Herbarium
he RAP Bulletin of Biological Assessment is published by:
Conservation International
Center for Applied Biodiversity Science
2011 Crystal Drive, Suite 500
Arlington, VA 22202
USA
703-341-2400 telephone
703-979-0953 fax
www.conservation.org
www.biodiversityscience.org
Editor: Clare Morrison
Design: Patrick Pikacha
Maps: Nunia homas, Alivereti Naikatini, Conway Pene
Photographs: Nunia homas, Aaron Jenkins, Baravi haman, Gilianne Brodie, Elia Nakoro, Art Whistler, Visheshni
Chandra
RAP Bulletin of Biological Assessment Series Editors:
Jennifer McCullough and Leeanne E. Alonso
ISBN: # 978-1-934151-38-9
© by Conservation International
All rights reserved.
Conservation International is a private, non-proit organization exempt from federal income tax under section 501 c(3)
of the Internal Revenue Code.
he designations of geographical entities in this publication, and the presentation of the material, do not imply the
expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of Conservation International or its supporting organizations
concerning the legal status of any country, territory, or area, or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its
frontiers or boundaries.
Any opinions expressed in the RAP Bulletin of Biological Assessment are those of the writers and do not necessarily
relect those of Conservation International or its co-publishers.
RAP Bulletin of Biological Assessment was formerly RAP Working Papers. Numbers 1 – 13 of this series were
published under the previous title.
Suggested citation: Morrison, C. and Nawadra, S. (ed.). 2009. A rapid biodiversity assessment of the Nakauvadra Highlands, Ra
Province, Fiji. RAP Bulletin of Biological Assessment 57. Conservation International, Arlington, VA, USA.
Cover photos:
Top: Nakauvadra Range (Alivereti Naikatini)
Bottom left: Fiji Ground Frog, Platymantis vitianus (Baravi haman)
Bottom right: Fiji Golden Dove, Chrysoenas luteovirens (Baravi haman)
Table of Contents
Participants and Authors..............................................5
Organizational Proiles..................................................7
Chapter 7…………………………………………............76
Freshwater macro-invertebrates of the Nakauvadra
Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Gilianne Brodie
Acknowledgements.....................................................10
Report at a Glance.......................................................11
Executive Summary.....................................................14
Chapter 8……………………………………….…...........81
Insects of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Hilda Waqa-Sakiti
Chapters
Chapter 9…………………………………………............87
Freshwater ish and water quality of two catchments in
the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Aaron Jenkins
Chapter 1......................................................................36
Botanical survey of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province,
Fiji
Marika Tuiwawa and Arthur Whistler
Chapter 10…………………………………………..........92
Cultural survey of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province,
Fiji
Sepeti Matararaba and Elia Nakoro
Chapter 2 .....................................................................43
Herpetofauna of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province,
Fiji
Nunia Thomas
Appendices
Maps and Photos.........................................................23
Chapter 3......................................................................52
Preliminary baseline survey of the avifauna of the
Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Dick Watling
Chapter 4......................................................................60
Bats of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Alivereti Naikatini
Chapter 5......................................................................64
Invasive mammal fauna of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra
Province, Fiji
Jone Niukula
Chapter 6…………………………………………............70
Preliminary observations of terrestrial gastropods
of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Gilianne Brodie
Appendix 1...................................................................96
Checklist of the vascular plant lora of the Nakauvadra
Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Marika Tuiwawa and Arthur Whistler
Appendix 2.................................................................113
Tree plot data from the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province,
Fiji
Marika Tuiwawa and Arthur Whistler
Appendix 3...................................................
Geographical positions of sites surveyed for
herpetofauna in the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province,
Fiji
Nunia Thomas
Appendix 4...................................................
Details of frogs captured during herpetological surveys in
the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Nunia Thomas
Appendix 5..................................................
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
3
Table of Contents
Freshwater invertebrate taxa found at each site during
surveys of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Gilianne Brodie
Appendix 6..................................................
Sites of interest for terrestrial insects in the Nakauvadra
Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Hilda Waqa-Sakiti
Appendix 7..................................................
Water quality and habitat characteristics of sampling
sites in the Vunilaci and Vuniqesa Rivers, Nakauvadra
Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Aaron Jenkins
4
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Participants and Authors
Gilianne Brodie (terrestrial gastropods, freshwater
macro-invertebrates)
Biology Division
Faculty of Science, Technology and the Environment
University of the South Paciic
Private Mailbag
Suva, FIJI
Email: brodie_g@usp.ac.j
Aaron Jenkins and Kinikoto Mailautoka
(freshwater ish, water quality)
Wetlands International – Oceania (Fiji)
C/- Marine Studies Program
University of the South Paciic
Suva, FIJI.
Email: apjenkins@wetlands-oceania.org
Sepeti Matararaba (archaeology/cultural
signiicance)
Department of Pre-history Archaeology
he Fiji Museum
hurston Gardens
P.O. Box 2023
Suva, FIJI
Alifereti Naikatini (bats, plants)
South Paciic Regional Herbarium
Institute of Applied Sciences
University of the South Paciic
Private Mailbag
Suva, FIJI
Email: naikatini_a@usp.ac.j
Elia Nakoro (archaeology/cultural signiicance)
Department of Historical Archaeology
he Fiji Museum
hurston Gardens
P.O. Box 2023
Suva, FIJI
Email: rocksfel@yahoo.com.au
Jone Niukula (invasive mammals)
National Trust of Fiji
P.O. Box 2089,
Government Buildings,
Suva, FIJI
Email: j_niukula@yahoo.com
Isaac Rounds (plants)
National Trust of Fiji
P.O. Box 2089,
Government Buildings,
Suva, FIJI
Email: i.rounds@conservation.org
Baravi haman (freshwater ish)
South Paciic Regional Herbarium
Institute of Applied Sciences
University of the South Paciic
Private Mailbag
Suva, FIJI
Email: thaman_b@usp.ac.j
Nunia homas (herpetofauna, maps)
NatureFiji-MareqetiViti
259 Princes Rd.
Suva, FIJI
nuniat@natureiji.org
Marika Tuiwawa (expedition leader, plants)
South Paciic Regional Herbarium
Institute of Applied Sciences
University of the South Paciic
Private Mailbag
Suva, FIJI
Email: tuiwawa_m@usp.ac.j
Hilda Waqa-Sakiti (insects)
South Paciic Regional Herbarium
Institute of Applied Sciences
University of the South Paciic
Private Mailbag
Suva, FIJI
Email: waqa_h@yahoo.com
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
5
Participants and Authors
Dick Watling (birds)
NatureFiji-MareqetiViti
259 Princes Rd.
Suva, FIJI
nuniat@natureiji.org
watling@natureiji.org
Arthur Whistler (plants)
South Paciic Regional Herbarium
Institute of Applied Sciences
University of the South Paciic
Private Mailbag
Suva, FIJI
Email: whistler@hawaii.edu
6
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Organizational Profiles
FIJI WATER FOUNDATION
Launchedin
inAugust
August2007
2007through
througha agrant
grantfrom
from
Launched
FIJI
Water
owners
Stewart
and
Lynda
Resnick,
FIJI Water owners Stewart and Lynda Resnick,
the FIJI
FIJIWater
WaterFoundation
Foundationisisa acharitable
charitable
trust
the
trust
funded by our owners, employees, and partners
funded by our owners, employees, and partners
from around the world. he Foundation is one
from around the world. he Foundation is one
of the largest philanthropic organizations in Fiji
of
largeston
philanthropic
organizations
in Fiji
andthefocuses
three priority
areas of development
and
focuses
on
three
priority
areas
of
development
throughout Fiji; a) Improving access to and quality
throughout
Fiji;b)improving
a) Improving
access
and
quality
of health care,
access
to to
and
quality
of
care,and
b)improving
to and
quality c)
of health
education
provision access
of water,
sanitation,
of
education and
provision
of water,quality
sanitation,
c)
infrastructure
projects
to improve
of life.
infrastructure
projects
to
improve
quality
of
life.
he Fiji Water Foundation has contributed towards
Since
establishment,ofwe
in these
the establishment
thehave
Sovifunded
Basin projects
Trust Fund
and
three
areas
touching
beneiciariesInternatyional’s
in thirteen of Fiji’s
towards
funding
Conservation
work
in the Nakauvadra
fourteen
provinces. and Nakorotubu Ranges, Ra.
Fiji Water Foundation
P.O.Box 18799,
Suva.
91 Gordon Street,
Suva.
Fax: 3304774
www.ijiwater.com
CONsERvATION INTERNATIONAl
Conservation International (CI) is an international,
nonproit organization based in Arlington, VA.
CI’s mission is to conserve the Earth’s living natural
heritage, our global biodiversity, and to demonstrate
that human societies are able to live harmoniously
with nature.
he focus of CI – Fiji is to conserve larger
landscapes of natural forest and wilderness that
still exist in the country. Work mainly focuses
on Viti Levu, the largest island of the Fiji Group
where it is working towards establishing a Viti Levu
Conservation Corridor whose key sites include
the Sovi Basin and Nakauvadra Range. CI is also
working closely with local communities, partners, in
particular the National Trust to build capacity for and
implement efective conservation action. To protect
its marine resources Fiji has a lourishing network of
Locally Managed Marine Areas (LMMAs) and CI
- Fijiis supporting research to help local communities
improve their management of these areas.
2011 Crystal Drive, Suite 500
Arlington, VA 22202 USA
Phone: 1-703-341-2400
Fax: 1-703-553-0654
Web: www.conservation.org
3 Ma’afu Street, PO Box 2089
Suva, FIJI
Phone: +679 3314593
Fax: +679 3305092
sOUTh PACIFIC REgIONAl hERbARIUm
he South Paciic Regional Herbarium (SPRH)
is maintained and administered by the Institute
of Applied Sciences at the University of the South
Paciic (USP). he SPRH serves the member
countries of USP which consists of the Cook
Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue,
Solomon Islands, Samoa, Tonga, Tokelau, Tuvalu
and Vanuatu. It currently houses more than 50,000
vascular plant specimens in the main collection
and has a wet collection of plant parts, bryophytes
and algae from the Paciic region. he SPRH serves
as an important resource in matters pertaining to
the taxonomy, conservation and ecology of plants,
forestry, land use planning, economic plants and
weed problems in the Paciic region. As a member
of an international network of herbaria, the SPRH
participates in programs to maintain collections of
botanical plants specimens for study by both local
and international botanists and scientists working in
associated ields.
South Paciic Regional Herbarium
Institute of Applied Sciences
University of the South Paciic
Private Mailbag
Suva, FIJI
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
7
Organizational Proiles
Web: http://ias.fst.usp.ac.j/index.php?id=ias_
herbarium
Phone: +679 3232970
Fax: +679 3231534
bIOlOgy DIvIsION, UNIvERsITy OF ThE
sOUTh PACIFIC
he Biology Division at USP is part of the Faculty of
Science, Technology & Environment. he Division’s
primary task is undergraduate and postgraduate
teaching with a biology focus. his includes
undergraduate subjects in invertebrate biology,
plant diversity and conservation biology plus a
postgraduate course in biodiversity and conservation.
USP provides opportunity for in-depth, irst-hand
studies of two of the most diverse, yet contrasting
ecosystems in the world – tropical rainforests and
coral reefs. Several advanced courses emphasize the
ecology and conservation of these systems, which
are important throughout the South Paciic region.
he Division also plays an active role in the Faculty’s
Biodiversity and Conservation Research Group and is
perfectly placed for ield studies in tropical terrestrial,
freshwater, and marine ecosystems.
