Forest fragmentation and edge effects on eight sympatric lemur species in southeast Madagascar

Extensive slash-and-burn agriculture in southeastern Madagascar has led to the fragmentation of forests in this region, creating a constricted available habitat area and increasing the proportion of forest edge. I investigated the response to forest fragmentation and edge effects in eight lemur species through comparisons of species density and diversity between fragments, as well as and correlation analyses including population distribution patterns, ecological variables, and distance from forest edge. I also include a more detailed focus on the behavioural response of Eulemur cinereiceps . Results were highly varied, with no species showing strong aversion to edge but with higher overall densities in larger, more connected fragments. Eulemur cinereiceps spent significantly more time near the forest edge while resting, but edge did not affect feeding patterns or food availability. These results suggest that conservation management should focus on maintaining large, complex fragments and improving connectivity through forest corridors.