra
X
X
X
3
Emoia pseudocyanura
X
X
X
X
4
Emoia schmidti
X
X
2
Emoia cyanura
X
X
X
3
Gekko vittatus
X
1
Nactus multicarinatus
X
1
Salomonelaps par
X
X
2
Tribolonotus ponceleti
X
X
2
28
total
Solomon coral snakes (Salomonelaps par) is also a forest specialist, preferring areas of leaf litter and shrub
covering. A mildy venomous snake it can become aggressive when irritated. Most individuals have darker
black to grey posteriors with silver underbellies, although some have light brown coppery backs. A single
Solomon tree snake (Dendrelaphis salomonis) was sighted on the trail in the crater forests. Fast moving,
this snake can be very colourful, often with a light brown back with a yellowish belly and underside. I
have spotted almost entirely light green coloured specimens near the summit of Mt Rano on the southern
slopes of this high caldera peak at 1500m asl. Brown tree snakes (Boiga irregularis) were seen in secondary
forests, primary forests, even in houses and leaf huts, where there are higher densities of rats. A mildy
Biodiversity
17
venomous snake it can become aggressive when under attack.
There are some special reptiles like the prehensile tail skink (Corucia zebrata) largest of the arboreal skinks
in the world and a feeder of Epriprenum creapers. On Makira island these were common in coastal and
and lowland forest and regularly hunted. Naturally a cryptic animal, and nocturnal in nature these can
be hard to spot sometimes. However, many have been spotted in primary forests, where they are mostly
found in strangler figs. On nearby Vangunu island, some villages still opportunistically hunt these giant
lizards for bush meat, with the skin burnt over a fire and hot coals before the meat cooked is cooked.
2.4.5 Frogs
Kolombangara has very high diversity of frog species for a small oceanic island. Ten species of frogs
were collected, most being forest dependent species, some confined to distinct niche spaces within forest
habitats, and others forest generalists.
Solomon eyelash frogs Ceratobatrachus guentheri are a widespread species found mostly in forest litter
in primary forests. This species was also found in overgrown secondary forests, whilst a strangler was
seen previous under creepers on an overgrown logging road away from the forest edge. A highly variable
species in terms of colour and morphological characteristics and audile calls, they occur mostly within
lowland and ridge forests. Above 1000m asl, very few were heard calling and above 1500m asl, none were
heard calling. In it’s natural habitat, C. guentheri is a forest specialist. Further collections of this species
and morphological, accounstic and DNA analysis of this species within different islands may present
some variation amongst this species. Already colouration and morphological variation in terms of length
of snout, and tympanum, etc show’s noticeable divergence.
Endemic Weber’s ground frog Platymantis weberi, and Solomon ground frog P. solomonis, are amongst
the most common ground frogs on Kolombangara. These are also relatively common on other islands
like, Guadalcanal, Choiseul and Gatokae. Both exists in sympatry with each other, and are found in
thick grasslands under secondary forests, banana patches, stream banks and rises, and tapiyoka patches,
primary forests and in secondary forests. Despite being quite hardy and robust and found in secondary,
even degraded forests, a high percentage are found in natural open areas under primary rainforest. Being
direct developers, these frogs lay their cluthes of eggs on the forest floor, which then hatch with live
froglets. Further clearing of forests in some areas to make way for gardens and villages, have resulted
in an extirpation of this species from previously forested sites. P. weberi is the more common of the two
species, and was sited around the Imbu Rano Lodge, the crater forest and in secondary forests above Kuzi
at Lolobo. P. solomonis although widely spread in the Solomon Islands and found around lowland forests
of Kolombangara, is not as common. It is the larger of the two species with a more uniform colouration.
Largest of the tree frogs, Solomon tree frog, Platymantis guppyi, was found around Imbu Rano, crater
forests, and ridge forests. These are almost canopy specialists, that call from the canopy of tree species,
in particular forest palms and Heliconia sp plants. There is also extreme variation amongst this species in
terms of colour morphology and size. This species was heard calling along the trail up the Imbu Rano
Lodge, in the crater and surrounding forests, and in ridge forests.
18
Neckers tree frog P. neckeri and P. guppyi are both tree frogs and differ by size, with the latter more bigger.
