Publications
Discovery of a new species of Coendou (Rodentia: Erethizontidae) within the hyper-diverse mammalian community of Sangay National Park in Ecuador
Researchers have identified a new species of porcupine, Coendou sangay, within the highly diverse mammalian community of Sangay National Park in Ecuador. This discovery was made through extensive fieldwork spanning 15 years, involving 12,800 trap-nights and 2,400 camera-trap days. The new species is characterized by its medium body size, short tail (approximately 26% of head-and-body length), tricolored bristle-quills with brownish-red tips, and distinct cranial features. Phylogenetic analysis using mitochondrial Cytochrome b data revealed significant genetic divergence from its closest congeners, confirming it as a distinct lineage within Clade B. Notably, only one specimen was found, suggesting that Coendou sangay is a rare, canopy-dwelling specialist. The study also highlights Sangay National Park's remarkable mammal diversity, with 170 species recorded, including 18 endemic and 35 threatened taxa. This research underscores the importance of long-term, intensive inventories in uncovering cryptic arboreal lineages and emphasizes the urgent need for conservation measures to protect this high-elevation biodiversity hotspot.
Registros novedosos de dos especies de tapires en las estribaciones orientales de los Andes de Ecuador
Researchers document novel records of the lowland tapir (Tapirus terrestris) and mountain tapir (T. pinchaque) in Ecuador's eastern Andean slopes, including the lowest known elevation for the latter at 975 meters. The study compiled direct observations, camera trap data, tracks, and predation evidence from protected areas like Llanganates and Sangay National Parks, as well as community territories. Notably, the two tapir species were found to overlap at the extremes of their altitudinal ranges, with three predation events attributed to Andean bears (Tremarctos ornatus) and pumas (Puma concolor). The findings underscore the urgent need for strengthened conservation efforts due to threats from mining, road development, and hunting in these critical biodiversity areas.
The Long Journey of a Bird: From Sangay to the Laboratory
A decade-long effort to collect avian samples from Sangay National Park, Ecuador, has transitioned into a critical phase of pathogen research. The 20 bird species gathered during challenging fieldwork are now being analyzed for avian pathogens, marking a pivotal shift from logistical hurdles to scientific discovery. This study bridges the gap between remote expeditions and laboratory analysis, offering new avenues for understanding disease dynamics in tropical ecosystems. By leveraging advanced techniques, researchers aim to uncover insights that could inform conservation strategies and future fieldwork, while also fostering interdisciplinary collaborations.
Development of a Mathematical Model for the Prediction of Organic Carbon Loss Due to Water Erosion in the Upper Andean Micro-Watersheds of Sangay National Park
A robust mathematical model has been developed to predict organic carbon loss due to water erosion in the high Andean micro-watersheds of Sangay National Park, Ecuador. The model, based on soil physicochemical variables such as carbon content and the carbon-nitrogen (C_N) ratio, reveals that nutrient-rich soils exhibit greater resistance to erosion while compaction negatively impacts carbon storage capacity. Notably, deeper soil layers (60 cm) show more stability against surface erosion compared to shallower depths (30 cm). The model effectively accounts for variability in carbon dynamics under different conditions, providing a reliable tool for monitoring and mitigating erosion in vulnerable high-altitude ecosystems. This research addresses critical gaps in understanding soil organic carbon dynamics in remote Andean environments, offering practical insights for conservation efforts.
Spatiotemporal Analysis of Water Quality Conditions in High-Andean Lakes Based on Satellite Indicators Using Sentinel 2 and Landsat 8/9 Images
A spatiotemporal analysis of water quality in the ultra-oligotrophic Ozogoche lakes within Sangay National Park, using Sentinel-2 and Landsat 8/9 imagery, reveals consistent low nutrient levels over an eight-year period (2016–2024). The study leveraged automated water products from the C2RCC processor, with C2RCC demonstrating the highest accuracy for chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) measurements (RMSE = 0.68 mg/m³), outperforming other satellite-derived products. This approach effectively overcomes challenges posed by optical complexity and cloud cover, providing reliable data for monitoring high-Andean aquatic ecosystems. The findings underscore the potential of remote sensing to support sustainable water resource management in protected areas.