NATIONAl TRUsT OF FIJI
he National Trust for Fiji is a statutory body
created in 1970 for the protection of the country’s
national, cultural and natural heritage. he work of
the organization is supported by the National Trust
Act of 1978, the Government’s National Heritage
Policy of 1996 and the National Trust Amendment
Act of 1998. he role of the organization extends
beyond the management of individual properties
it owns or leases to a vision that embraces heritage
management in Fiji. Local communities are involved
in programmes, partnerships established locally
and internationally, and the organization adheres
to regional and international agreements. he
responsibility of the National Trust is to the people of
Fiji and to the international community.
National Trust of Fiji
P.O. Box 2089
Government Buildings
Suva, FIJI
Web: www.nationaltrust.org
Phone: +679 3301807
Fax: +679 3305092
Division of Biology
Faculty of Science, Technology and Environment
University of the South Paciic,
Private Mail Bag
Suva, FIJI
Phone: +679 3232876
Fax: +679 3231512
FIJI DEPARTmENT OF FOREsTs
NATUREFIJI-mAREqETIvITI
Fiji Department of Forestry
PO Box 2218
Government Buildings
Suva, FIJI
Phone: +679 3301611
Fax: +679 3318691
NatureFiji-MareqetiViti is the membership-based
working arm of the Fiji Nature Conservation Trust.
NatureFiji-MareqetiViti’s mission is to enhance
biodiversity and habitat conservation, endangered
species protection and sustainable use of natural
resources of the Fiji Islands through the promotion of
collaborative conservation action, awareness raising,
education, research and biodiversity information
exchange.
Phone: +679 3100598
Web: www.natureiji.org
Email: support@natureiji.org
he Department is committed to the development
of forest resource management strategies and the
enforcement of sustainable forest practices and aims
to maximize the contribution to the Forestry sector
of the country’s economy.
WETlANDs INTERNATIONAl - OCEANIA
Wetlands International – Oceania exists to sustain
and restore wetlands, their resources and biodiversity
for future generations through research, information
exchange and conservation activities, particularly in
the Paciic Islands region.
Wetlands International – Oceania (Fiji Oice)
8
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Organizational Proiles
C/- Marine Studies Program
University of the South Paciic
Private Mailbag
Suva, FIJI
Phone: + 679 925 5425
Fax: + 679 332 2413
Email: apjenkins@wetlands-oceania.org
FIJI mUsEUm
he Fiji Museum is a statutory body that is governed
by the Fiji Museum Act and the Preservation of
Objects of Archaeological and Palaeontological
Interest Act. he Archaeology Department at the Fiji
Museum utilizes the Acts in all its operations with
the aim of identifying, protecting and conserving
archaeological and cultural heritage for the current
and future generations.
he Fiji Museum
hurston Gardens
PO Box 2023
Suva, FIJI
Phone: +679 3315944
Fax: +679 3305143
Web: www.ijimuseum.org.j
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
9
Acknowledgments
his Rapid Assessment Programme survey would not have been possible without the help and
assistance of many organizations and individuals. Foremost we thank the Fiji Water Foundation
for the funds to enable this RAP survey to be carried out. We thank the following organizations
for providing personnel for the RAP survey: South Paciic Regional Herbarium (SPRH), and the
Institute of Applied Sciences of the University of the South Paciic, Conservation International (Fiji),
National Trust of Fiji, Fiji Museum, Wetlands International – Oceania, NatureFiji-MareqetiViti, Fiji
Department of Forestry and the Biology Division (University of the South Paciic).
he RAP was a success due to the outstanding contribution of the following individuals most
of whom are ailiated to the above mentioned institutions. We appreciate the assistance of Arthur
Whistler, Aaron Jenkins, Baravi haman, Kinikoto Mailautoka, Alivereti Naikatini, Jone Niukula,
Senivalati Vido, Isaac Rounds, Nunia homas, Hilda Waqa-Sakiti, Tokasaya Cakacaka, Presly Dovo,
Dick Watling, Sepeti Matararaba, Elia Nakoro, Talie Foliga, Gilianne Brodie, Sefanaia Nawadra,
Ilaitia Finau and Marika Tuiwawa.
We thank the SPRH and Conservation International (Fiji) for organizing the approval and
support for conducting the survey through the Ra Provincial Council and Oice. hank you to
the Vanua of Naroko, Tokaimalo, Rakiraki and Natokea for their approval and blessings. Special
mention goes to Assistant Roko – Amelia Ravu, Forestry Oicer – Nemani Vuniwaqa, and the Mata
ni Tikina of Tokaimalo and Naroko for paving the way. Without them things would have been so
much harder to arrange.
Special thank you to the local land-owning communities of Narara, Nayaulevu Vatukacevaceva
and Vunisea villages for their support and generous hospitality. We would also like to thank all our
local ield guides and porters for their indispensable help and enthusiasm throughout the survey. We
deeply appreciate the assistance of Miniroti, Kalaveti Ravulo, Sevuloni Vanavana, Belo, Tama i Ratu,
Iosefo, Jone, Nemani, Avai and Saloma.
Gilianne Brodie would like to thank Professor Per Sundberg, University of Rothenburg (Sweden)
for assistance with the identiication of the nematomorphan (horsehair) worm.
10
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Report at a glance
A RAPID BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT OF THE NAKAUVADRA HIGHLANDS, RA PROVINCE, FIJI
Expedition Dates
November 17-28, 2008
Description of Expedition
his 11-day RAP expedition surveyed several sites in the proposed Nakauvadra Range forest reserve,
a 11387 ha isolated forested remnant in the Ra Province, Fiji. he survey sites were located in
talasiga grassland, lowland rainforest, upland rainforest and cloud forest habitats in the northeast of
Fiji’s largest island, Viti Levu. he actual ield work began at Vatukacevaceva village where the team
hiked through the talasiga grasslands into the forested mountains. he irst base camp was located
at 280 m on a lood plain next to the conluence of the Nabiya and Toluwalu Streams in lowland
rainforest. he second base camp was located near the Vuniqesa Creek at 320 m altitude in lowland
rainforest. he third camp was located at 600 m altitude in cloud forest. hree to four days were
spent at each site with the exception of the third camp which was only surveyed for one night. All of
the sites showed signs of human disturbance but, with the exception of the talasiga grasslands, also
provided access to relatively undisturbed forest habitats.
Reason for the RAP Survey
In April 2008, the Fiji Water Foundation and CI entered into a three-year grant agreement to
protect the natural resources of Viti Levu, Fiji. One of the three key objectives of the Fiji Water
Grant involves technical assessments and community consultations to facilitate conservation
initiatives within the Yaqara and Nakauvadra watersheds. As part of the implementation of this
objective, one of the key components was to gain an understanding of the existing environment in
the Yaqara Valley and conduct an ecological baseline assessment of the Nakauvadra Range.
MAJOR RESULTS
In total the RAP survey documented 520 conirmed species (Table 1), including a number of
rare and endangered species. he discovery of the Fiji Ground frog (Platymantis vitianus) which
was thought to have been extirpated 20 years ago from mainland Fiji (including Viti Levu) was a
highlight of the survey. hree of Viti Levu’s globally threatened bird species were recorded, the Fiji
long-legged warbler (Trichocichla rufa), the Black-faced shrikebill (Clytorhynchus nigrogularis) and the
Friendly ground dove (Gallicolumba stairii) along with two rare and endemic stick insects Nisyrus
spinulosus and Phasmotaenia inermis. Two plant species of particular interest found were Degeneria
roseiflora (Viti Levu endemic, rare) and Neoalsomitra integrifoliola (rare in Fiji). New records and
range extensions were made for a number of species in all taxa. hese results suggest that due to its
moderate to high biodiversity and relative isolation, the Nakauvadra Range should be targeted for
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
11
Report at a Glance
conservation action.
(EN)
Samoan fruit bat Pteropus samoensis (NT, CITES
I, II)
Tongan fruit bat Pteropus tonganus (CITES I, II)
Species of conservation concern (IUCN 2008 and
CITES 2008)
Amphibians
Fiji ground frog Platymantis vitianus (EN)
Fiji tree frog Platymantis vitiensis (NT)
Reptiles
Paciic Boa Candoia bibroni (CITES II)
Plants
Astronidium robustum (NT)
Astronidium tomentosum (NT)
Degeneria roseiflora (NT)
Cycas seemannii (VU, CITES II)
Dendrobium biflorum (CITES II)
Fagraea gracilipes (NT)
Geniostoma cf. clavigerum (CR)
Oberonia heliophila (CITES II)
Pandanus cf. joskei (VU)
Podocarpus affinis (VU)
Podocarpus neriifolius (CITES III)
Birds
Fiji goshawk Accipter ruftitorques (CITES II)
Paciic harrier Circus approximans (CITES II)
Black-faced shrikebill Clytorhynchus nigrogularis
(VU)
Friendly ground dove Gallicolumba stairii (VU)
Collared lory Phigys solitarius (CITES II)
Fiji long-legged warbler Trichocichla rufa (EN)
Barn owl Tyto alba (CITES II)
Mammals
Paciic sheath-tailed bat Emballonura semicaudata
Table 1. Number of species recorded during the 2008
Nakauvadra Range RAP survey. Insects are not included due to incomplete identiication of specimens (completed down to
family only).
Total
Plants
Herpetofauna
Birds
Mammals
Terrestrial gastropods
Freshwater
macroinvertebrates1
Freshwater ish
TOTAL
418
11
34
9
5
35
Number of endemic
species
138
4
13
0
-
Number of native
species
200
5
17
3
-
Number of
introduced species
80
2
4
6
1
-
8
520
0
155
6
231
2
95
1 - represents unknown number of species in the category (39 species in total unclassiied due to unconirmed
identiications)
12
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Report at a Glance
KEY CONSERVATION RECOMMENDATIONS
(Additional recommendations are presented in the
Executive Summary)
Protection of important habitats
Because of the relative pristine nature of the forests
in the Nakauvadra Range and the fact that it is one
of the last remaining intact forest systems on the
drier side of Viti Levu, every efort should be made
to collaborate with local communities, Government
departments, conservation NGOs and academic
researchers to conserve the forests in the region.
his will also include rehabilitation of forest areas
decimated by clearing for agriculture and grazing
by goats. In particular, forests in the upper reaches
of the three main river headwaters, the Nakauvadra,
Penang and the Wainibuka catchments, should be
preserved as protected areas to maintain water quality
and act as a repository for potable water for the local
communities (only three rivers, the Nakauvadra,
Penang and the Wainibuka catchments, are currently
oicially recognized in the area).
Community awareness and education
As the land in the Nakauvadra Range is owned by
local communities, they will play a vital role in the
future conservation management of the region and
the biodiversity within. As such, it is critical that
local communities are made aware of the negative
impacts of some of their activities as well as ofered
potential solutions and/or information to ameliorate
the impacts of their daily activities.
Future research
Due to the short-term nature of this RAP survey,
the data collected represents a ‘snapshot’ of the
Nakauvadra Range and its biodiversity and
conservation value. All researchers involved in this
survey agree that further surveys are needed to
improve the quality of the data and provide more
complete checklists of biodiversity in the area.