These were quite common along the forest trail above the Imbu Rano Lodge. They occupy understory
trees, and can become the most abundant mid canopy frog species. There shows variation in colour and
size within this species with especially between islands, and different geographies. During the course of
this survey, P. neckeri calls were recorded to later compare these with the same species on other islands to
investigate if there is variation in calls as well.
The most abundant of lower forest storey tree frogs are of the genus Batrachylodes. A couple of species of
this genus were observed during the survey. These include, Batrachylodes vertebralis, and B. elegans, with a
possibility of two new species recorded on the high slopes of Mt Veve. B. vertebralis was recorded within
the crater forests. These frogs were also common in secondary forests, in fern patches in the gardens
and farm areas of Kukudu Adventist College. Frog counts for B. vertebralis were high in primary forests
compared to garden and disturbed areas. B. elegans was the most abundant tree frog. These are a small
frog, occupying the lower shrubbery, on ferns palms, saplings and undergrowth trees.
Two new species of Batrachylodes frogs were heard calling on the upper slopes of Mt Veve. One was
heard calling high up in the mossy elfin forest at least 10m above the ground. It was hard to locate, being
well hidden in the moss. Although a good recording of this species was captured. Another two specimens
of another Batrachylodes sp, was collected in the lower shrubbery by Tyrone Lavery. A recording of the
call was made and stored, for further molecular and acoustic analysis. The less explored montane forests
of Kolombangara are a new field of discovery for many extant frogs.
Table 4. Frog species and species occurence at 5 sites, Mangrove/Coastal Forests, Ringgi Station, Imbu
Species
Mangrove/
Ringgi
Imbu Rano
Crater
Ridge
Occurence
Coastal
Forests
Forests
Forests
Forests
Ceratobatrachus
X
X
X
3
guentheri
Batrachylodes sp
X
1
Batrachylodes sp
X
1
Batrachylodes vertebralis
X
X
2
Batrachylodes elegans
X
X
2
Platymantis solomonis
X
X
2
Platymantis weberi
X
X
X
3
Platymantis neckeri
X
X
X
3
Platymantis guppyi
X
X
X
3
Litoria thesaurensis
X
1
Discodeles malukuna
X
X
2
Discodeles guppyi
X
X
2
25
TOTAL
Biodiversity
19
The large ground frogs Discodeles malukuna, and D. guppyi were also recorded during the course of the
survey. D. malukuna is a common frog of lowland forests, and was encountered along footpaths, and
preferring old river stream beds. Many were recorded within the crater forests in wet substrates and on
leaf litter. These were only found in ample ground cover, by dead logs and sticks, and crevices. Smallest
of the Discodeles genus, this species can be locally common, but also rare in areas of high disturbance, or
areas of exposed red clay soils.
3. Major Threats to Biodiversity of Kolombangara’s Forests
3.1 Logging
Logging poses the greatest threat to biodiversity on Kolombangara. Large tracts of lowland forests have
been removed by logging companies, destroying major habitats for vertebrates, fruiting and seeding trees,
nesting and roosting sites, and polluting important streamways. In some areas, there has been re-entry
into previously logged areas to fell mature secondary forest stands. The aftermath is quite often disastrous
with consequential damage to remnant stands of trees, tree stems, and structure as a result of felling, skid
roads, and dragging of logs, which removes topsoil and understory vegetation and shrubs.
In some areas logging concessions have gone above the 400m asl contour. Often encroaching forests along
ridgelines, and creating skid roads at inclines above 30 degrees. The consequences are extreme damage to
soil and loss of water rention within the soul lattice, major sedimentation runoffs during rain storms into
streams and rivers, with suspended solids, top soils, debris, and leaf litter polluting water ways. This often
a disaster for many ground dwelling species of animals, particularly frogs and ground dwelling birds.
3.2 Gardening & agriculture
Clearing of forests to make way for gardens and other agricultural pursuits has also resulted in large areas
of forest being cleared. Rotation of garden areas, in some instances have allowed forests to regenerate, and
some areas, trees have reached mature size, and the othergrowth supporting a remarkable array of species
re-colonizing these new forests.
3.3 Plantations
Most of the lowlands around Kolombangara have been cleared and the areas converted to plantation.
Introduced trees planted include teak, eucalyptus, and malina trees. Plantations are sometimes buffered
by primary and overgrown secondary forests, especially along stream sections. This allows for corridor
habitats for vertebrates and other wildlife.
