Remaining suitable areas for the critically endangered Brazilian Merganser (Mergus octosetaceus; Aves, Anseriformes) are threatened by hydroelectric power plants

• DOI: 10.1016/j.pecon.2021.04.002
• Publication Date: 2021-05-04T23:36:42Z
• Authors: Alex Augusto Abre...; Katia Maria Pasch...; Flávia Ribeiro; Lívia Vanucci Lins; Marcelo de Olivei...; Fernando Henrique...; Gislaine M.S. Dis...; Fabiane Sebaio; Paulo de Tarso Zu...; André de Camargo ...; Alexandre Resende; Adriano Rodrigues...; Antonio Eduardo A...; Luís Fábio Silveira
• Keywords: Hydroelectricity

The critically endangered Brazilian Merganser Mergus octosetaceus is one of the rarest waterfowls in world. Only three isolated populations remain Cerrado, totaling less than 250 individuals. We evaluated potential influence small hydroelectric plants (SHPs) and Protected Areas (PAs) on species’ conservation. identified suitable areas by using recent presence records environmental predictors, overlapped it with species dispersion zone SHP impact zone. Suitable for are limited to 4% geographic space (142,899 km2). Within zone, we found 36 planned SHPs, which can 4.1% area 17.2% inside PAs. Our results expose critical situation Merganser, few areas, high impacts known populations, a proportion out highlight need considering SHPs assessment studies reduce them. Furthermore, appointed search new emphasize how urgent implementation effective conservation actions aiming protect remaining habitats is.