Between Soy and Pumas: The Future of Brazilian Biodiversity Is in the Hands of Farmers
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Brazil harbors 13% of the world’s biodiversity, yet agricultural expansion threatens its biomes. Because 71% of the country is under rural properties, farmers are pivotal for conservation. In a rural municipality within the Atlantic Forest biome, we developed a citizen science project engaging students and farmers to monitor wildlife in forest remnants using camera traps. We documented the endangered Puma concolor and the invasive Sus scrofa, alongside other native fauna. Beyond new records, the initiative fostered dialogue, countered misinformation, and strengthened local partnerships, demonstrating how community-based science can reconcile biodiversity conservation with agricultural production.
Source: Diversity
DOI: 10.3390/d18050268
Authors: Fabio Angeoletto, Fabio Angeoletto, Aline Gauer, Adroaldo Sturmer, Domingos Sávio Barbosa, Franciele Finck, Clarisse Hendges Sturmer, Aline Locatelli, Alana Vanoni Alnoch, Bruna Luísa Bervian Schons, Davi Otávio Zohler, Emily Sturmer, Flora Essy Angeoletto, Flora Essy Angeoletto, Gabriel Binsfeld, Gabriela Catto Berwig, Haiana Luisa Mai Soares, Izadora Steffen Polla, Maria Clara Zandoná Tramontina, Théo Bernardo Rockenbach, Valentina Antônia Kohlrausch Pinto, Victória Schneider Giacomelli, Vinícius Drechsler, Mark D. E. Fellowes
Language: English
Subfield: Ecology
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDGs: Life on land, Zero hunger
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,534
OpenAlex ID: W7160166801