Impact of Anthropogenic Activities on Herbivorous Mammal Diversity in the Douala-Edéa National Park, Littoral Region, Cameroon

The Douala-Edéa National Park (DENP), located in the Littoral Region, serves as a critical refuge for Cameroonian wildlife, encompassing a mosaic of mangroves, wetlands, and dense forests. However, its proximity to the industrial hubs of Douala and Edéa exposes this ecosystem to intense human pressure, jeopardizing habitat integrity and the survival of iconic herbivorous species. This study aims to evaluate the influence of human activities on the diversity, abundance, and spatial distribution of herbivorous mammals within the park. Data collection utilized QGIS and Google Earth to define 1 km recce-transects placed within 2 km grids on a pre-established map. Recces-transect coordinates were transferred to a Garmin 64 GPS for field tracking to record presence indices. Data analysis involved coding GPS records and importing them into QGIS for spatial distribution mapping. The correlation between anthropogenic pressure and the encountered rate (ER) was calculated. The inventories revealed a significant presence of megafauna, dominated by the African Forest Elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis), with high encountered rate. The findings equally indicate that poaching is the most destructive activity. A depletion of herbivores species were observed in areas with high human pressure. Species tend to concentrate in the heart of the study area where accessibility is limited, creating an imbalance in space utilization. Without an effective buffer zone and strict poaching regulations, the DENP risks becoming an empty forest, where flora remains but iconic fauna has vanished. This work underscores the urgent need for a balance between regional development and conservation to prevent the local extinction of herbivores, which are essential links in forest regeneration. To mitigate these impacts, the study suggests: Strengthening surveillance by increasing eco-guard patrols. Engaging local populations through community conservation programs and the development of alternative income-generating activities. Implementing environmental education to raise awareness of the park’s ecosystem value beyond bushmeat resources.

Keywords: Abundance Indices, Anthropogenic Activities, Conservation, Herbivorous Mammals, Wildlife Diversity.