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In situ projects in the protection of Pongo genus in connection with the expansion of oil palm plantations on the islands of Borneo and Sumatra
Talpová, Julie ; Masopustová, Renata (advisor) ; Dokoupilová, Adéla (referee)
This Bachelor Thesis is dedicated to the protection of Bornean orangutan Pongo pygmaeus and Sumatran orangutan Pongo abelii in connection to the expansion of palm oil plantations. The genus Pongo includes Bornean orangutan Pongo pygmaeus and the Sumatran orangutan Pongo abelii. Until recently these species were considered to be subspecies but on the basis of genetic analysis there were significant changes in the taxonomy. It can be assumed that the scheme will continue to evolve. Bornean orangutan is classified as endangered species by the IUCN, Sumatran orangutan even as critically endangered. Their vulnerability is apparent from their way of life. They are long-lived, but slowly reproducing animals. Female brings the first baby to the world after 15 years of age and is devoted to its eight years of age. They are typical representatives of arboreal primates. Trees are their sleeping place, provide them ability to move and serve as food source.
There are several sources of danger. The biggest threat is considered to be the loss of habitat of orangutans because of the establishment of oil palm plantations, logging and fires. These processes cause fragmentation of native habitats and access to forests means a threat of poachers. Elaeis guineensis is grown in Indonesia and Malaysia since the early 20th century and currently these countries produce 84% of world palm oil production. The lifetime of the plantations is estimated at 20-25 years. It is known that the soil is very exhausted after this time, the issue therefore is its future usefulness. The products are palm oil and palm-kernel oil, which are applied in food, cosmetics and industry. Both types of the oils contain high amounts of saturated fatty acids, therefore the WHO recommends to reduce the consumption of these oils.
The aim of the in situ projects in Borneo and Sumatra was originally an effort to return the rescued orangutans to the wild in the first place. Increasingly, however, the projects faced the problem that such animals have nowhere to return, as their original habitats no longer exist. For this reason, the attention shifts to protect the natural habitat of orangutans and existing wild populations, with emphasis on the rigorous quarantine of newly recruited individuals, their social integration into the group, but also educational programs for the public.
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