Development of Malaysian Mammal Online Database

Malaysia is one of 17 mega diverse countries in the world. Despite this fact, there is still no online standalone database that focuses on Malaysian mammals.  Creation of a mammalian database would allow researchers and conservationists to utilize the database for research, policy making and to answer broad scale of biodiversity questions.  Human development have contribute to the depleting of mammal population and species extinction rate is faster than the effort of cataloguing them. The aim of this study is to 1) identify online database features and the type of data required for mammal database, 2) collect and populate database from existing mammal data to assist the said database and 3) to test the acceptance of the database by user of this study. The secondary data from existing database was collected to determine the required features needed in the database. The database adhere to TDWG standard that facilitates exchange of biological information. Rapid Prototype Model was utilized as development method and Omeka Classic was used as platform of Content Management System. The mammal data was collected online and populate into the database. The acceptance testing in form of questionnaire were distributed to verify whether the database is function properly and meet the requirement of the study. We present MYMODS, a comprehensive mammal database with 361 mammal species in Malaysia deposited in the database. The development of this database will enable the researcher and conservationist to seek and identify mammal information based on species’ scientific name, description and IUCN Red List. We believe that MYMODS will contribute to the digital knowledge that provide tools for mammal research and contributes in management of biodiversity and conservation in Malaysia. MYMODS is available at https://cercom.uthm.edu.my/mymods

Vertebrates of Resak (Tambahan) Forest Reserve and Its Adjacent Area, Pahang

Southeast Pahang Peat Swamp Forest (SEPPSF) covers four forest reserves (FRs) namely Pekan FR, Nenasi FR, Kedondong FR and Resak FR. Previously, 204 species of birds, 56 species of mammals, and 47 species of herpetofauna have been recorded at SEPPSF. Recently, a rapid assessment using binoculars was carried out for two days from 18-19 May 2023 covering Resak (Tambahan) FR and its adjacent areas including oil palm plantations and Rompin town. A total of 52 species of birds from 25 families and one species of reptile were recorded. Of these, 36 species are classified as Totally Protected while eight species are Protected species according to Wildlife Conservation Act 2010. There are four Vulnerable (VU) species that were recorded namely Black Hornbill, Lesser Adjutant, Large Green-Pigeon, and Javan Myna. This result indicates a “snapshot” of vertebrates of the forest complex due to the short duration of the survey. Therefore, more intensive survey is needed to update the dynamics of the wildlife community in this area

Herpetofauna surveys at CFS ecological corridor (J-PL2: Panti Forest Reserve-Ulu Sedili Forest Reserve), Johor, Malaysia

Herpetological surveys were conducted at Panti Forest Reserve and Ulu Sedili Forest Reserve of Johor in March and April 2019. These forest reserves are identified as one of the designated primary linkages under the Central Forest Spine (CFS) Masterplan, named as J-PL2 or previously known as CFSII PL3. The objective of the study is to document updated list of herpetofauna species recorded at the J-PL2. During this study, onehectare study plot was established at Panti Forest Reserve and Ulu Sedili Forest Reserve, respectively. Each study plot was equipped with 10 transect lines. A total of 25 pitfall traps were deployed at each study plot. These traps were set for five consecutive nights per session, with a total of two sampling sessions per site. In addition, active search was also conducted for a minimum of two hours at each site during every sampling session. As a result, a total of 30 individuals comprising of 13 species of herpetofauna were recorded at J-PL2. Panti Forest Reserve harbour highest number of herpetofauna with nine species (five families) followed by Ulu Sedili Forest Reserve with six species (five families). Amphibians was the most species captured in Panti Forest Reserve with six species, whilst the number of species recorded for both amphibians and reptiles at Ulu Sedili was similar with three species. Furthermore, five species of the herpetofauna representing by one amphibian and four reptiles are new additional recorded herpetofauna species when compared to a compilation of previously listed species at both forest reserves. Pelobatrachus nasutus, Draco haematopogon and Naja sumatrana are among the latest species recorded through this study. Referring to this information, hopefully the significance of J-PL2 as an important shelter for various herpetofauna species could be reflected and proper conservation actions must be undertaken to protect and sustain their population