Additional surveys are also important for assessing
the conservation status and distribution of threatened
or endangered species recorded during this RAP
survey. In addition, future surveys will provide
information on seasonal variation as well as provide
a more robust baseline for long-term monitoring of
biodiversity trends in the region.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
13
Executive summary
INTRODUCTION
he Republic of Fiji consists of approximately 300 islands located roughly 3000 km east of Australia
in the Paciic Ocean (between 16o and 20oS, 177oW and 175oE). here are four main islands
in the Fiji group: Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Taveuni and Kadavu. he two largest islands, Viti Levu
(10,544 km2) and Vanua Levu (5,535 km2) comprise 88% of the total land area (~18,300 km2). It
is estimated that no more than 100 islands are permanently inhabited.
Most of the islands are the remnants of once active volcanoes sitting on a piece of the Paciic
Plate. he landforms of the major islands are diverse and often spectacular, marked by sharp volcanic
plugs, ruined calderas, deep gorges and ravines carved by mountain streams, wide lat-bottomed
valleys, extensive lood plains and mangrove dominated deltas. Fiji’s larger volcanic islands are
dominated by steep mountainous country. he highest mountain, Mt Tomaniivi on Viti Levu is
1323 m and there are 30 peaks over 1000 m (Nunn 1998).
he tropical maritime climate is without great extremes of heat or cold. he mean monthly
temperature ranges from 23oC in July and August to 27oC in January. In all seasons the
predominant winds are the light to moderate tradewinds from the east or southeast. Strong winds
are uncommon with the exception of cyclones which generally occur between November and April.
Although rainfall is extremely variable, the average rainfall increases steadily inland from coastal
areas. In addition, the windward sides of the major islands intercept the easterly air stream and
experience far greater rainfall than the leeward sides, consequently resulting in distinctly ‘wet’ and
‘dry’ zones. Generally, the ‘dry’ zone of the larger islands receives an average rainfall of between
1650-2300 mm, the ‘wet’ zone 3050-3450 mm. Some localities commonly receive over 10,000 mm
per year.
Fiji is large enough to support a wide range of habitats. hese include lowland and montane
rainforest, cloud forest, coastal communities and mangroves, inland swamps and wetlands, mixed
grasslands and dry forests (Mueller-Dombois and Fosberg 1998).
Scope of project
In April 2008, the Fiji Water Foundation and Conservation International (CI) entered into a threeyear grant agreement to protect the natural resources of Viti Levu, Fiji. he agreement focused on
three key objectives:
1. Deinition of the Viti Levu Conservation Corridor;
2. Contribution to the Sovi Basin Trust Fund; and
3. Scientiic and technical assessments and community consultations to facilitate conservation
initiatives within the Yaqara and Nakauvadra watersheds.
14
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Executive Summary
his RAP survey was undertaken as part of the
process to facilitate conservation initiatives within
the Yaqara and Nakauvadra watersheds. More
speciically, the survey was conducted to gain a better
understanding of the existing environment in the
Yaqara Valley and provide an ecological baseline
assessment of the proposed Nakauvadra Range forest
reserve. his information will then be used to make
informed decisions on the conservation management
of the biodiversity in the area in conjunction
with local landowning communities and relevant
government departments.
RAP SURVEY OVERVIEW AND OBJECTIVES
CI’s RAP is an innovative biological inventory
program designed to use scientiic information
to catalyze conservation action. RAP methods
are designed to rapidly assess the biodiversity of
highly diverse areas and to train local scientists
in biodiversity survey techniques. Since 1990,
RAP’s teams of expert and host-country scientists
have conducted 60 terrestrial, freshwater aquatic
(AquaRAP), and marine biodiversity surveys
and have contributed to building local scientiic
capacity for scientists in 26 countries. Biological
information from previous RAP surveys has resulted
in the protection of millions of hectares of tropical
forest, including the declaration of protected
areas in Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, and Brazil and the
identiication of biodiversity priorities in numerous
countries.
Criteria generally considered during RAP surveys
to identify priority areas for conservation across
taxonomic groups include: species richness, species
endemism, rare and/or threatened species, and
habitat condition. Measurements of species richness
can be used to compare the number of species
between areas within a given region. Measurements
of species endemism indicate the number of species
endemic to some deined area and give an indication
of both the uniqueness of the area and the species
that will be threatened by alteration of that area’s
habitat (or conversely, the species that may be
conserved through protected areas). Assessment of
rare and/or threatened species (IUCN 2008) that
are known or suspected to occur within a given
area provides an indicator of the importance of
the area for the conservation of global biodiversity.
he conirmed presence or absence of such species
also aids assessment of their conservation status.
Many of the threatened species on IUCN’s Red List
carry increased legal protection thus giving greater
importance and weight to conservation decisions.
Describing the number of speciic habitat types or
subhabitats within an area identiies sparse or poorly
known habitats within a region that contribute to
habitat variety and therefore to species diversity.
he primary aim of this RAP survey was to
document the terrestrial lora and fauna diversity and
the cultural signiicance of the Nakauvadra Range in
the Ra Province on Viti Levu, Fiji. he information
collected will be used to make informed decisions on
the conservation management of the biodiversity in
the area. We selected survey sites to encompass the
major habitat types found within the Nakauvadra
Range.
Our speciic objectives were to:
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Collect baseline data on the diversity and
conservation signiicance of major terrestrial
lora and fauna taxa in the Nakauvadra
Range.
Identify potential threats to biodiversity in
the area, and propose mitigation strategies
to enhance biodiversity conservation in the
Nakauvadra Range.
Increase local capacity by providing handson training in ield biodiversity inventory
techniques for students, local guides and local
government researchers.
Make RAP data available for conservation
management decision makers in
Government, local communities, NGOs,
academia and the general public.
Study area
he proposed Nakauvadra Range forest reserve
encompasses an area of 11387 ha ranging from
300-866 m elevation in the Ra Province in the
northeast of Viti Levu south of Rakiraki town (see
Map 1a). he Nakauvadra Range extends for about
22 km along the north coast of Viti Levu with the
eastern lank terminating in clifs at Viti Levu Bay.
To the west the range is about 6.5 km wide with the
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
15
Executive Summary
highest peak Uluda rising to more than 800 m and is
bordered by steep clifs on the northern and southern
slopes (Hirst 1965). he range is made up of andesite
rocks of the Ba volcanic group formed from two
main volcanoes, the Tavua and Rakiraki volcanoes.
Radiometric dating of the Ba volcanic group shows
a range of between 5.0 to 3.0 Ma (Rodda 1976).
Drainage at Nakauvadra Range is controlled by
north-westerly fractures some which have been
intruded by dykes. Several spurs extend southeast
while to the east of the range a large northwesterly
spur forms the rounded hills of Rokavukavu
Peninsula (Hirst 1965).
In the lower regions there is a mix of disturbed
vegetation, such as grasslands, plantations,
agroforests, and secondary forest in the relatively
lat and accessible land near villages. Native lowland
forest, upland forest and cloud forest occur in the
more rugged and higher elevation areas. he range
is completely surrounded by cleared land with the
nearest forested block being 4 km to the southwest.
here are many trails through the forested areas
which are generally used by local communities to
travel between villages and for hunting.
he Nakauvadra Range lies in one of the
drier areas in Fiji. here are no rainfall data or
meteorological data available from within the
Nakauvadara Range. he Nakauvadra Range lies on
the leeward side of the main island and being situated
on the rain shadow it receives on average around
2000 mm of rain per year, half the amount it would
get if located on the windward side (Raj 1993).
Monthly rainfall data ranges from about 50 mm
during the dry season to about 400 mm during the
wet or cyclone season (Fiji Meteorological Oice).
he nearest weather station is located at the Penang
Sugar Mill. Minimum monthly temperatures range
between 20.2-23.5oC while maximum monthly
temperatures range between 27.1-20.1oC.
he Nakauvadra Range is divided amongst
approximately 75 traditional landowning units
(Mataqali) that are based in 3 districts; Naroko,
Tokaimalo and Naiyalayala.
Site descriptions
Most of the survey work was carried out along two
infrequently used trails (Vatukacevaceva to Nayaulevu
Village trail, and Vunisea to Narara Village trail)
and their surrounding creeks and streams that form
the headwaters of the Wainibuka River. he areas
16
surveyed along both trails ranged from 100 m to
about 700 m in elevation. he majority of the
creeks at higher altitudes (500-600 m) were dry and
began to ill up at lower altitudes (<400 m). Overall,
the higher altitude forest (600-800 m) along the
northern border had greater species diversity and was
more heterogeneous. In the lower altitude forests
(100-300 m) along the southern border there were
seral gradients along the larger creek edges and heavy
encroachment of some better known invasive trees
like Spathodea campunulata, Albizia saman and Piper
aduncum. he general lack of ground cover, absence
of epiphytes on tree trunks and dry stream beds
in a pristine native forest is indicative of a lowland
rainforest on the drier side of Viti Levu.
Camp site 1
Camp site 1 was set up at an elevation of about
300 m on a creek lat at the conluence of the
Nabiya and Toluwalu creeks which are headwaters
of the Wainibuka River. he vegetation around
the campsite was that of a lowland vegetation type
that is typical of a system previously exposed to
anthropogenic activities and/or damaged by natural
disasters like loods and cyclones. Away from the
riparian vegetation the forest canopy was generally
closed as evident in the low levels of ground cover.
Occasionally along the slopes and creek lats native
trees with diameter at breast height of up to 80 cm
were encountered.
Camp site 2
Camp site 2 was set-up at an elevation of 320 m on a
lat area near the Vuniqesa Creek. More recent (and
regular) impacts on the vegetation were evident in the
presence of more plants and animals associated with
human activities. hese included Dioscorea spp (“wild
yams”), Bambusa vulgaris and B. simplex (bamboos),
Citrus limon (wild lemon), Mangifera indica (mango),
Colocasia spp. (taro), Derris malaccensis (derris) and
Syzygium malaccensis (malay apple). Most of these
plants were noticed along the trail. When compared
to Camp 1 the overall species diversity was poorer
and the presence of large areas with almost a pure
stand of a single sub-canopy tree species was more
prevalent.
Camp site 3
Camp site 3 was set up alongside a stream lat at an
elevation of about 630 m. he surrounding area was
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Executive Summary
very wet with stunted trees covered with mosses,
liverworts and lichens. On average, tree heights were
about 2-4 m with dbh of 8 cm. here were more
epiphytes and vines (Freycinetia spp.) and ground
cover was total. he more common subcanopy
trees were Psychotria spp. and canopy trees were
Metrosideros colina.
Overall species richness was very high especially
with native species.
SUMMARY OF RAP RESULTS BY TAXONOMIC
GROUP
Vegetation
A total of 418 plant taxa (including eight
undetermined angiosperm species) were
recorded comprising 75 ferns and their allies,
ive gymnosperms and 338 angiosperms. Of the
recorded species, 338 were native species and 80
were aliens. he 338 native taxa could be divided
into two groups; (i) indigenous species (200 species),
and (ii) endemic species (138 species) equating
to an endemicity of 41% of the native lora and
34% for the entire lora. Two species of particular
interest were Degeneria roseiflora (rare on Viti Levu)
and Neoalsomitra integrifoliola (rare in Fiji). Four
principle vegetation types were identiied: (1) Talasiga
Vegetation, (2) Lowland Rainforest, (3) Upland
Rainforest, and (4) Cloud Forest. Most of the lower
elevation vegetation types were disturbed or partially
disturbed while the higher elevation vegetation types
were generally primary forest.