Coproductive Capacities Support Implementation of Ecuador’s Sangay-Podocarpus Connectivity Corridor
Ecuador's Sangay-Podocarpus Connectivity Corridor (CCSP) demonstrates that strong normative and cognitive capacities are critical for advancing ecological corridor implementation, though material constraints hinder sustained progress. The study highlights the CCSP's shared vision for social-ecological wellbeing and robust biophysical science foundation as key enablers of scientifically informed action. However, gaps in integrating social sciences and Traditional Ecological Knowledge, along with insufficient funding and human resources, pose significant challenges. Semi-structured interviews with stakeholders revealed that while normative capacities (shared values) and cognitive capacities (biophysical expertise) are well-developed, material capacities (resources) remain the weakest link. This research underscores the need for targeted capacity-building to sustain effective conservation efforts in biodiversity hotspots.
Evaluation of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Associated with Miconia bracteolata Bonpl case study High Andean Forest, Ecuador
Research in the Guangra sector of Sangay National Park's buffer zone, Ecuador, identified significant variations in arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) populations associated with Miconia bracteolata Bonpl. Plot 03 exhibited the highest AMF spore density (5637.95 spores/100 g soil), while Plot 01 showed the lowest (3586.46 spores/100 g soil). The study, employing advanced extraction and quantification methods, revealed a mean colonization percentage of 15.69% in slightly acidic soils, which strongly supports AMF spore survival. Notably, Glomus spp. demonstrated ecological significance in Plot 03, with high dominance according to Simpson's diversity index. These findings offer critical insights into ecosystem disturbance and biodiversity conservation in high Andean forests, aiding predictions of species distribution and ecological health.
Key connectivity areas in the Llanganates-Sangay Ecological Corridor in Ecuador: A participative multicriteria analysis based on a landscape species
Research identifies critical connectivity areas within the Llanganates-Sangay Ecological Corridor, essential for sustaining the dispersal of the Mountain Tapir. The study reveals that forest and native grasslands are vital for species movement, while roads pose significant barriers. Additionally, natural vegetation remnants between pastures and crops act as stepping-stones, facilitating connectivity. Using circuit analysis, multi-criteria decision analysis, and spatial suitability modeling, the study prioritizes sub-basins based on their importance for wildlife conservation. Threats to biodiversity and proximity to conservation areas were highlighted as key factors in spatial suitability. This approach integrates scientific data with stakeholder participation, offering a practical framework for balancing conservation needs with land management challenges in human-dominated landscapes.
Phylogenetic diversity of the Pristimantis anaiae species group, with a description of a new species of Pristimantis (Anura, Strabomantidae) from Cerro Candelaria, Tungurahua, Ecuador
Research on the Pristimantis anaiae species group in Ecuador's Andes reveals a new frog species from Cerro Candelaria, expanding the genetic diversity of the group. Phylogenetic analysis using mitochondrial and nuclear genes identified two well-supported subclades, with the new species closely related to P. kunam from Sangay National Park but distinguished by unique morphological traits. The study highlights the Llanganates – Sangay Ecological Corridor as a significant zone for adaptive radiation and conservation, underscoring its importance in understanding evolutionary processes.
Conservation Status of Macro Mammals in the Llanganates-Sangay Ecological Corridor and Anzu River Subbasin
A rapid ecological assessment reveals that the Llanganates-Sangay Ecological Corridor (CELS) and the upper subbasin of the Anzu River in Ecuador's tropical Andes host 35 species of macro mammals, including critically endangered flagship species such as the Andean bear, puma, and two tapir species. The study, employing camera traps, transect walks, and local interviews across six key localities, highlights the corridor's role in facilitating species movement between protected areas like Llanganates and Sangay National Parks and partially protected forests, including private reserves and community reserves. This continuity of natural habitat is identified as a priority for conservation efforts to ensure the survival of these threatened species.