Species Composition of Rodents at Padang Chong Forest Reserve, Perak

There are at least four families of rodents identified in Peninsular Malaysia namely Muridae, Sciuridae, Hystricidae, and Rhyzomidae. Although rodents are widespread throughout Peninsular Malaysia, information on rodents at Padang Chong Forest Reserve (PCFR) is scarce. Therefore, the main objective of this study is to identify and document the species composition of rodents at PCFR. Samplings were carried out at two plots along the gradient from the border of PCFR namely Plot 1 (500m) and Plot 2 (1km). The size of the respective plot is 1ha with 10 transect lines (AJ), 100m in length separately. These plots were sampled for five times from June to November 2022. Based on this study, a total of 65 individuals from nine species of rodent were documented. These nine species were identified from two families namely, Muridae (5 spp) and Sciuridae (4 spp). Of these, Leopoldamys sabanus was recorded as the highest captured species (25 individuals), followed by Maxomys whiteheadi (19 individuals) and Callosciurus notatus (7 individuals). There is no significant difference in terms of species composition between these plots, Plot 1 (n=33) and Plot 2 (n=32), which further supported by t-test value result (t-test=0.928; p(value)> 0.05). However, there is a single representative of Sundamys muelleri captured in Plot 1 which prefers the riverine area (around 10m). Callosciurus notatus were captured most in Plot 2 (6 individuals) compared to Plot 1 (1 individual). Certain areas nearby to Plot 2 were opened for agricultural purposes which explained the existence of this species at Plot 2. From this information, it is hoped that further actions can be taken to conserve the area to ensure the small mammal communities are preserved

Distribution of Pycnonotidae at Padang Chong Forest Reserve, Perak

There is not much information on avifauna especially Pycnonotidae at Padang Chong Forest Reserve (PCFR). Therefore, the main objective of this study is to identify and document species from Pycnonotidae family at PCFR. A total of five sampling sessions were carried out from June to November 2022. Surveys were carried out at two plots along the gradient from the border of PCFR namely Plot 1 (500 m) and Plot 2 (1 km) each plot consist of transect line 100 m x 100 m (1 ha). Ten mist nets were deployed at each plot for five consecutive days per sampling session. Binoculars and cameras were aided for observation purposes. As a result, a total of 25 individuals from 9 species were recorded where 10 individuals (Plot 1) and 15 individuals (Plot 2) respectively. Species, Grey-bellied Bulbul were mostly recorded (8 individuals), followed by Spectacled Bulbul and Hairy-backed Bulbul (5 individuals), Grey-cheeked Bulbul (2 individuals), and Buff-vented Bulbul, Stripe-throated Bulbul, Cream-vented Bulbul, Black-headed Bulbul, and Olive-winged Bulbul are recorded one individual. Based on the species accumulative curve, the species composition is not reaching the plateau which indicates more sampling sessions are needed for Pycnonotidae at PCFR. In Plot 1, two bulbul species were recorded namely Spectacled Bulbul (LC) and the Grey-cheeked Bulbul (VU). In Plot 2 recorded the presence of Buff-vented Bulbul (NT), Stripe-throated Bulbul (LC), Cream-vented Bulbul (LC), and Hairy-backed Bulbul (LC). PCFR plays its role in providing a habitat for avifauna and resources to survive. Therefore, conservation efforts must be taken immediately to ensure this reserve is preserved and conserved

Small vertebrates in CFS ecological corridor (D-PL1: Lojing - Sungai Brok - Sungai Betis Forest Reserves) Kelantan

Small vertebrate surveys were carried out in the Sungai Brok and Sungai Betis Forest Reserves. The Central Forest Spine (CFS) initiative has recognised these forest reserves as part of Kelantan's important ecological corridors, known as D-PL1. The surveys were conducted from July to September 2019. This study aims to identify and update the checklist of small vertebrates in the selected forest reserves. One hectare plot was established in each forest reserve for this study. Traps were used to capture and document these vertebrates, including 100 collapsible cage traps, three harp traps, 10 mist nets, and 25 pitfall traps deployed at each sampling site. In addition, the surveys also carried out active searches and direct observations. Overall, this study recorded 83 species from 38 families of small vertebrates. With the total, small mammals comprise of 13 spp. from six families, birds (53 spp. from 24 families), and herpetofauna (17 spp. from eight families) were recorded during this study. Ten small mammal species are recorded as additional species for D-PL1. Birds and herpetofauna recorded 38 and eight additional species to the existing checklist of D-PL1, respectively. Based on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (Version 3.1), this study recorded three threatened species namely Great Argus (Argusianus argus), Great Slaty Woodpecker (Mulleripicus pulverulentus), and Grey-cheeked Bulbul (Alophoixus tephrogenys) in D-PL1. This information is likely to support stakeholders in formulating a management strategy for the forest mosaics in the corridor, which will continue to serve as an essential habitat for small vertebrates

Observations on Vertebrates at Padang Chong Forest Reserve, Perak

Observations on wildlife especially on arboreal and nocturnal species can generate important information especially in a forest reserve. Therefore, observations using binoculars (daytime) and torchlight (night) at Padang Chong Forest Reserve (PCFR) were carried out during five sessions in the months of June until November 2022. These activities were carried out at two sites namely P1 (500m from the forest edge) and P2 (500m up to 1000m from the forest edge). As a result, 65 species from 41 families were recorded. Of these, avifauna recorded 42 species from 23 families, mammals (nine species, seven families), amphibians (five species, five families), and reptiles (nine species, six families). Of these, there are 11 species had been classified as threatened species, where mammals with six threatened species followed by avifauna with four threatened species and herpetofauna with single threatened species. This study also shows that forest interior harbor the higher species richness of vertebrates with 91% (of the total species recorded) compare to forest edge that only consist of 11% (of the total species recorded) This information does not represent the whole wildlife community in PCFR. However, with this information, further monitoring can be carried out to better understand the wildlife communities in PCFR. Therefore, actions and strategies can be formulated to conserve this habitat for wildlife and future generations