Herpetofauna
A total of 11 frog and reptile species were
documented representing approximately 33% of Fiji’s
terrestrial herpetofauna. his included three frog
species, four skinks and four geckoes. In addition,
skin sheds from the snake Candoia bibroni were also
observed. All species were observed in relatively low
abundances. Four of the species are endemic to Fiji
(Platymantis vitianus, P. vitiensis, Emoia concolor and
E. parkeri). With the exception of the introduced
cane toad (Bufo marinus), and the mourning gecko
(Lepidodactylus lugubris), the remaining species
are native to Fiji and the Paciic. his survey
documented the only known extant population
of P. vitianus on Viti Levu. his frog species was
thought to have been extirpated from Viti Levu in
the last 20 years and as such this result highlights the
conservation signiicance of the Nakauvadra Range
for herpetofauna biodiversity.
Birds
A total of 34 bird species were recorded in the
surveys. hirteen species are endemic to Fiji, four
were introduced species and the remainder native.
hree of Viti Levu’s globally threatened species were
recorded – Long Legged Warbler (Endangered,
auditory record only); Black-faced Shrikebill and the
Friendly Ground-Dove which was quite common.
Notable species not recorded included the Masked
Shining Parrot and the Polynesian Starling, though
these have both been recorded previously. For birds,
the Nakauvadra Range has the same conservation
signiicance as other large forest blocks on Viti Levu.
Mammals
Only three species of bats were recorded: Pteropus
tonganus, P. samoensis and Emballonura semicaudata.
he latter two species are listed in the IUCN Red
List as Near hreatened and Endangered respectively.
No roost of any of the bat species was recorded
within the area covered during the survey. Six
invasive mammal species were recorded during the
survey. hese included two rat species (Rattus exulans
and R. rattus), one mongoose (Herpestes fuscus),
domestic horses (Aquus caballus), goats (Capra sp.),
domestic dogs (Canis familiaris), and pigs (Sos scrofa).
Although most of these species were observed in very
low densities, they were found throughout the area
surveyed including fairly secluded and hard to reach
regions on mountain ridges and denser forest. he
inding of the mongoose H. fuscus is only the second
record of the species in Fiji (compared to common
small Indian mongoose H. javanicus). Due to the
size of the area and accessibility, eradication of most
of these invasive mammal species is not feasible.
However it may be possible to increase reforestation
rates of the native lora through the removal and/or
exclusion of goats from the area.
Terrestrial gastropods
Even without dedicated sampling at least ive
diferent species of terrestrial gastropod were found.
One species (Parmarion martensi Simroth 1893) is
introduced and has documented agricultural pest
and human health associations. All of the other
species found are very likely to be unique to Fiji
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
17
Executive Summary
(endemic) and members of their families from other
Paciic Island countries are listed as threatened
on the IUCN Red List. Based on the previously
recorded high diversity of terrestrial gastropods in
Fiji, increased sampling efort in wetter conditions
would undoubtedly reveal a higher diversity of both
endemic and native species being present.
Freshwater macroinvertebrates
he total species richness of macroinvertebrates
found in the four sites sampled was 35 species with
mayly abundance and caddisly larval diversity
being high. hese results are indicative of relatively
“healthy” streams and are as expected for upper
catchment streams surrounded by a relatively
“undisturbed” catchment area. No obvious invasive
freshwater macroinvertebrates were found during
sampling. However, there were obvious signs of
invasive weeds in the stream beds particularly in
the lower Volivoli Stream sites sampled. his is of
concern as any similar accidental introductions of
non-native freshwater invertebrate species in the
future, such as viviparid gastropods, may displace the
native fauna and introduce species capable of acting
as vectors for human-related illnesses.
Terrestrial Invertebrates
he order Coleopetera (beetles) was the most
common insect order encountered through the
surveys with a total 18 families. Rare families
encountered during the surveys included:
Cerambycidae, Lucanidae and Buprestidae. he
greatest diversity of insects sampled from the
Nakauvadra Range using nocturnal searches, tree
beating and butterly surveys was located within
relatively intact, lowland forest near the conluence of
the Nabiya and Volivoli Creeks. he highlight of the
survey was the discovery of two stick insects both of
which are endemic and very rare in the Fiji islands,
with virtually nothing known about either species:
Nisyrus spinulosus (syn. Cotylosoma) and Phasmotaenia
inermis (syn. Hermarchus) and a shy scorpion
Liocheles australasiae. hese were also found within
the lowland forested area.
Freshwater ish
Eight species of ish from ive diferent families
were collected or observed during the survey. Two
species were collected from the family Gobiidae
(Awaous guamnesis and Sicyopterus zosterophorum)
18
that dominated the mid and the upper catchments.
Also collected were three species of freshwater eels
from the family Anguillidae (Anguilla marmorata, A.
obscura and A. megastoma). he freshwater moray,
Gymnothorax polyuranodon (Family Muraenidae),
was also observed but not collected. We did not
record any introduced exotic species in the mid
and upper catchments although we observed that
the lower catchment of the river system was heavily
populated by the introduced Mozambique Tilapia
Oreochromis mossambicus (Family Cichlidae) and the
mosquitoish, Gambusia affinis (Family Poeciliidae).
he two catchments surveyed appear depauperate
in both diversity and abundance of ishes. here are
a number of notably absent families (eg. Kuhlidae,
Eleotridae) and the sparse ichthyofauna that remains
are among the hardier, ubiquitous species. No
endemic or sensitive, rare fauna were observed.
Cultural signiicance
During the course of the survey, an annotated ield
map of signiicant cultural sites was constructed
to identify and map sites of historical and cultural
signiicance in the Nakauvadra Range. Our resulting
maps generally depicted that resting spots or stopover spots were found high up in the forest and close
to mountain peaks. Fortiied settlements in the form
of ring-ditches and stone walls were evident further
up into the forest and closer to water sources. Also
observed were mound features used as native land
boundaries showing land holding units amongst the
diferent yavusa or clans during Rt. Sukuna’s presence
in the Veitarogi Vanua around the early 1950s.
CONSERVATION RECOMMENDATIONS
Address potential threats
Protection of Nakauvadra Range
he forests in the Nakauvadra Range are one of the
last remaining intact forest systems on the drier side
of Viti Levu. hese forests are currently not protected
by any environmental legislation or conservation
initiatives in Fiji. As the forests in the area are
comparatively pristine and isolated due to their
relative current inaccessibility, they provide potential
security for a number of endemic taxa and habitats
in Fiji. For example, the Nakauvadra Range contains
the only known population of the endangered Fiji
ground frog, Platymantis vitianus, which was thought
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Executive Summary
to have been extirpated from Viti Levu 20 years
previously. As such, the results of this RAP survey
can be used to develop a sustainable, long-term
conservation plan for the Nakauvadra Range in
collaboration with local landowning communities,
relevant government institutions (at the local,
regional and national scales), conservation NGOs,
and academic institutions.
In particular, forests in the upper reaches of the
three main river headwaters, the Nakauvadra, Penang
and the Wainibuka catchments, should be preserved
as protected areas to maintain water quality and
act as a repository for potable water for the local
communities (only three rivers, the Nakauvadra,
Penang and the Wainibuka catchments, are currently
oicially recognized in the area).
Some special micro-habitats were observed where
an almost pure stand of a single species of plant was
found. his included a Pandanus forest, an intact
Metrosideros colina forest and a forest dominated by
the majestic Agathis macrophylla. Such systems are
rare and in the Nakauvadra Range they were found
in sections of the upper lowland vegetation with
primary forest further away from known trails.
Similarly the upland forests found at around
the 550-650 m elevation and cloud forests noticed
at elevations >600 m had some of the best primary
forest stands on Viti Levu. Of particular interest is its
rich epiphytic lora especially the orchids and ferns.
Such intact forest systems on the drier side of Viti
Levu are rare as most have now being replaced with
talasiga grassland and plantation forest.
Taxa-speciic threats
Herpetofauna
Feral pigs and horses used by hunters pose a serious
threat to the breeding habitats of the both the Fiji
ground frog and the tree frog. Hunters should
be made aware of the impacts of their horses on
breeding habitats and encouraged to avoid riparian
forest areas.
he presence of the introduced mongoose Herpestes
fuscus and rats pose a potential threat. here is
no evidence as yet on the direct impacts of the
mongoose and rats on herpetofauna populations in
the Nakauvadra Range; and the rediscovery of the
ground frog questions the previously hypothesized
negative impacts of mongoose on the frogs. A more
detailed survey is needed to address this issue.
Birds
he size of the Nakauvadra Range forest and its
complete isolation from other forest blocks makes it
vulnerable to extirpation of species which are poor
dispersers over non-forest habitats and have large
home ranges such as the Masked Shining Parrot and
the Giant Forest Honeyeater. his appears not to
have happened as yet but mitigation measures should
be taken to prevent any further erosion of forest size
or quality.
Invasive mammals
Although rats and mongoose are known to have
detrimental impacts on native fauna and lora, the
eradication of these species from the Nakauvadra
Range is not feasible given the size of the area and
the high potential for re-introduction. On the other
hand, the removal or exclusion of goats from parts
of the Nakauvadra Range is a feasible and useful
exercise given that goats are a major hindrance to the
re-growth of native forest especially on the periphery
and in the high rocky and grassland areas. his could
be done by:
l Identifying potential reforestation sites in
consultation with local communities.
l Establishing exclusion zones (fencing, etc.).
l Removal of goats from project sites and
monitoring vegetation re- establishment.
Terrestrial gastropods
he unique nature of Fiji’s land snail fauna, and the
high potential for its irretrievable loss by high risk
invasive species, makes strategic planning for their
long-term conservation vital. hese goals would
be best achieved by relatively large scale habitat
conservation in areas such as native forest and
areas with signiicant deposits of limestone (needed
by many terrestrial gastropod species for shell
development).
Freshwater macroinvertebrates
he macroinvertebrate biodiversity ratios found (i.e.
high mayly and caddisly larvae) are as expected
for upper catchment streams surrounded by native
forest with a relatively “undisturbed” catchment
area. However, there is evidence of invasive weed
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
19
Executive Summary
species along the stream beds which implies there is
strong potential for similar introductions of invasive
freshwater fauna. Eforts should be made to reduce
pathways for introduction and spread including:
l Restricting horse access.
l Keeping the use of camp streams and access
tracks to a minimum.
l Controlling the entry of human related waste
e.g. chemicals or rubbish, into streams.
Special eforts should be made to keep the natural
vegetation intact and undisturbed along all stream
banks since the overall health of the waterways is
likely to be reliant on organic matter inputs from the
surrounding forest.
Freshwater ish
Catchment level management and rehabilitation
should be undertaken especially in the lower
catchments in order to restore some of the ecosystem
function of rivers in the Nakauvadra Range and in
turn increase the ish migratory capacity to the upper
catchments. Some potential options for assisting in
catchment rehabilitation are:
and will also kill all juveniles, thus removing future
potential populations.
Introduced ish species at the lower catchment
of the two rivers are a major threat to native ish
diversity. he introduced species Oreochromis
mossambicus and Gambusia affinis will feed on the
larvae of the migratory species which must use the
river as their migration path. Eforts must be made
to ensure that these species are not introduced into
other catchments in the Nakauvadra Range.
Community awareness
As the land in the Nakauvadra Range is owned by
local communities, they will play a vital role in the
future conservation management of the region and
the biodiversity within. As such, it is critical that local
communities are made aware of the negative impacts
of some of their activities as well as ofered potential
solutions and/or information to ameliorate the
impacts of their daily activities. Some of these have
been discussed previously for speciic taxa. Additional
community education and awareness will include:
l Community-based replanting of bufer zones
particularly in mid-catchment areas adjacent
to subsistence agriculture and road crossing
areas.
l Village level waste and water management
plans (e.g. construction of ecological or
compost toilets, livestock waste areas,
minimize livestock traversing waterways).