The advertisement calls of Pristimantis galdi Jiménez de la Espada, 1870 and Pristimantis katoptroides (Flores, 1988) (Anura, Strabomantidae)
Researchers have documented for the first time the advertisement calls of two Ecuadorian frog species, Pristimantis galdi and Pristimantis katoptroides, within Sangay National Park. P. galdi's call consists of 7 to 9 short notes resembling a hammer striking a nail, with a mean dominant frequency of 2.39 kHz, while P. katoptroides emits a single metallic 'tic' sound at 1.74 kHz. Despite their morphological similarities—both belonging to the spiny green frog ecotype—their calls differ significantly from each other and from another related species, Pristimantis roni. The study underscores the challenges of recording these frogs due to their elusive nature, suggesting that long-term monitoring techniques could enhance our understanding of their acoustic signals in Ecuador's biodiversity-rich rainforests.
A new species of Andean mouse of the genus Thomasomys (Cricetidae, Sigmodontinae) from the eastern Andes of Ecuador
Researchers have identified and described a new species of Andean mouse, the largest of its genus found in Ecuador. This rodent, belonging to the 'aureus' group within the Thomasomys genus, inhabits the wet montane forests of Sangay National Park at elevations between 3,400–3,900 meters. Molecular phylogeny analysis using mitochondrial genes confirmed its distinct status and close relationship with an undescribed species from northern Ecuador. This discovery increases the known diversity of Thomasomys to 48 species, with 18 now recognized in Ecuador alone.
Bioacoustic description of the alarm call of the stump-tailed porcupine (Coendou rufescens)
Researchers have uncovered the first bioacoustic description of the alarm call of the stump-tailed porcupine (Coendou rufescens) in its natural habitat within Sangay National Park, Ecuador. The study identified a repertoire of up to four distinct types of notes—ranging from chirps to nasal sounds—within the species' alarm calls, characterized by dominant frequencies between 0.34 and 2.50 kHz. These variations are likely tied to anti-predatory behaviors, suggesting a complex acoustic communication system in this rodent. The findings were based on opportunistic recordings of an adult female during capture, providing foundational data for future bioacoustic studies on the species.
Six new species of Pristimantis (Anura: Strabomantidae) from Llanganates National Park and Sangay National Park in Amazonian cloud forests of Ecuador
Researchers have identified six new species of rainfrogs belonging to the genus Pristimantis (Strabomantidae) from Amazonian cloud forests in Ecuador, specifically within Llanganates and Sangay National Parks. These discoveries expand the subgenus Huicundomantis and introduce a highly divergent clade consisting exclusively of newly described species. The study utilized mitochondrial and nuclear gene analyses, including 16S rRNA, 12S rRNA, ND1, and RAG1, alongside high-resolution x-ray computed tomography to describe osteological features. Notably, the new species lack vocal slits and tympanic membranes, distinguishing them from related taxa. All six species are endemic to a single locality within their respective national parks, warranting Data Deficient (DD) Red List status. The findings also report the presence of intercalary elements in two species, marking the first such observation in the subgenus Terrarana.
A Nature Tourism Route through GIS to Improve the Visibility of the Natural Resources of the Altar Volcano, Sangay National Park, Ecuador
A new nature tourism route for the Altar Volcano, Sangay National Park, Ecuador, has been designed to enhance visitor experiences while promoting sustainable tourism. The study identified 19 key attractions and structured an itinerary that integrates diverse tourist activities, leveraging GIS mapping (ArcGIS 10.5®) to optimize distances and transportation logistics from base camps. This approach ensures a high level of tourist satisfaction by balancing natural resource visibility with practical accessibility. The research contributes to the sustainable development of tourism in Sangay National Park by providing a scientifically informed framework for future visitor management.
A new cryptic species of the Pristimantis lacrimosus group (Anura, Strabomantidae) from the eastern slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes
Researchers have identified a new cryptic species, Pristimantis petersioides, within the Pristimantis lacrimosus group from Llanganates and Sangay National Parks. This discovery, supported by molecular and bioacoustic evidence, reveals significant genetic divergence (7.9% to 8.4%) from its closest relative, Pristimantis petersi, challenging previous taxonomic assumptions. The study also clarifies the phylogenetic positions of four additional species, expanding our understanding of this diverse frog genus. Given its small distribution range and threats from deforestation, Pristimantis petersioides is suggested for inclusion in the Endangered Red List category.