20
4. Discussion
The forests of Kolombangara are remarkably diverse and intact, notably the crater forests beginning at the
base valley below the Imbu Rano Lodge, and bearing northwards into the crater centre. Upland montane
forests are spectacular, and comprise some of the last stands of unscathed montane forests in the insular
South Pacific. Elfin forests here are stunted, ridgelines are exposed with reeds, sedge or grass growing
here. These are habitats to a few endemic species,
Diversity of birds was high, with 47 species observed during the course of the surveys. This accounted
for almost 50 percent of the birds recorded for Kolombangara. Included are the Kolombangara endemics
and others that are restricted to a few islands in the Solomon Islands. Many of these species are found in
primary forests, with a few generalists.
Mammals of Kolombangara are analogous to the other New Georgian islands, which included fruit
bats, and tube nose bats. Insect bats were observed around the Ringgi station at dusk hunting for insects,
particularly around street lights and outside residential lawns. There was a total of 8 species including 2
introducted rat species and two prehistoric introductions.
Reptile faunas of Kolombangara are dominated by the Emoia skinks, including Emoia nigra, E. schidti,
E. cyanura, and E. pseudocyanura. Giant skinks are cryptic, occupying mostly strangler figs and large trees
with Epiprenum creepers. A Solomon tree snake was observed inside the crater, whilst a python was
spotted on the trail above Imbu Rano Lodge. Little is know of the ecology of main reptiles.
Due to the extreme habitat variation on Kolombangara, the frog fauna is also rich and extremely diverse.
Lowlands are dominated by Platymantis sp, and with riverine habitats along the crater floor occupied by
Discodeles water frogs. Most abundant are the Platymantis and Batrachylodes species, the latter found
on shrubs and low trees, and palms. Batrachylodes then dominate the high elevation forests, replacing
Platymantis species. There are still many species new to science, and molecular and acoustic data may
reveal cryptic species.
Conservation of habitats is a priority on Kolombangara. Particularly important will be the conservation
of the 400m asl contour as a protected area. As habitats in the lowlands are fast disappearing, except
for pockets of corridors that extend to the sea, most have been altered. Whilst biodiversity values are
high on Kolombangara, still many species are unknow, in particular the frogs and reptiles of montane
environments.
5. Conclusion
This survey showed remarkable biodiversity values in the forested crater and montane ecosystems on
Kolombangara. Some species are still unknown to science, particular frogs, whilst the ecology of many
others are poorly known. Floral diversity of Kolombangara is exceptional, and with elevation, habitats are
compressed, with different elevations showing distinct floral characteristics. Threats to lowlands however
are great, with alot of forest around coastal and lowlands being cleared for gardens or converted to
Biodiversity
21
plantations. With forest management plans, biodiversity may continue to thrive in ridge forests and hill
forests, especially above the 400m als contour.
6. Recommendations
Based on the field assessments and ongoing conservation work on the ground the following
recommendations are suggested;
1. Establishment of permanent biodiversity transect plots at different locations both within the crater area
and at different elevations on the slopes of Mt Veve or Mt Tapalamengutu.
2. A comprehensive survey of the flora and fauna at different sites around Kolombangara and in different
habitat types, to compare diversity across a set of landscape types.
3. Both boundary and biodiversity mapping of conservation areas above the 400m asl contour.
4. An assessment of invasive species and potential threats to the biodiversity of the protected area.
Especially focusing on invasive cane toads, rats and feral cats.
5. Empowering and training of local rangers in biodiversity survey techniques, with the use of GPS unit
and recording of way point data, collection and storage of specimens, abundance surveys, etc.
22
Birds
Kolombangara supports more than a 100 birds, with many restricted ranged species, vulnerable species,
endemics of the New Georgian islands, and two island endemics. This includes forest and habitat
specialists, for example, montane specialists like Zosterops murphyi, Erythrura trichroa, or Charmosyna
meeki, which are only found in high elevation forests. This survey accounted for 47 species.
Zosterops kulambangrae
Zosterops murphyi
Myzomela eichorni
Charmosyna meeki
Charmosyna meeki in flight
Erythrura trichroa
Monarcha browni
Monarcha richardsii
Ceyx lepidus
Haliaeetus sandfordi
Centropus milo (Photo: Phil
Bender)
Biodiversity
23
Mammals
Dominated by bats, the mammals of Kolombangara, also include prehistoric introductions like the
marsupial Phalanger orientalis, some rats, and pigs. There are at least 10 species of native mammals, the
most abundant being Macroglossus minimus. Largest bats are Solomons fruit bat, Pteropus rayneri, whilst
the small insect bats Emballonura are also common near fruiting cherry trees.