A concerted efort should be made to prevent the
introduction of any exotic aquatic fauna to the
upper sections these rivers. Any introduction will
likely further erode the ecological function of these
waterways. Stocking of native species (e.g. Gudgeons)
could be considered as well as integrated irrigation/
aquaculture of prawns (Macrobrachium sp).
he use of these poisonous Derris sp. plants
for ishing should be strongly discouraged. It can
change the quality of water by depleting oxygen and
asphyxiating all aquatic life, particularly in pools and
slower lowing reaches of streams. It is indiscriminate
20
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
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Awareness of the negative impacts of
uncontrolled burning on the lora and fauna
of the region.
Awareness of the impacts of invasive
species on both local fauna and lora due to
uncontrolled access to all sites within the
region.
Awareness of the signiicance of the native
fauna and lora and the need to conserve
forested areas for biodiversity conservation.
Awareness of alternative forms of sustainable
livelihoods.
Awareness of the need to preserve cultural
sites and oral traditional stories from within
the region.
Awareness of the importance of bats and their
ecological role, something which has been
neglected in many Fijian communities where
bats are not seen as important species, but
only a nuisance.
Executive Summary
Future research
Further surveys are needed to improve data quality
and provide more complete checklists of biodiversity
in the area. Additional surveys are also important for
assessing the conservation status and distribution of
threatened or endangered species recorded during this
RAP survey. In addition, future surveys will provide
information on seasonal variation as well as provide
a more robust baseline for long-term monitoring of
biodiversity trends in the region.
Plants
1. More specimen collections are needed as only a
very small area was accessed during this survey.
he checklist of vascular species present is
only preliminary and probably includes only
70% of the species present. he orchids are
much under-represented, since many of the
species are restricted to the tops of trees, where
they were not observed (Fiji has about 150
native species of orchid). Epiphytic plants and
especially ferns are also under-represented for
the same reasons.
2. More plots need to be sampled at much higher
elevations (cloud forest) and further away from
known trails.
3. It is particularly necessary that future
collections be carried out at least four months
away from November to allow for seasonal
variation.
Bats
More surveys need to be conducted in the
Nakauvadra Range for bats to:
1. Locate the presence of any roosting colonies of
each bat species as none were found during this
survey. his is to be carried out in nearby forest
areas and at diferent times of the year.
2. Monitor population size of the diferent bat
species foraging in the Nakauvadra Range.
Since no roosts for any of the three species were
located during this survey it was impossible to
carry out density or abundance estimates for
bats in the area.
3. Determine whether the Fiji blossom bat
(Notopteris macdonaldi) is also present in the
region.
Terrestrial gastropods
Future, more focused, surveys and research of
terrestrial gastropods in more suitable weather
conditions are needed to:
1. Obtain a more comprehensive checklist of
species in the region.
2. Capitalize on their suitability as excellent
sentinel taxa for ecosystem change.
3. Assess the potential of Parmarion martensi to
detrimentally afect human health (through
consumption) and native fauna.
Insects
A more comprehensive and accurate checklist of
insects in the Nakauvadra Range can be obtained by:
Herpetofauna
Further surveys are needed for the herpetofauna of
the Nakauvadra Range. More speciically further
studies are needed to:
1. Determine the distribution of P. vitianus in the
region.
2. Estimate population sizes of P. vitianus and P.
vitiensis.
3. Determine the presence of other herpetofauna
species that were likely missed during this
survey due to time and weather constraints.
4. Collect DNA for biogeographical comparisons
to populations in other areas of Fiji.
1. Using more entomological trapping techniques
including malaise trapping and active
searching.
2. Surveying in more suitable weather and at
diferent times of year to capture seasonal
variation.
3. Surveying more speciic habitats at a wider
range of elevations.
4. Targeting rare and endemic species.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
21
Executive Summary
In addition, the rare, endemic and possibly
endangered insect species particularly N. spinulosus
and P. inermis should be monitored throughout the
year and between years to provide data on population
numbers, local distribution patterns and seasonality
patterns for the development of appropriate
conservation and protection strategies.
Cultural diversity
In order to avoid the loss of traditional knowledge of
the region, we recommend the following:
1. Proper and complete documentation of the
survey area and oral history be undertaken.
his to be translated into the Fijian language
with copies made available to the locals.
2. he old village site belonging to the people
of Vunisea (and other villages) displaying a
formation of fortiication wall that is unique
(and not recorded previously in Fiji), be
cleaned and maintained by the local villagers.
3. Traditional knowledge of biodiversity overall
is poor and training for the locals with the
assistant of elders from the locality should be
encouraged and supported.
REFERENCES
Mueller-Dombois, D. and F. R. Fosberg. 1998.
Vegetation of the Tropical Paciic Islands.
Springer Press, New York.
Nunn, P. D. 1998. Paciic Island Landscapes. he
University of the South Paciic, Suva, Fiji.
Raj, R. 1993. Extreme rainfall in Fiji and its
socio-economic implications, paper presented
at the Western Paciic Workshop on Seasonal
to Inter-Annual Climate Variability. Bureau of
Meteorology, Melbourne, Australia.
Paciic Workshop on Seasonal to Inter-Annual
Climate Variability: Bureau of Meteorology,
Melbourne, Australia.
Terry, J. P. 2007. Tropical Cyclones. Springer,
New York.
22
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
maps and Photos
Map 1a. Map of Fiji with location of Nakauvadra Range on Viti Levu.
Map 1b. Location of survey areas within the Nakauvadra Range
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
23
Map and Photo’s
Map 2. Vegetation sampling sites in the Nakauvadra Range
Map 3. Herpetofauna sampling sites in the Nakauvadra Range
24
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Map and Photo’s
Map 4. Bird sampling sites in the Nakauvadra Range
Map 5. Bat sampling sites in the Nakauvadra Range
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
25
Map and Photo’s
Map 6. Invasive mammal sampling sites in the Nakauvadra Range
Map 7. Freshwater macroinvertebrate sampling sites in the Nakauvadra Range
26
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Map and Photo’s
Map 8. Insect sampling sites in the Nakauvadra Range
Map 9. Freshwater ish sampling sites in the Nakauvadra Range
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
27
Map and Photo’s
28
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Map and Photo’s
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
29
Map and Photo’s
Photographer’s initials are listed at the end of each photo description. NT = Nunia Thomas, GB = Gilianne Brodie,
AW = Art Whistler, VC = Visheshni Chandra, BT = Baravi Thaman, EN = Elia Nokoro
1. Dry sections of Toluwalu Stream with 2. Volivoli Creek, downstream of Base
intermittent non-stagnant pools of water Camp 1 is dominated by big boulders
(NT)
(NT)
3. Upper Nabiya Stream, with low water
levels during the survey (NT)
4. Vuniqese Stream, just beside Camp
2. The gravid female P. vitianus was
captured from this stream on one of
these boulders. The skink, E. impar
was also observed in high abundance,
foraging along this stream bank (NT)
5a. Fiji Ground Frog, Platymantis
vitianus (NT)
5b. Fiji Tree Frog, P. vitiensis (NT)
5c. Introduced cane toad, Bufo marinus
(NT)
6. Blue-tailed copper striped skink
(native), E. impar foraging on the
boulders along Vuniqese Stream (NT)
7. The endemic Fiji copper headed
skink, E. parkeri captured along Nabiya
Stream (NT)
30
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Map and Photo’s
9. Skull of the introduced mongoose
H. fuscus found along a dry section
of the Nabiya Stream bed. The whole
skeleton was still intact whendiscovered
(NT)
8a. Giant forest gecko, G. vorax
found inland from Nabiya Stream,
underneath tree bark (NT)
8b. Giant forest gecko, G.
vorax found inland from Nabiya
Stream, underneath tree bark
(NT)
10. Introduced species Parmarion
martensi Simroth 1893 (GB)
11. Shell of the endemic Fiji species
Placostylus sp. (A10) (GB)
12a. Living specimen of likely
endemic species (A2) from the family
Helicarionidae (GB)
12b. Living specimen of likely
endemic species (A5) from the family
Helicarionidae (GB)
13. Cicada commonly encountered in
light traps (AW)
14. A nymph of the genus Diaphlebus
(Tettigoniidae: Mecopodinae). Three
endemic species are known from Fiji
and were irst recorded in the 1890s;
(Naskrecki, pers. comm. 2009) (AW)
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
31
Map and Photo’s
15. Endemic Fijian swallowtail butterly,
Papilio schmeltzi (VC)
16. Endemic and very rare Fijian stick
insect, Nisysus spinulosus (AW)
17. Endemic and rare Fijian stick insect
(right), Phasmotaenia inermis (AW)
18. Shy and docile scorpion Liocheles
australasiae (AW)
19. Male climbing goby, Sicyopus
zosterophorum (Upper Vunilaci River)
80 mm SL (BT)
20. Recently used Derris roots on the
banks of the Vunilaci River (BT)
21. The introduced species
22. Algae bloom in the lower catchment, 23. Searching for remains at
Oreochromis mossambicus is highly
indicative of nutrient loading and
Vunirautoba (EN)
abundant in lower catchment areas (BT) harmful to freshwater biodiversity (BT).
32
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Map and Photo’s
24. The rock arch that gave Osa-nai-vua 25. The front face of the rock at Osaits name (EN)
nai-vua (EN)
26. Binibini (Putuputu) qele (EN)
27. Surface investigation at Nasovu
rock shelter (EN)
28. Scavenging the Asenauluna
site for pottery remains (EN)
29. Resting underneath the huge rock at
the Wainibela rock shelter
(EN)
30. The lattened platform at Marika’s
site (EN)
31. House mounds at Hilda’s site (EN)
32. Belo’s rock shelter (EN)
33. Inside the ring ditch at the Motoriki
Hill fortiication (EN)
34. Stone wall at the Motoriki Hill
Fort (EN)
35. Map of the Vunivauvau Old Village
(EN)
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
33
Map and Photo’s
36. Resting under the Matarau rock
shelter (EN)
37. Lower Bua Old village (EN)
39. The Rogorogoivuda at Uluda(EN)
40. Tobu ni sili (EN)
41. One of the brother’s house
mounds (right) (EN)
42. The rain tree at Conua (EN)
43. Vatukacevaceva Old Village Site
(EN)
44. Resting at the Navoka rock
shelter (EN)
45. Delaisuvani Peak (EN)
46. Pottery shards collected by the
freshwater group (EN)
47. Pottery shards from Matarau rock
shelter (EN)
34
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
38. Upper Bua Old village (EN)
Map and Photo’s
48. Pottery shards from the Asenauluna 49. Pottery shards from Bua Hill Fort
rock shelter (EN)
(EN)
51. Pottery shards from the Wainibelo
rock shelter (EN)
50. Pottery shards from old Bua
Village (EN)
52. Pottery shards from the Nasovu rock 53. Water jug handle from
shelter (EN)
Vatukacevaceva Village (EN)
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
35
Chapter 1
Botanical Survey of the Nakauvadra
Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Marika Tuiwawa and Arthur Whistler
Team members: Talie Foliga (postgraduate
student, USP), Isaac Rounds (National Trust of
Fiji), Minirote (Narara Village), Belo (Nayalevu
Village), Nemani (Fiji Department of Forestry).