Vertebrates of Resak (Tambahan) Forest Reserve and Its Adjacent Area, Pahang

Southeast Pahang Peat Swamp Forest (SEPPSF) covers four forest reserves (FRs) namely Pekan FR, Nenasi FR, Kedondong FR and Resak FR. Previously, 204 species of birds, 56 species of mammals, and 47 species of herpetofauna have been recorded at SEPPSF. Recently, a rapid assessment using binoculars was carried out for two days from 18-19 May 2023 covering Resak (Tambahan) FR and its adjacent areas including oil palm plantations and Rompin town. A total of 52 species of birds from 25 families and one species of reptile were recorded. Of these, 36 species are classified as Totally Protected while eight species are Protected species according to Wildlife Conservation Act 2010. There are four Vulnerable (VU) species that were recorded namely Black Hornbill, Lesser Adjutant, Large Green-Pigeon, and Javan Myna. This result indicates a “snapshot” of vertebrates of the forest complex due to the short duration of the survey. Therefore, more intensive survey is needed to update the dynamics of the wildlife community in this area

Herpetofauna surveys at CFS ecological corridor (J-PL2: Panti Forest Reserve-Ulu Sedili Forest Reserve), Johor, Malaysia

Herpetological surveys were conducted at Panti Forest Reserve and Ulu Sedili Forest Reserve of Johor in March and April 2019. These forest reserves are identified as one of the designated primary linkages under the Central Forest Spine (CFS) Masterplan, named as J-PL2 or previously known as CFSII PL3. The objective of the study is to document updated list of herpetofauna species recorded at the J-PL2. During this study, onehectare study plot was established at Panti Forest Reserve and Ulu Sedili Forest Reserve, respectively. Each study plot was equipped with 10 transect lines. A total of 25 pitfall traps were deployed at each study plot. These traps were set for five consecutive nights per session, with a total of two sampling sessions per site. In addition, active search was also conducted for a minimum of two hours at each site during every sampling session. As a result, a total of 30 individuals comprising of 13 species of herpetofauna were recorded at J-PL2. Panti Forest Reserve harbour highest number of herpetofauna with nine species (five families) followed by Ulu Sedili Forest Reserve with six species (five families). Amphibians was the most species captured in Panti Forest Reserve with six species, whilst the number of species recorded for both amphibians and reptiles at Ulu Sedili was similar with three species. Furthermore, five species of the herpetofauna representing by one amphibian and four reptiles are new additional recorded herpetofauna species when compared to a compilation of previously listed species at both forest reserves. Pelobatrachus nasutus, Draco haematopogon and Naja sumatrana are among the latest species recorded through this study. Referring to this information, hopefully the significance of J-PL2 as an important shelter for various herpetofauna species could be reflected and proper conservation actions must be undertaken to protect and sustain their population

Distribution of Pycnonotidae at Padang Chong Forest Reserve, Perak

There is not much information on avifauna especially Pycnonotidae at Padang Chong Forest Reserve (PCFR). Therefore, the main objective of this study is to identify and document species from Pycnonotidae family at PCFR. A total of five sampling sessions were carried out from June to November 2022. Surveys were carried out at two plots along the gradient from the border of PCFR namely Plot 1 (500 m) and Plot 2 (1 km) each plot consist of transect line 100 m x 100 m (1 ha). Ten mist nets were deployed at each plot for five consecutive days per sampling session. Binoculars and cameras were aided for observation purposes. As a result, a total of 25 individuals from 9 species were recorded where 10 individuals (Plot 1) and 15 individuals (Plot 2) respectively. Species, Grey-bellied Bulbul were mostly recorded (8 individuals), followed by Spectacled Bulbul and Hairy-backed Bulbul (5 individuals), Grey-cheeked Bulbul (2 individuals), and Buff-vented Bulbul, Stripe-throated Bulbul, Cream-vented Bulbul, Black-headed Bulbul, and Olive-winged Bulbul are recorded one individual. Based on the species accumulative curve, the species composition is not reaching the plateau which indicates more sampling sessions are needed for Pycnonotidae at PCFR. In Plot 1, two bulbul species were recorded namely Spectacled Bulbul (LC) and the Grey-cheeked Bulbul (VU). In Plot 2 recorded the presence of Buff-vented Bulbul (NT), Stripe-throated Bulbul (LC), Cream-vented Bulbul (LC), and Hairy-backed Bulbul (LC). PCFR plays its role in providing a habitat for avifauna and resources to survive. Therefore, conservation efforts must be taken immediately to ensure this reserve is preserved and conserved