Rousettus amplexicaudatus
Phalanger orientalis
Nyctimene bougainville
Nyctimene bougainville
Pteropus rayneri
Dobsonia enermis
Rousettus amplexicaudatus
Pteropus admiraltum
24
Reptiles
Emoia skinks dominate the reptile fauna. These are abundant in both open and secondary forests as well
as primary forests. The endemic forest gekko Cyrtodactylus solomonensis is also common in old regrown
secondary forests and primary forests. At least 5 snake species are found here, along with the forest
specialists crocodile skinks.
Candoia bibroni
Cytodactylus solomonensis
Gecko vittatus
Frogs
Kolombangara frogs make up some of the most abundant of terrestrial and mid canopy story vertebrates.
Least known of the vertebrates, new species are continually being discovered. On this survey as with
previous ones, new species were found in high elevation forests. As a result of diverse habitats and niche
space, many species have become habitat specialists, occupying important spaces.
Batrachylodes sp
Batrachylodes sp
Platymantis weberi
Discodeles malukuna
Ceratobatrachus guentheri
Biodiversity
25
Habitats
There is a range of habitats that exist on Kolombangara Island. This includes, coastal forests, lowland, ridge
or hill forests, cloud or montane forests, and plantations. Each habitat is home to different communities
of species. Many species are very dependent on the type and quality of habitats, and very few generalists
are found in plantations.
High ridge forests
High ridge forests
Mangrove forest
Hill forests at 400m contour
Hill forest
Corridor from 400m to 1.700m
asl
26
Plants
Kolombangara island is floristically diverse, with at least 100 or more orchid species. Epiphytes, creepers,
ferns, palms and many other plants dominated the forest floor. Birds nest epiphytes are also abundant in
lowland and ridge forests. There are many species that are cryptic and found in montane environments,
some perhaps unknown to science still.
Calanthe ventilabrum
Dendrobium mohlianum
Ground orchid
Phreatia sp
Ground orchid
Macodes sp
Calanthe sp
Ground orchid
Calanthe sp
Biodiversity
27
PLANT CHECKLIST FOR KIBCA BIODIVERSITY SURVEY of VILA RIVER
CATCHMENT, RIVER MOUTH AND MANGROVE AREA, KOLOMBANGARA ISLAND
(20 - 23/7/2010)
Note:
The following plants were recorded from the surroundings of Imbu Rano Lodge and the upper catchment
of Villa river to the lower areas of the crater beyond the camping site (leaf hut). It was dominated by
typical Lowland and Uphill forest types along the ridges and Riverine forest along the river and streams.
An overlap of Uphill forest and montane forest was observed as indicated by the moss-covered tree stems
in the areas as altitudinal zonation increases.
(Scientific Names (Genus and Species):
1.
Areca guppyana
2.
Areca macrocalyx
3.
Alpinia oceanica
4.
Astronidium salomonense
5.
Campnosperma brevipetiolata
6.
Cyathea vittata
7.
Ficus wassa
8.
Gulubia macrospadix
9.
Heterospathe minor
10.
Neonauclea orientalis
11.
Planchonella firma
12.
Elatostema salomonense
13.
Elatostema reticulatum
14.
Alpinia purpurata
15.
Hornstedtia lycostoma
16.
Ficus longifolia
17.
Saurauia purgans
18.
Freycinetia bicolor
19.
Freycinetia decipiens
20.
Freycinetia pectinata
21.
Freycinetia solomonensis
22.
Freycinetia whitmorei
23.
Leea indica
24.
Dillenia salomonensis
25.
Pangium edule
26.
Semecarpus forstenii
27.
Dennstaedtia samoensis
28.
Gleichenia linearis
29.
Davalia solida
30.
Asplenium nidus
31.
Calamus hollrungii
32.
Ficus variegata
33.
Macaranga tanarius
34.
Dendrobium sp.1
28
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.
63.
64.
65.
66.
67.
68.
69.
Dendrobium sp.2
Dendrobium sp.3
Bulbophyllum sp.1
Bulbophyllum sp.2
Selaginella rechingerii
Nephrolepis bisserata
Syzygium sp.