SUMMARY____________________________________________________________________________
he lora of the Nakauvadra Range is described from a rapid assessment survey of its principle
habitats. A total of 418 plant taxa (including eight undetermined angiosperm species) were recorded
comprising 75 ferns and their allies, ive gymnosperms and 338 angiosperms. Of all the recorded
species, 338 were native species and 80 were aliens. he 338 native taxa could be divided into two
groups; (i) indigenous species (200 species), and (ii) endemic species (138 species) equating to an
endemicity of 41% of the native lora and 34% for the entire lora. Two species of particular interest
were Degeneria roseiflora (rare on Viti Levua) and Neoalsomitra integrifoliola (rare in Fiji).
Four principle vegetation types were identiied: (1) Talasiga Vegetation, (2) Lowland Rainforest,
(3) Upland Rainforest, and (4) Cloud Forest. Most of the lower elevation vegetation types were
disturbed or partially disturbed while the higher elevation vegetation types were generally primary
forest.
he indings are discussed in a conservation framework that highlights the taxonomic and/or
ecosystem value of notable plant species and vegetation types.
INTRODUCTION_______________________________________________________________________
The botanical survey in relation to previous surveys
he range of mountains comprising Nakauvadra lies on the northeast side of Viti Levu. It is a
mix of disturbed vegetation, such as grasslands, plantations, agroforests, and secondary forest in
the relatively lat and accessible land near villages. Native lowland forest, upland forest and
cloud forest occur in the more rugged areas and higher elevation areas. here are no known
records of any previous botanical expeditions to the Nakauvadra Range as relected in the lack of
botanical specimen records deposited in the SUVA herbarium. In 2004 a forest tree inventory
was carried out by Fiji’s Department of Forestry but this was restricted to native timber tree
species only.
he current survey was conducted in November 2008 and involved several botanists and
vegetation ecologists including Mr. Marika Tuiwawa (Curator of the South Paciic Regional
Herbarium) and Dr. Art Whistler (University of Hawai‘i Botany Department) who were assisted
by Mr. Talie Foliga, Mr. Isaac Rounds, and several local ield guides. Other scientists not
speciically part of the botanical team but involved in the RAP also helped with the collection of
fertile specimens encountered during the course of their ield work.
36
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Botanical Survey of the Nakauvadra
Range, Ra Province, Fiji
METHODOLOGY_______________________________
base camp in Rakiraki Town.
Field base camps
he actual ieldwork began at the village of
Vatukacevaceva where the team hiked through
the grasslands up the slope and into the forested
mountains. Field base camp 1 (herein referred to as
Camp 1, see Maps 1b, 2) was set up on a lood plain
next to the conluence of the Nabiya and Toluwalu
streams which are headwaters of the Volivoli Creek, a
tributary of the Wainibuka River for three days. he
research team then established Camp 2 (see Maps
1b, 2) near the Vuniqesa Creek at 320 m elevation
and spent four days at this base camp. Camp 3 was
set up at approximately 600 m elevation by the Bird
and Mammal Groups where they opportunistically
collected botanical specimens. hese teams spent
only one night at Camp 3 before they were rejoined
by the rest of the expedition team hiking out of the
mountains along a path that in places exceeded 600
m elevation.
At Camps 1 and 2 reconnaissance trips were made
into the surrounding forests, during which time plant
specimens were collected and vegetation qualitatively
and quantitatively sampled. Several 1000 m2 plots
were set-up and sampled and involved measuring
the diameter at base height (dbh) of trees in the
delineated plots. Specimens collected were processed
as herbarium specimens and were later dried at the
primary base camp in a government quarters in
Rakiraki Town. Fertile specimens were photographed
before preliminary identiication was carried out.
Vegetation survey
he vegetation was surveyed by sampling trees found
in ive 1000 m2 plots. he sites where the plots were
placed were selected based on three criteria; 1) the
area was undisturbed or disturbed to a minor extent;
2) the area was representative of the dominating
topographic feature (i.e., creek lat, ridge top, slope)
and; 3) the area was relatively accessible from the ield
base camps.
To facilitate sampling, ten 10 x 10 m subplots
were marked of within each plot. hese subplots
were usually aligned in a straight line, but because
it was sometimes diicult to ind a suitable 100 m
long patch of homogeneous vegetation, the subplots
were occasionally arranged in a diferent pattern
(depending upon the situation). Once the subplot
boundaries were laid out, the ield crew went through
and measured every tree with its diameter at breast
height (dbh) greater than 5 cm. his was done by
means of a “dbh tape” wrapped around the trunk at
breast height (ca. 1.6m). hese measurements along
with the identity of the trees were recorded. If the
tree could not be immediately identiied, lowers,
fruits, and/or leaves were collected by means of long
poles or by someone climbing the trunk. Voucher
specimens were collected, including those plants
that could not be identiied in the ield, for further
taxonomical treatment back at the Herbarium at the
University of the South Paciic in Suva. Non-tree
species were also recorded in each of the plots. hese
primarily included terrestrial ferns, herbs, epiphytes
(mostly orchids, ferns and fern allies), lianas, and
shrubs.
he tree data for the ive plots sampled is shown in
Appendix 2. To produce the tree plot data tables in
Appendix 2, the total basal areas (the cross sectional
area of the trunk at breast height) for all species were
determined by adding up the dbh measurements
of all the individual trees. his is displayed in the
column headed “Basal Area.” he species were
arranged from highest to lowest basal area. he
column headed “No. of Trees,” is the total number
of trees of each species found in the plot. his is an
indicator of frequency, but the trees may be small and
have a low overall dominance because of relatively
small dbhs. he third column, “No.>15 cm,” is an
indicator of typical tree size. If all of the trees of a
species are under 15 cm dbh, this often indicates
that the tree is small and not a canopy species. he
Botanical Surveys
Flora survey
he lora survey involved the compilation of a
comprehensive annotated checklist of plants (see
Appendix 1) based on qualitative ield observations
and the quantitative assessment of vegetation growth
status and plant distributions observed in and around
the sections of the mountain range visited.
In addition to the qualitative and quantitative
surveys, fertile (bearing fruits and/or lowers) and
sterile specimen samples were collected, labeled
and brought back to the ield base camps from the
vegetation survey plots. he samples were trimmed
or arranged to the requisite size of herbarium voucher
specimens and placed between sheets of newspaper
numbered according to ield notes. All collected
specimens were then prepared for drying at the main
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
37
Chapter 1
last column, “Rel. Dom.” (relative dominance), is
the parameter for determining “dominance.” It is
obtained by dividing the basal area of each species by
the total basal area of all trees in the plot. he total
basal area of all trees in the plot is found in the lower
right-hand corner of the table.
RESULTS_______________________________
Flora
A total of 418 plant taxa (including eight
undetermined angiosperm species) were recorded for
the Nakauvadra Range (see Appendices 1 and 2). Of
the recorded species, 338 were native and 80 were
alien species.
he 338 native taxa recorded included ferns and
their allies (75 species), gymnosperms (5 species),
and angiosperms (258 species), and could be divided
into two groups; (i) indigenous species (200 species),
and (ii) endemic species (138 species). his equates
to an endemicity of 41% of the native lora and 34%
for the entire lora. Two species of particular interest
were Degeneria roseiflora (rare on Viti Levua) and
Neoalsomitra integrifoliola (rare in Fiji).
he alien species were divided into two groups:
those that were aboriginal introductions (22 species)
and modern introductions (58 species). he four
aboriginal introductions that have become naturalized
include Cordyline fruticosa, Syzygium malaccense,
Artocarpus altilis and Aleurites molucana. Similarly
the exotic weeds Sporobolus diander, Pennisetum
polystachyon, Panicum maximum and Derris
malaccensis have become naturalized.
Despite the high number of alien species recorded,
the overall abundance of the native lora and intact
status of the vegetation on the mountain range will
make further botanical studies for the area very
interesting.
Vegetation
he vegetation of the study area in Nakauvadra Range
can be divided into several entities based upon the
type or habit of species that dominate (e.g., trees,
grasses, etc.), elevation, topography and species
composition. During the ieldwork, four principle
vegetation types based on Mueller- Dombois
and Fosberg (1998) (not including the distinctly
disturbed communities, such as plantations) could be
distinguished: (1) Talasiga Vegetation, (2) Lowland
Rainforest, (3) Upland Rainforest, and (4) Cloud
38
Forest.
Talasiga vegetation
his community is anthropogenic in nature (i.e.,
created by human activities). he term talasiga (“sun
burnt land” in Fijian) is the term applied to the iremodiied or ire-degraded grasslands and fernlands
that cover much of the dry side of the larger Fijian
islands (Parham 1972, Smith 1979). Fires, mostly
intentionally set, regularly devastate this community,
preventing the successful re-establishment of native
tree species. Talasiga covers about a third of the area
of the two main Fijian islands, Viti Levu and Vanua
Levu, mostly in the poorer, eroded areas of the dry
zone on the western sides of these islands.
he lower elevations fringes (100 – 250 m.a.s.l.)
of the Nakauvadra Range are covered with talasiga
vegetation especially along the slopes and ridges.
Sections of this vegetation type were only briely
surveyed as it is highly disturbed and will continue
to be disturbed. he lora is largely dominated by
hardy, ire-resistant ferns and alien herbaceous species,
mostly grasses. Mueller-Dombois and Fosberg
(1998) divided this plant community into several
associations, based upon which fern or grass species
dominate. he Nakauvadra talasiga its best within
the association referred to as “Sporobolus indicus (Wire
Grass) Grassland.” he two dominant grass species
typically are Sporobolus indicus and Dichantium
caricosum with an occasional patch of the introduced
Pennisetum polystachyon. Approximately 50 other
species were also recorded here, but none of them
with any abundance approaching that of the two
above-mentioned grasses. he creek valley is covered
with mixed forest vegetation comprising the common
introduced Albizia saman, Albizia lebbeck and
Mangifera indica, and the native Elattostachys falcata,
Alstonia vitiensis, Glochidion seemannii, Alphitonia
spp. and Mussaenda raiateensis. his area remains
forested as it is not prone to becoming alight during a
bush ire.
Along the upper fringes of the talasiga grassland,
savannah-like vegetation was observed. Here shrubs
and/or trees were common and included some of
the more common succession trees like Commersonia
bartramia, Tarenna sambucina the two Alphitonia
species and Macaranga harveyana. Also included
are Aleurites molucana, Bischofia javanica, Cananga
odorata and Hibiscus tiliaceus. Shrubs included
Acalypha repanda, A. insulana, Morinda citrifolia,
Psidium guajava, Syzygium malaccense, Glochidion
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Botanical Survey of the Nakauvadra
Range, Ra Province, Fiji
spp. Mussaenda raiateensis. Herbs and vines included
Curcuma longa, Zingiber zerumbet, Heliconia paka,
Nephrolepis spp., Christella harveyi, Dioscorea
bulbifera, D. alata, Merremia peltata, Ipomoea indica,
Mucuna platyphylla, Entada phaseoloides, Citrus spp.,
Musa x paradisiaca subsp. sapientum, Xanthosoma
sagittifolium and Elastostema spp.