Description and phylogenetic relationships of a new species of treefrog of theOsteocephalus buckleyispecies group (Anura: Hylidae)
Researchers have identified a new species of treefrog within the Osteocephalus buckleyi group, distinct from its closest relatives both morphologically and ecologically. This discovery, confirmed through integrative analysis combining morphological and genetic data, highlights the biodiversity of Sangay National Park in Ecuador's Amazon region. The new species exhibits unique traits while maintaining low genetic distances to related populations, suggesting complex evolutionary relationships within this group. The study also uncovered another unconfirmed candidate species, emphasizing the need for further exploration of this diverse amphibian group.
Tropical Dendroclimatology in the Ecuadorian Amazon with Cedrela odorata
Research reveals that Cedrela odorata, a tropical tree species, exhibits annual ring formation in the Ecuadorian Amazon, linked to periods of reduced precipitation (July-September) and subsequent temperature drops. This finding challenges the perception of uniform rainfall in the region, instead identifying bimodal climatic patterns with distinct wet (April-June, October-December) and dry seasons. The study, conducted in the karst area between Sangay and Llanganates National Parks, used dendroclimatology to analyze 64 trees, yielding a 60-year chronology calibrated with local meteorological data. Only two species—Cedrela odorata and Protium sp.—showed clear ring formation, with Cedrela odorata's growth correlating strongly with rainfall intensity. This discovery provides a novel climate proxy for the region, where instrumental records are scarce.
Link between cattle and the trophic status of tropical high mountain lakes in páramo grasslands in Ecuador
Extensive cattle grazing in the high-altitude páramo grasslands of Ecuador's Andes significantly influences the trophic status of tropical mountain lakes, with cattle abundance emerging as a key predictor of chlorophyll-a concentrations. A survey of 30 lakes in Cajas National Park revealed that higher cattle presence correlates with increased phytoplankton biomass and shifts in community composition, favoring diatoms and dinoflagellates over chlorophytes. Notably, Lake Culibrillas in Sangay National Park, where livestock farming is more intensive, exhibited chlorophyll-a levels more than double those observed in Cajas NP lakes, marked by a pronounced dinoflagellate bloom. Despite these increases, water quality remained low in eutrophication terms (0.02–1.8 µg/L), suggesting that while current grazing practices do not cause severe degradation, further intensification could deteriorate lake conditions. The study highlights the potential ecological risks of expanding livestock farming in páramo ecosystems.
New records and estimation of the potential distribution of the stump-tailed porcupine Coendou rufescens
Research identifies the highest-elevation record for the stump-tailed porcupine (Coendou rufescens) at 4,387 meters above sea level in Sangay National Park, Ecuador, surpassing previous known records and establishing a new benchmark for the family Erethizontidae. The study, based on field sightings, museum collections, and bioclimatic modeling across Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, reveals that temperature seasonality (BIO4) and minimum temperature of the coldest month (BIO6) are critical factors shaping the porcupine's distribution. Potential suitable habitat spans approximately 448,820 km², with Ecuador hosting the largest proportion (35.5%) within protected areas, underscoring its importance for conservation. The findings highlight the significance of landscape connectivity and protected regions in safeguarding this species.
Rodents of the eastern and western slopes of the Tropical Andes: phylogenetic and taxonomic insights using DNA barcodes
A groundbreaking study using DNA barcoding reveals that the eastern and western slopes of the Tropical Andes, particularly within Sangay National Park and Otonga, harbor distinct rodent species with minimal overlap. Only one species, Microryzomys minutus, was found to be shared between these regions, challenging current distribution assumptions for Akodon mollis and Chilomys instans, which may represent separate species. The research also suggests that Mesomys populations on the eastern slopes are genetically consistent with those in the Ecuadorian Amazon, indicating a single species. Additionally, it highlights potential new species within Mindomys and Nephelomys genera, emphasizing the need for further taxonomic research. This study underscores the Andes' biodiversity hotspot status and provides critical genetic data to accelerate taxonomic discoveries and understanding of evolutionary patterns.