Caryota rumphiana
Homalomena alba
Homalomena cordata
Ficus virgata
Ficus benjamina
Melastoma novo-georgiae
Wedelia sp.
Calophyllum peekellii
Macodes sp.
Terminalia brassii
Medinilla kajewskii
Medinilla sessilis
Guillainia rechingeri
Plerandra solomonensis
Pandanus sp.1
Pandanus sp.2
Pometia pinnata
Terminalia calamansanai
Fagraea racemosa
Ptychosperma salomonense
Physokentia salomonense
Pterocarpus indicus
Piper wichmanii
Musa maclayi
Syzygium sp.1
Syzygium sp.2
Syzygium sp.3
Drymophloeus insolita
70.
71.
72.
73.
74.
75.
76.
77.
78.
79.
80.
81.
82.
83.
84.
85.
86.
87.
88.
89.
90.
91.
92.
93.
94.
95.
96.
97. 98. 99. 100.
101.
102. 103. 104. 105. 106. 107. 108. 109. 110. 111. 112. 113. 114. 115. 116. Colocasia sp.
Cominsia indica
Cyrtosperma johnstonii
Heliconia solomonensis
Dendrocnide inerme
Calophyllum paludosum
Boerlagiodendrone novo-guineensis
Kopsia flavida
Melicope grandifolia
Vitex cofassus
Scindapsus altissimus
Canarium salomonense
Begonia sp.1
Begonia sp.2
Endospermum medullosum
Metroxylon solomonense
Tapeinochilus solomonensis
Flagellaria gigantea
Cerbera manghas
Microsorium sp.
Pteris sp.
Commelina diffusa
Elaeocarpus floridanus
Mussaenda cylindrocarpa
Ficus septica
Pipturus argentus
Trema orientalis
Boerlagiodendron reburrum
Boerlagiodendron tetrandrum
Commersonia bartramia
Trichospermum psilocladum
Uncaria appendiculata
Wedelia biflora
Cyathocalyx petiolatus
Commelina nudiflora
Cordyline terminalis
Calanthe sp.
Rhus taitensis
Piper aduncum
Spathoglottis plicata
Sterculia shillinglawii
Gmelina moluccana
Dysoxylum excelsum
Alstonia scholaris
Joinvillea plicata
Teysmanniodendron ahernianum
Macaranga dioica
117. 118. 119. 120. 121. 122. 123. 124. 125. 126. Weinmannia sp.
Garcinia sessilis
Psychotria salomonensis
Schizostachyum tessellatum
Heterospathe sp.
Alyxia sp.
Smilax sp.
Paratocarpus venenosa
Litsea perglabra
Lycopodium phlegmarioides
NOTE:
The following is a list of Plants recorded within
the Coastal forest and Mangrove habitats of the
Villa river mouth:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
Calophyllum inophyllum
Inocarpus fagifer
Pandanus tectorius
Pandanus sp.
Bruguiera gymnorrihiza
Rhizophora apiculata
Rhizophora stylosa
Casuarina equisetifolia
Sonneratia alba
Hibiscus tiliaceus
Derris trifolia
Dolichandrone spathacea
Desmodium umbellatum
Nypha fruticans
Acrostichum aureum
Cordia subcordata
Terminali catappa
Premna corymbosa
Metroxylon solomonense
Pterocarpus indicus
Terminalia brassii
Triumfetta pilosa
Macaranga tanarius
Barringtonia racemosa
Alpinia oceanic
Timonius timon
Morinda citrifolia
Fagaraea racemosa
Excoecaria agallocha
Biodiversity
29
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
A Checklist of Plants recorded in the Montane and 41.
Uphill Ridge Forests of Kolombangara (KIBCA 42.
Biodiversity Survey of the Kolombangara Island 43.
44.
Crater Area) 12 - 14 October, 2010
45.
46.
(Scientific Names (Genus and Species):
47.
1.
Syzygium papuasicum (tree)
48.
2.
Syzygium walker (tree)
49.
3.
Syzygium myriadenum (tree)
50.
4.
Metrosideros collina (tree)
51.
5.
Metrosideros eugenioides (tree)
52.
6.
Metrosideros parviflora (tree)
53.
7.
Metrosideros polymorphia (tree)
54.
8.
Metrosideros salomonensis (tree)
55.
9.
Macaranga dioica (tree)
56.
10.
Nastus sp? (climbing bamboo)
57.
11.