Lowland rainforest vegetation (LRV)
he majority (about 65%) of the Nakauvadra Range
is covered by this vegetation community and can
be observed from as low as 200 m to roughly 500
m.a.s.l. Not all the LRV observed was primary forest
as seen by the species composition in some areas.
he occurrence of plants such as Aleurites molucana
(candlenut), Artocarpus altilis (breadfruit), Syzygium
malaccense (Malay apple), Vietchia joannis, Bischofia
javanica, Cananga odorata, Citrus spp., Codiaeum
variegatum and Dioscorea nummularia and D. alata
in the area indicate centuries of human inluence and
habitation. In certain sections of the LRV these plants
are common enough to classify the vegetation as
“agro-forest,” (vegetation that is intermediate between
native forest and plantation). Segments of these agroforest systems were observed along the “traditional
highways” used by the survey team to access the
mountain range. In other sections of the LRV further
away from the traditional highway stands of primary
forest were observed.
Five plots of LRV were sampled during the present
study. LRV in the study area was not homogeneous
due to variations in elevation, topography, and degree
of historical and present disturbances. Based on these
variations and variations in species composition,
three main variations of LRV were identiied in the
ive plots. hey were “Creek Flat” forest type due to
its occurrence on alluvial soil near streams; “Slope
Forest” forest type due to its presence on slopes; and
“Ridge Forest” forest type due to its presence on
distinct ridges.
Creek Flat Forest Type (Plot 1). his forest type was
probably disturbed in the past by natural events such
as loods and cyclones. A total of 172 trees (with
dbhs > 5 cm) representing 44 species (see Appendix
2) were recorded in the plot. By far the most
common tree species in the plot was the subcanopy
or understory tree Gironniera celtidifolia, which had
more than three times as many individuals as any
other species (44 individuals). he other common
subcanopy and understory trees in the making
up over 50% of all trees encountered included
Kingiodendron polycarpum (12), Dillenia biflora (11),
Litsea sp. (c.f. mellifera) (11) and Pagiantha thurstonii
(10).
In terms of dominance Endiandra elaeocarpa was
ranked irst (about 16% relative dominance with only
eight trees). Second was Dysoxylum sp. (11% relative
dominance but with only one tree), followed by
Kingiodendron polycarpum (10% relative dominance
with 12 trees) followed by Gironniera celtidifolia (8%
relative dominance but with 44 trees).
Slope Forest Type (Plot 2). his forest type was
situated on a slope near Camp 1 at an elevation
of 330 m. A total of 168 trees (with dbhs > 5 cm)
representing 40 species (see Appendix 2) were
recorded from the plot. he most common tree
species found in was the subcanopy tree Gironniera
celtidifolia (38 individuals). his was followed by
Vietchia vitiensis (18), Myristica castaneifolia (12),
Garcinia myrtifolia (9) and Pagiantha thurstonii (8).
hese ive species represented more than 50% of trees
found in the area.
he dominant tree species was Aleurites molucana
(15% relative dominance). he next ive dominant
tree species were Dillenia biflora (10%), G.
celtidifolia (10%), Syzygium c.f. curvistylis (9%) and
Endospermum macrophyllum (8%) which combined,
contributed to 50% of the total biomass of trees in
the plot.
he presence of the species A. molucana, D.
biflora, V. joannis and the common occurrence of the
subcanopy trees P. thurstonii and G. celtidifolia are
characteristic of “disturbed forest.” his forest type
had either been cleared deliberately by humans or
through natural disasters like cyclone and loods or
both in the recent past.
Slope Forest Type (Secondary Forest) (Plot 3). his
forest type was situated on a slope near the Camp
2 at an elevation of 320 m (similar to Plot 2). A
total of 161 trees (with dbhs > 5 cm) representing
30 species (see Appendix 2) were recorded from the
plot. he most common as well as most dominant
species was Gironniera celtidifolia. his one species
comprised 45% (72 individuals) of all the trees
present with a relative dominance of 16%. he next
most dominant species was Glochidion sp. with 14%
relative dominance followed by Dysoxylum richii
and Elattostachys falcate, both of which are common
canopy trees in disturbed forest. he presence of B.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
39
Chapter 1
javanica, Syzygium malaccense, D. biflora and Citrus
maxima further substantiates our conclusion that this
plot was an agro-forest. It may have been cleared
in the recent past for cultivating herbaceous crops,
which did not persist once the forest canopy returned.
Ridge Forest Type (Primary Forest) (Plot 4). his
forest type was situated on a ridge above the Camp 2
at an elevation of 440 m. A total of 213 trees (with
dbhs > 5 cm) representing 50 species (see Appendix
2) were recorded in the plot. he most common tree
found in the forest type was the palm Vietchia vitiensis
(35 individuals). Five other common trees observed
included Parinari insularum (20), Gironniera
celtidifolia (16) followed by Pagiantha thurstonii,
Myristica castaneifolia and Endiandra sp. each with
11 indivduals. hese six tree species make up 50%
(105 individuals) of all trees observed in the 1000
m2 plot. Plots 4 and 5 (discussed next) are the only
plots where Gironniera celtidifolia was not the most
common species.
he dominant tree species was Parinari insularum
(21%). he next four most dominant species were
Dysoxylum richii (10%), Syzygium sp. (7%), Pagiantha
thurstonii (6%), and Myristica castaneifolia (5%) and
contributed to 50% of the dominant trees in the
plot. his plot contained 50 tree species with trunks
at least 5 cm dbh, which is distinctly higher than in
disturbed forests plots (compare Plot 3 above, with 30
species).
Ridge Dakua Forest Type (Primary) (Plot 5). his
forest type was located on a ridge at 425 m elevation.
his forest type can also be encountered in the higher
elevations of lowland vegetation (ca. 400-650 m)
and to some extent in upland vegetation (ca. 650900 m) in Fiji’s high island forests. A total of 162
trees (with dbhs > 5 cm) representing 56 species (see
Appendix 2) were recorded in the plot. his was the
highest species richness recorded for any plot. he
most common tree species in the plot was Baccaurea
pulvinata with 24 individuals. his was followed
by Vietchia vitiensis (21), Myristica castaneifolia
(9), Aglaia sp. (8), Dysoxylum sp., Planchonella sp.,
Cyathea hornei and Rapanea sp. (with 7 individuals
each). hese eight species make up 60% (90
individuals) of all trees observed in the plot.
A unique feature about this forest type is that
it is dominated by Agathis vitiensis (32% relative
dominance with only two trees). his is a giant of
the forest. It tends to occur in patches and the small
40
numbers present are augmented by the huge size of
the individual trees. While not unusual, having at
least eight trees growing close to each other with an
average dbh of 100 cm (range 81-134 cm) is now a
rarity in Fiji’s forests. he next four dominant species
Geissois ternata (7%), Metrosideros collina (7%),
Myristica castaneifolia (5%) and Elattostachys falcata
(5%) in addition to A. vitiensis make up more than
half of the dominant trees observed in the plot.
Both Geissois ternata and Metrosideros collina are
typically upland and/or cloud forest vegetation species
in Fiji and their presence in this lower elevation forest
is not unusual. All ive vegetation plots had between
49 and 59 trees (average 52 trees/plot) with dbhs
greater than 15 cm, so there was little diference in
this aspect.
Higher elevation vegetation and forest types
he vegetation types observed at elevations above
500 m were a mix of upland and/or cloud forest
vegetation types. Due to the short period spent in
the area no quantitative analyses were carried out.
At a summit close to Camp 3, the overall vegetation
was generally stunted with trees growing on average
from 2-4 m tall. In the more exposed areas, the
sprawling fern Oleandra neriiformis was dominant.
Tree trunks and branches were covered with mosses,
epiphytic orchids and ferns. Some common tree
species associated with cloud forest that were
observed included Podocarpus affinis and Syzygium
c.f. effusum (primary indicator species for cloud forest
systems especially the latter with its distinctive drip
tips). Other common tree species observed included
Vietchia vitiensis, Fagraea beteroana, Podocarpus
neriifolius, Spiraeanthemum sp., Alstonia montana,
Metrosideros collina, Cyathea alata, Scaevola floribunda
and Freycinetia urvilleana.
Further up the ridge prior to coming out of the
mountain range, the vegetation is typical of that
found in upland vegetation. Tree/shrub species
growing here are relatively stunted with heights
of up to 8 m. Here, as in the cloud forest, the tree
trunks and branches were covered with epiphytic
mosses, lichens, orchids, Lycopodium and ferns.
Various Selaginella spp., sprawling and/or scandent
ferns like Pteris spp., Gleichenia spp., and Elastostema
australe dominate the ground cover. Some of the
more shrubby trees species like Ficus theophrastoides,
F. vitiensis, several Psychotria spp. and Dysoxylum spp.,
were also observed.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Botanical Survey of the Nakauvadra
Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Vines and epiphytes
Vines, both trunk climbers (which ascend directly up
a trunk by means of adventitious roots that adhere to
the bark) and lianas (woody vines that twine around
tree trunks and branches to ascend into the canopy),
are characteristic of tropical rainforest. Epiphytes
were common in the LRV, but were limited by the
relative dry conditions in those areas compared to
the wetter conditions in the higher elevation forest.
Some epiphytes grew on tree trunks in the forest
shade, but most of them were found on branches
high up in the canopy (and were diicult to spot
from the ground) where they get more sunlight. he
number of vines recorded in the LRV plots averaged
14.5 per plot, and the number of ferns averaged 16
per plot. Ground cover was not signiicantly diferent
in the diferent sites with ground ferns being the
predominant terrestrial group.
Alien plants
What was notable about the Nakauvadra forested
area surveyed was the small number of weedy alien
species found overall in areas above 400 m elevation.
Most of the alien plants found here were deliberately
recently introduced by locals and included fruit
trees like Mangifera indica, Bambusa simplex, Musa
x paradisica, and Artocarpus altilis which has become
naturalized. hose that are considered aboriginal
introductions include Aleurites molucana, Citrus spp.,
Cordyline fruticosa and Codiaeum variegatum which
have become naturalized.
Most of the invasive plant species encountered
were observed along creek embankments and
currently used traditional tracks and include some
of the more serious invasive species like Spathodea
campanulata, Lantana camara, Arunda donax,
Mikania micrantha and Clidemia hirta.
DISCUSSION__________________________________
he negative impacts of regular (seasonal) burning
of vegetation on valleys, slopes and ridges next to
villages and farming communities along the base of
the Nakauvadra Range over the years has seen the
steady upward receding of the ire-line almost to the
top of the Nakauvadra Range. his has resulted in the
complete transformation of the native vegetation to
talasiga grassland. Eighty alien species were recorded
in the talasiga vegetation type including invasive plant
species like Spathodea campanulata, Albizia lebbeck,
A. saman and Leucaena leucocephala. his grassland is
a major pathway for alien plants into the more intact
forest of the mountain range. It is also a ire hazard
especially during a prolonged dry season.
Few alien weedy species were found in the
forest, the most common of which were Blechum
pyramidatum (blechum), Crassocephalum crepidioides
(thick head), Mikania micrantha (mile-a-minute
vine), Clidemia hirta (Koster’s curse), and Piper
aduncum. Most of the weedy species, with
the exception of P. aduncum were found in the
streambeds where sunny conditions prevail during
much of the day, rather than in the shady forest.
One of the worst weedy species in Fijian forests is
Spathodea campanulata (African tulip-tree) but only
few individuals of this species were observed, mostly
on the sunny margins of streams. It was much more
common in plantations and fallow areas around the
local villages and settlements. Most of these alien
weedy plants were brought in by horses used by the
locals for hunting and ishing.
he forests in Nakauvadra are relatively pristine,
judging by the form of the vegetation (closed canopy
forest) as well as the relative absence of alien weeds.
he two Slope Forest Types (Plots 2 and 3) are
secondary forest and register on average the lowest
total tree basal area (38,000 sq. cm). his indicates
that the trees in general are smaller (trunk size) when
compared to the trees observed in the Creek Valley
(Plot 1) and Ridge Forest Types (Plots 4 and 5)
with the average total basal area of 51,000 sq. cm.