Xylariales: First results of mycological exploration in the Sangay and Llanganates National Park, Ecuador
A mycological exploration of Sangay National Park (SP) and Llanganates National Park (LP), Ecuador, identified eight fungal species belonging to the genus Xylaria within the order Xylariales. Among these, one record remains unidentified at the species level, suggesting it may represent a new species. The study employed bioinformatic tools to analyze ribosomal DNA sequences (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2) and constructed a Maximum Likelihood phylogenetic tree to assess diversity and relationships among collected samples. These findings provide foundational data for designing conservation strategies aimed at preserving fungal biodiversity in these UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Xylariales: First results of mycological exploration in the Sangay and Llanganates National Parks, Ecuador
A mycological exploration of Sangay and Llanganates National Parks, Ecuador, has uncovered eight fungal samples belonging to the genus Xylaria within the order Xylariales. Two of these were identified from Sangay National Park, while six originated from Llanganates. Notably, four samples defied species-level identification, hinting at potential new species. The study employed phylogenetic analysis using Maximum Likelihood methods on ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 ribosomal DNA sequences to achieve taxonomic identification. This research provides foundational biodiversity data crucial for the conservation of fungi in Ecuador's protected areas.
Analytical methods comparison for soil organic carbon determination in Andean Forest of Sangay National Park-Ecuador
A study comparing two methods for determining soil organic carbon (SOC) in the Andean eyebrow forest of Sangay National Park, Ecuador, found that while both the ignition loss (LOI) and DUMAS combustion methods yield similar SOC measurements (R² = 0.99), the DUMAS method offers greater precision with reduced time and labor requirements. The research involved analyzing soil samples from five plots at four depths (0-10 cm, 10-20 cm, 20-30 cm, >30 cm) across three conglomerates in the southwestern zone of Sangay National Park. Though the correlation between methods was low, DUMAS demonstrated a slightly higher variability (3.38%), likely due to sample volume and equipment precision. These findings suggest that DUMAS combustion is a robust alternative for SOC determination, balancing accuracy with operational efficiency.
New species of arboreal rat of the genus Rhipidomys (Cricetidae, Sigmodontinae) from Sangay National Park, Ecuador
Researchers have identified a new species of arboreal rat, belonging to the genus Rhipidomys, within Sangay National Park, Ecuador. This discovery was made through a comprehensive analysis combining cranial and external morphology, morphometrics, and phylogenetic studies based on the cytochrome b gene. The new species is distinguished by its relatively small body size (average head–body length 123 mm) and unique cranial features, such as a constricted interorbital region, a barely perceptible postorbital crest in females, and a wide, round braincase. It also exhibits distinctive dental characteristics, including a large and deep hypoflexid on the third molar (m3). This species is currently known only from the southeastern portion of Sangay National Park, suggesting it may be endemic to the Cordillera Oriental of Ecuador. The study further provides insights into its natural history, reproductive behavior, vocalizations, habitat preferences, and phylogenetic placement.
A New Species ofPristimantis(Amphibia: Strabomantidae) from the Cloud Forest of Sangay National Park, Ecuador
Researchers have identified a new species of frog, Pristimantis tinguichaca, within the cloud forests of Sangay National Park, Ecuador. This discovery belongs to the Pristimantis unistrigatus group and is distinguished by unique morphological traits such as small conical tubercles on its upper eyelids and heels, along with a reddish iris. The species also exhibits distinct ulnar and tarsal tubercles and produces a single, sharp metallic call. Stomach content analysis revealed that its diet primarily consists of beetles (51.7%). The study highlights the biodiversity of Sangay National Park and contributes to the understanding of amphibian diversity in Andean cloud forests.
Forest biodiversity in Andean brow and its relation to the carbon content in the above-ground biomass
Andean brow forests, particularly those within the buffer zone of Sangay National Park in Ecuador, serve as significant carbon sinks, with above-ground biomass carbon content ranging from 30.56 to 182.24 tons per hectare. These variations are closely linked to biodiversity indices, such as Shannon and Simpson, which reflect species richness and evenness. The study identified Melastomataceae, especially the Miconia genus, as a dominant family, comprising nearly 31% of the 518 individuals sampled across 19 species, 18 genera, and 17 families. This finding underscores the potential of these forests to mitigate climate change through carbon sequestration while highlighting their vulnerability. The research employed 12 permanent sampling plots to assess biodiversity and carbon content, providing critical insights for conservation strategies that balance ecosystem services with environmental protection.
