Environmental Assessment
Volume C-4.4
Slurry Pipeline
Natural Habitats and Biodiversity
Ambatovy Project
152
January 2006
Forest edge and interior changes can negatively influence species within habitats
by changing moisture, light and nutrient regimes (Kitchell et al. 1979; Kapos
1989; Saunders et al. 1991; Brown 1993; Nichol 1994). Such changes in
microclimate are particularly important for some species of plants, fish,
amphibians and reptiles. It also increases the chances of introduction (accidental
or otherwise) of invasive or exotic species which can out-compete and replace
unique niches once held by native species within an ecosystem (sensu Turner
1996; Debinski and Holt 2000; Benstead et al. 2003). Edges can also alter
population and community dynamics, and the composition of indigenous species
(Karieva 1987; Fagan et al. 1999).
Increased spatial separation of habitats can impact the movement, dispersal
(animals and plants), survival and reproduction of individuals which may change
the probability of persistence of populations (Turner 1996; Fahrig and Paloheimo
1988; Pulliam 1988; Hanski 1996; Debinski and Holt 2000).
Reclamation during operation and closure is often the first step in re-establishing
a natural ecosystem. Successful reclamation could reverse some of the effects of
the project on natural habitats and biodiversity.
Table 4.4-4 presents a summary of the potential impact pathways between the
project and biodiversity.
Table 4.4-4 Summary of Potential Impacts to Natural Habitats and Biodiversity
Potential Impact Pathways from Project
Natural Habitat and Biodiversity Metrics
Habitat Area
Habitat
Fragmentation
Reclamation
primary forest, wetlands, degraded forest habitat
Y
Y
Y
species richness
Y
Y
Y
species endemism
Y
Y
Y
species conservation status
Y
Y
Y
Note: Y = Yes
Assessment Methods
Baseline data for species richness, endemism and conservation status (IUCN and
CITES listings) for plants and wildlife were used to estimate the current
biodiversity potential of habitats within the LSA (Volume C, Section 4.4.3).
Information on species richness, endemism and conservation status of fish was
also obtained to assess the relative contribution of aquatic macrofauna to
biodiversity in the LSA. Baseline values for area and composition of habitat
types within the LSA were calculated (Volume C, Section 4.4.3).
