Análisis de la diversidad y ensamblaje de medianos y grandes mamíferos en el piedemonte amazónico del fin del mundo (Mocoa-Putumayo)

Abstract

The Amazonian foothills of the Putumayo department represent one of the areas with the highest biodiversity in Colombia, forming a mosaic of tropical humid forests that function as a biological corridor between the Andes and the Amazon. This region, considered part of a global biodiversity hotspot, harbors an extraordinary wealth of species, many of which are endemic or threatened, and performs essential ecological functions. Despite its ecological and social importance, the Amazonian foothills face increasing pressures from human activities. The lack of knowledge regarding the composition, abundance, and ecological roles of medium and large mammals limits informed decision-making for their management and conservation. In this context, the present study aims to characterize the structure and composition of the assemblage of medium and large mammals along the “End of the World” tourist trail, located in Mocoa, Putumayo. Biodiversity indices and field sampling methodologies were employed to assess the current status of the mammalian fauna, identify potential impacts, and propose guidelines for the conservation of these vertebrates in a territory of high biological value and increasing ecotourism use. A total of sixteen species were recorded in the study area, with significant differences found between conserved zones and those subject to high levels of human influence. Finally, the study’s findings contributed to the design of a scientific outreach tool in the form of a catalog of medium and large mammals, which promotes knowledge appropriation and conservation planning.