Mamíferos no voladores del Parque Nacional Sangay, Ecuador
Sangay National Park (SNP), Ecuador, hosts the highest diversity of non-volant mammals in the Andes of Ecuador and the second-highest in the tropical Andes, with 103 species recorded. The study identified 86 species through extensive fieldwork between 2010 and 2015, including six first-time detections for SNP, such as Chilomys instans and Marmosa rubra, and several endemic species like Caenolestes sangay. Rodents were the most diverse group (36 species). The research combined trapping techniques (Sherman, Tomahawk, pitfall traps) with direct and indirect detection methods, totaling 5,730 trap-nights. These findings underscore SNP's biogeographic significance and its role as a critical biodiversity hotspot.
Senecio sangayensis (Asteraceae, Senecioneae): a striking new species from the Ecuadorian highlands
Researchers have identified Senecio sangayensis, a striking new species of plant endemic to the eastern Ecuadorian Cordillera. This discovery is notable for its unique racemiform synflorescence, characterized by dense cymose-corymbs subtended by triangular-ovate bracts, and its distinctive life-history strategy. The species was found in the páramo ecosystems of Sangay National Park. Preliminary assessment indicates that Senecio sangayensis is Endangered (EN) under IUCN criteria, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect this rare and ecologically significant plant.
Presencia de la rata invasora Rattus rattus (Rodentia: Muridae) en el Parque Nacional Sangay, Ecuador
A rare record of the invasive black rat, Rattus rattus, was documented in Sangay National Park (SNP), Ecuadorduring a small mammal survey. The discovery, made in April 2012 at Sardinayacu within SNP, marks the first confirmed presence of this highly destructive species in Ecuador's pristine rainforests. Sampling involved six expeditions across four sites, deploying 1,800 traps over nine nights per season (rainy and dry) to capture terrestrial mammals. The study suggests that R. rattus, typically associated with human-disturbed environments, may be encroaching into undisturbed ecosystems via tourist and ranger trails originating from nearby communities. This intrusion poses potential threats to native fauna, highlighting the need for monitoring in protected areas.
A new species of shrew-opossum (Paucituberculata: Caenolestidae) with a phylogeny of extant caenolestids
Researchers have identified a new species of shrew-opossum, Caenolestes sangay, within Sangay National Park, Ecuador. This discovery expands the known diversity of northern shrew-opossums (Caenolestes), which are endemic to the northern Andes. The new species is characterized by distinctive morphological features, including a large major palatine foramen and a diastema between teeth I4 and C. Phylogenetic analysis suggests C. sangay is closely related to C. caniventer. The study highlights the region's high biodiversity but also underscores threats from habitat fragmentation due to road construction and land conversion. Limited sampling on the eastern Andes slopes restricts a full understanding of its distribution, emphasizing the need for further research in this understudied area.
Small Mammals Of Sangay National Park, Chimborazo Province And Morona Santiago Province, Ecuador
A comprehensive survey of small mammal diversity in Sangay National Park, Ecuador, identified 23 species, including two endemic to the park and one newly described. The study highlights the rich biodiversity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, with notable findings such as the presence of the Andean mouse (Thomasomys cinereiventer) and the Sangay rice rat (Oryzomys macconnelli sangayensis). Researchers employed a combination of live-trapping, camera trapping, and morphological analysis to document species composition, distribution, and ecological traits. This work underscores the importance of Sangay National Park as a critical habitat for small mammals in the Andean region.
Birds, Lower Sangay National Park, Morona-Santiago, Ecuador
A preliminary avifauna inventory of the lower zone of Sangay National Park, Ecuador, recorded 127 bird species across 39 families, including four notable range extensions: White-bearded Hermit, Black-mandibled Toucan, Spectacled Bristle Tyrant, and Wing-banded Wren. The study also documented threatened species such as Wattled Guan, Ecuadorian Piedtail, and Cerulean Warbler, along with reproductive data for the Scaled Pigeon. This represents the first ornithological survey conducted at this specific site within the park, providing critical baseline data for biodiversity assessment in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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