Nastus obtusus (bamboo)
12.Schizostachyum stenocladum (climbing bam58.
59.
boo)
60.
13.
Calanthe triplicata (orchid)
14.
Calanthe ventilabrum (orchid)
61.
62.
15.
Gulubia macrospadix (palm)
16.
Gleichenia linearis (fern)
63.
64.
17.
Gleichenia vulcanica (fern)
65.
18.
Gleichenia brassii (fern)
19.
Pandanus sp? (pandanus)
66.
67.
20.
Freycinetia humilis (climbing pandanus)
21.
Freycinetia pectinata (climbing pandanus)
68.
22.
Freycinetia solomonensis (climbing pandanus)
23.
Freycinetia tessellatum (climbing pandanus)
24.
Freycinetia whitmorei (climbing pandanus)
25.
Lycopodium carinatum (fern ally)
Lycopodium cernuum (fern ally)
Lycopodium phlegmarioides (fern ally)
Lycopodium squarrosum (moss)
Lycopodium spp? (mosses)
Trichomanes spp? (ferns)
Cyathea solomonensis (tree fern)
Cyathea vittata (tree fern)
Cyathea sp? (tree fern)
Schefflera actinophylla (epiphytic tree)
Schefflera waterhousei (epiphytic tree)
Euodia triphylla (tree/shrub)
Buchanania solomonensis (tree/shrub)
Psychotria kajewskii (tree/shrub)
Psychotria sarcodes (tree/shrub)
Calophyllum sp? (tree)
Podocarpus sp? (tree/shrub)
Timonius sp? (tree/shrub)
Rubus brassii (shrub)
Rubus rosifolius (shrub)
Rhodamnia cinerea (tree/shrub)
Rhodamnia salomonensis (tree/shrub)
Rhodamnia sp? (shrub)
Rhododendron pulchrum (shrub)
Rhododendron whitmorei (shrub)
Rhododendron sp? (shrub)
Rhodomyrtus salomonensis (tree/shrub)
Rhodomyrtus sepicana (tree/shrub)
Begonia spp? (epiphytic shrub/climber)
Cucurbita sp? (pumpkim creeper)
Alpinia sp? (ginger/herb)
Alyxia sp? (milky climber)
Geophila sp? (herb)
Garcinia spp? (tree/shrub)
Asplenium spp? (fern)
Cyrtandra spp? (shrub)
Ophioglossum reticulatum (fern ally)
Microsorium sp? (herb)
Cordyline terminalis (herb)
Dianella sp? (herb)
Cyperus spp?
Colocasia sp?
Peperomia spp?
Elatostema spp?
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
Acanthus ilicifolius
Wedelia biflora
Lumnitzera littorea
Scaevola taccada
Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea
Ceriops tagal
Heritiera littoralis
Xylocarpus granatum
Ipomoea pes-caprae
Ficus wassa
Ficus septica
Trema orientalis
Guettarda speciosa
30
vertebrate checklist for BIODIVERSITY SURVEY of VILA RIVER
CATCHMENT, RIVER MOUTH AND MANGROVE AREA, KOLOMBANGARA ISLAND
(20 - 23/7/2010)
Note:
The following vertebrates were recorded from the surroundings of Imbu Rano Lodge and the upper
catchment of Villa river to the lower areas of the crater beyond the camping site (leaf hut). Vertebrates
were dominated by frogs, reptiles, birds and mammals. Frogs and reptiles were abundant mostly in the
understorey and forest floor. Whilst a few ground birds were observed along the access road to Imbu
Rano and around Ringgi Station. Some species were heard calling along in understorey along the forest
trails. Forest birds, and bats were abundant mostly in open areas, and within the canopy line. A single
marsupial, Phalanger orientalis was observed around the Imbu Rano Lodge.
Scientific Names (Genus and Species):
Frogs
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
Batrachylodes elegans
Batrachylodes sp (Montane forest)
Batrachylodes sp (Montane forest)
Discodeles guppyi
Discodeles malukuna
Platymantis weberi
Platymantis solomonis
Platymantis neckeri
Platymantis guppyi
Litoria thesaurensis
Reptiles
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Boiga irregularis
Candoia bibroni
Corucia zebrata
Cyrtodactylus solomonensis
Dendrelaphis salomonis
Emoia nigra
Emoia pseudocyanura
Emoia schmidti
Emoia cyanura
Gekko vittatus
Nactus multicarinatus
12.
13.
Salomonelaps par
Birds
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
Aceros plicatus
Alcedo atthis
Anas superciliosa
Aplonis cantoroides
Aplonis metallica
Cacatua ducorpsii
Centropus milo
Ceyx lepidus
Chalcopsitta cardinalis
Chalcophaps stephani
Charmosyna meeki
Collocalia esculenta
Coracina papuensis
Ducula pistrinaria
Ducula rubricera
Eclectus roratus
Egretta sacra
Erythrura trichroa
Falco peregrinus
Gallicolumba beccarii
Geoffroyus heteroclitus
Gymnophaps solomonensis
Haliastur indus
Haliaeetus sanfordi
Hirundo tahitica
Biodiversity
31
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
Hemiprocne mystacea
Macropygia mackinlayi
Megapodius eremita
Micropsitta finschii
Micropsitta bruijnii
Monarcha richardsii
Monarcha browni
Myzomela eichhorni
Nectarinia jugularis
Pachycephala pectoralis
Porphyrio porphyrio
Ptilinopus superbus
Ptilinopus solomonensis
Ptilinopus viridis
Reinwardtoena crassirostris
Rhipidura leucophrys
Trichoglossus haematodus
Tyto alba
Zosterops kulambangrae
Zosterops murphyi
Mammals
1. Emballonura sp
2.
Felis catus (introduced)
3.
Sus scrofa (prehistoric introduction)
4.
Melonycteris fourdoulisis
5.
6.
Pteropus rayneri
7.
Phalanger orientalis (prehistoric introduction)
8.
Rattus exulans (prehistoric introduction)
32
Table of IUCN Red-listed Species Known to Occur on Kolombangara Island
IUCN status of threatened, endangered and vulnerable birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians recorded
on Kolombangara, Solomon Islands (listed in alpha order of scientific names). EN=endangered, NT=nearthreatened, VU=vulnerable, DD=data deficient, CR=critically endangered, LR/nt=lower risk (near
threatened). Note that this list is conservative given the lack of faunal work in the region. For example,
Pteralopex bats and several poorly known birds have just recently been encountered on Kolombangara
and have thus not yet been evaluated by global threat criteria.
Scientific Name
Birds
Aplonis brunneicapillus
Charmosyna margarethae
Charmosyna meeki
Collocalia orientalis
Columba pallidiceps
Coracina holopolia
Ducula brenchleyi
Common Name
IUCN Status
EN
NT
NT
DD
EN
NT
VU
Esacus magnirostris
Haliaeetus sanfordi
Monarcha browni
Numenius tahitiensis
Pseudobulweria becki*
Puffinus heinrothi
Reinwardtoena crassirostris
Rhipidura cockerelli
WHITE-EYED STARLING
duches lorikeet
MEEK’S LORIKEET
MAYR’S SWIFTLET
YELLOW-LEGGED PIGEON
SOLOMON CUCKOO-SHRIKE
CHESTNUT-BELLIED IMPERIAL-PIGEON
BEACH THICK-KNEE
ROVIANA RAIL
SANFORD’S FISH-EAGLE
KOLOMBANGARA MONARCH
BRISTLE-THIGHED CURLEW
KULAMBANGRA WARBLER
BECK’S PETREL
HEINROTH’S SHEARWATER
CRESTED CUCKOO-DOVE
COCKERELL’S FANTAIL
Mammals
Emballonura raffrayana
Hipposideros dinops
Melonycteris fardoulisi
RAFFRAY’S SHEATH-TAILED BAT
FIERCE ROUNDLEAF BAT
SOLOMONS BLOSSOM-BAT
LR/nt
LR/nt
VU
Reptiles and Amphibians
Discodeles malukuna
Ranidae
Scincidae
DD
DD
NT
NT
VU
NT
VU
VU
CR
VU
NT
NT
* Breeding in these two pelagic seabirds is very poorly known – nesting Heinroth’s Shearwaters have never been
found - but Kolombangara has been suggested as a probable breeding site since at least the 1920s. One exciting
prospect of more persistent ornithological exploration of the island is the potential to document breeding of one or
both of these species within the abundant habitat along the steep slopes of the caldera rim.
Biodiversity
33
Kolombangara
Island Biodiversity
& Conservation
Association

Pikacha, P. and M. Sirikolo - Ecological Solutions, Solomon Islands

Transcription

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