Plot 5 is described as a Dakua Forest because several
very large trees of the species Agathis vitiensis were
found growing close to each other on this ridge.
Two other forest types were also observed in areas
not quantitatively assessed where a single species
clearly dominated the area. hese can be refereed to
as Metrosideros (Vuga) Forest and Pandanus (Vadra)
Forest.
Despite the pristine outlook of the overall
forest, the higher elevation section (> 450 m) of the
mountain range has forest systems that are clearly
primary forest. he overall 34% endemicity of the
lora during the survey indicates that the plant
communities in the area are typical of that found in
Fiji’s native forests (Watkins 1994). If the grassland
lora was excluded, endemicity would have been
much higher with a lora comparable to that observed
in highly diverse (native plants) areas like Waisoi
in Namosi (Tuiwawa 1999) and Wabu in Naitasiri
(Tuiwawa 2004).
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
41
Chapter 1
he endemic D. roseiflora in the family
Degeneriaceae is common on Taveuni and Vanua
Levu but is rare and restricted to the drier high
altitude forests on Viti Levu. Prior to this survey it
was only previously recorded from the Mt Evans
Range in the Ba Province, Viti Levu. N. integrifoliola
has only been collected once by Horne in 1878
from Bua, Vanua Levu. his species currently has
an eastern distributional limit of New Guinea, the
Bismarck Archipelago and Queensland (Smith 1981).
his disjunct range is extraordinary. For it to be found
in the Nakauvadra Range (only the second recording
for Fiji in the past 100 years) not only reairms its
existence and conirms its range extension in Fiji but
augurs well “unusual” lora of the Nakauvadra Range.
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS________
Future surveys
he following future recommendations can be made:
1) More specimen collections are needed as
only a very small area was accessed during this
survey. he checklist of vascular species present is
only preliminary and probably includes only 70%
of the species present. he orchids are much underrepresented, since many of the species are restricted to
the tops of trees, where they were not observed (Fiji
has about 150 native species of orchid). Epiphytic
ferns are also under-represented for the same reasons.
2) More plots need to be sampled at much higher
elevations (cloud forest) and further away from
known traditional highways. he more diicult
groups proved to be the genera Psychotria (76 native
species in Fiji), Syzygium (28 native species), and the
Lauraceae family (34 native species).
3) It is particularly necessary that future
collections be carried out at least four months away
from November to allow for seasonal variation.
Conservation Recommendations
range should be carried out as soon as possible.
REFERENCES_________________________________
Brownlie, G. 1977. he Pteridophyte lora of Fiji. In:
Cramer, J. (ed.) Beihefte zur Nova Hedwigia, Vol.
55. A. R. Gantner verlag KG, Germany.
Mueller-Dombois, D. and R. Fosberg. 1998.
Vegetation of the Tropical Paciic Islands.
Springer- Verlag, New York.
Smith, A.C. 1979. Flora Vitiensis Nova - A new
lora of Fiji (Spermatophytes only). Vol. 1. Paciic
Tropical Botanical Garden, Lawai, Kauai, Hawaii.
_____. 1981. Flora Vitiensis Nova - A new lora of
Fiji (Spermatophytes only). Vol. 2. Paciic
Tropical Botanical Garden, Lawai, Kauai, Hawaii.
_____. 1985. Flora Vitiensis Nova - A new lora of
Fiji (Spermatophytes only). Vol. 3. Paciic
Tropical Botanical Garden, Lawai, Kauai, Hawaii.
_____. 1988. Flora Vitiensis Nova - A new lora of
Fiji (Spermatophytes only). Vol. 4. Paciic
Tropical Botanical Garden, Lawai, Kauai, Hawaii.
_____. 1991. Flora Vitiensis Nova - A new lora of
Fiji (Spermatophytes only). Vol. 5. Paciic
Tropical Botanical Garden, Lawai, Kauai, Hawaii.
Tuiwawa, M. V. 1999. he Flora, Ecology and
Conservation of the Botanical Biodiversity
of Waisoi and the Southeastern Slopes of the
Korobasabasaga Range in Namosi Province, Fiji.
Unpublished MSc. hesis, University of the
South Paciic, Suva , Fiji.
Tuiwawa, M. V. and A. Naikatini. 2004. Flora
Report. In: Morrison, C. (ed.) Baseline Flora and
fauna survey of Wabu Forest Reserve, Naitasiri,
Fiji Islands, 16th – 22nd November 2003.
SPRH Biodiversity and Ethnobiodiversity Report
4/2004. South Paciic Regional Herbarium,
Institute of Applied Sciences, University of the
South Paciic.
Watkins, A. J. 1994. A biogeographic database for
seed plants of Fiji: A preliminary
communication. S. Pac. J. Nat. Sci. 14: 75-96.
Because of the relative pristine nature of the forests
in the Nakauvadra Range and the fact that this is
one of the last remaining intact forest systems on
the drier side of Viti Levu, every efort should be
made to work with the local villagers and relevant
Government institutions to preserve these forests.
Local community awareness on the negative impacts
of uncontrolled burning and access into the mountain
42
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Chapter 2
Herpetofauna of the Nakauvadra Range,
Ra Province, Fiji
Nunia Thomas
Team members: Miniroti (Narara Village), Kalaveti
Ravulo (Vatukacevaceva Village)
SUMMARY
A total of 11 frog and reptile species were documented from the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province,
Fiji representing approximately 33% of Fiji’s terrestrial herpetofauna. his included three frog
species, four skinks and four geckoes. In addition, skin sheds from the snake Candoia bibroni were
also observed. All species were observed in relatively low abundances.
Four of the species are endemic to Fiji (Platymantis vitianus, P. vitiensis, Emoia concolor and E.
parkeri). With the exception of the introduced cane toad (Bufo marinus), and the mourning gecko
(Lepidodactylus lugubris), the remaining species are native to Fiji and the Paciic.
his survey documented the only known extant population of P. vitianus on Viti Levu. his frog
species was thought to have been extirpated from Viti Levu in the last 20 years and as such this result
highlights the conservation signiicance of the Nakauvadra Range for herpetofauna biodiversity.
Several threats to herpetofauna in the area were identiied and are discussed in light of potential
mitigation measures and future research.
INTRODUCTION
Fiji is home to 32 species of terrestrial herpetofauna: three frogs (two endemic species), three
iguanas (two endemics), four snakes (two endemics), 10 geckoes (two endemics) and 10 skinks (six
endemics). Over forty percent of these are endemic, with possibly more (new) endemic species to be
described in near future.
Despite the wide geographic distribution of Fiji’s native terrestrial herpetofauna, their
conservation status is unknown. With the exception of the Fiji crested iguana (Brachylophus
vitiensis) and the Fiji ground frog (Platymantis vitianus), there has been no recent assessment of the
population status of any of Fiji’s terrestrial herpetofauna other than accounts from opportunistic
surveys conducted by visiting biologists and through baseline biodiversity surveys (Bustard 1970,
Gibbons 1981, 1984, Zug 1985, 1991, Zug and Ineich 1983, Harlow and Biciloa 2001, Worthy
2001, Morrison 2003a, 2003b, 2003c, Kuruyawa et al. 2004, Morrison et al. 2004, Morrison 2005,
homas, 2006; Harlow et al. 2007). To date, no speciic herpetofauna surveys have been conducted
in the Naukauvadra Range and consequently, its herpetofauna diversity is poorly known.
he primary aim of this survey was to identify the herpetofauna species found in the Nakauvadra
Range using a combination of nocturnal and diurnal active surveys. In addition, we also wanted to
identify potential threats to the herpetofauna community in the area.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
43
Chapter 2
Reason for the RAP Survey
In April 2008, the Fiji Water Foundation and
Conservation International (CI) entered into a
three-year grant agreement to protect the natural
resources of Viti Levu, Fiji. One of the three
key objectives of the Fiji Water Grant involves
technical assessments and community consultations
to facilitate conservation initiatives within the
Yaqara and Nakauvadra watersheds. As part of
the implementation of this objective, one of the
key components was to gain an understanding of
the existing environment in the Yaqara Valley and
conduct an ecological baseline assessment of the
Nakauvadra Range.
METHODS AND SITE DESCRIPTION
Site descriptions
Site 3: Volivoli Creek, Nabiya and Toluwalu Streams
– Base Camp 1 (Map 3)
Nabiya Stream and Toluwalu Stream are at the
headwaters of Volivoli Creek; Base camp 1 (Camp 1)
was located along the stream bank at the conluence
of the two streams. A notable feature of the Toluwalu
and Nabiya streams, and Volivoli Creek was the
decrease in water level each consecutive day during
the expedition. Toluwalu Stream and Nabiya Stream
were at least 20 m wide, with an average depth of 1.5
m when lowing with water. Dry sections of the two
stream beds (approximately 100 m in length) were
intermittent with non-stagnant water pools which
appeared to ilter water under the soil onto the next
pool (Plate 1). Undisrupted water low along the
Volivoli Creek began again approximately 100 m
downstream from Camp 1.
he sections of Volivoli Creek downstream of
Camp 1 were dominated by big boulders (Plate 2)
within the streams whilst the (dry) sections: Nabiya
Stream and Toluwalu Stream were dominated by
cobbles, pebbles and exposed bedrock (Plate 3). Both
the vegetation and stream characteristics displayed
ideal herpetofauna habitats observed in other parts of
Fiji: good riparian vegetation cover, big boulders, tree
branches overhanging the river, fallen tree branches
along the river bank, dense canopy cover within the
forest, ground cover dominated by saplings, rotting
wood, leaf litter, trees with large crevices and tree
trunks and branches covered with epiphytes.
44
Sites 3a and 3b were surveyed on two dates:
20th and 21st November 2008. Sites 3c and 3e were
surveyed during the diurnal surveys on the 19th,
20th, 21st and 22nd November, 2008 (see Appendix
3 for site locations).
Sites 5, 6 and 7: Vuniqesa Stream and dried up
tributary – Base camp 2 (Map 3)
he width of Vuniqesa Stream was at least 10
m. Unlike Nabiya Stream and Toluwalu Stream,
Vuniqesa Stream did not have many dry sections
(Plate 4). Base camp 2 (Camp 2) was located adjacent
to a steep rile and pools section of the river, with
vegetation overhanging the stream. Sections of the
river 100 m upstream (Site 5a) and downstream of
Camp 2 (Site 5c) were dominated by big boulders.
Interestingly, the section just above 100 m upstream
of Camp 2 was relatively lat and open, and clear
of the dense vegetation observed around the base
camp. Both the vegetation and stream characteristics
displayed ideal herpetofauna habitats (as described
above for Camp 1).
Sections of the river bank (behind Camp 2,
Site 5c) surveyed at night were probably ephemeral
creeks, as they were water-logged and quite swampy.
Diurnal surveys were conducted inland, along ridges
and upstream along the Vuniqesa Stream (Sites 6 and
7).
Survey methods
Opportunistic diurnal and standardized nocturnal
visual encounter survey methods were used to assess
the biodiversity of the herpetofauna and ensuing
threats in the survey sites.
Skinks are more likely to be seen during day,
particularly during hot and sunny conditions.
Diurnal surveys were thus conducted along trails
enroute to Camps 1 and 2, along stream edges, and
in forest habitats surveyed by other survey teams
in the expedition: vegetation and lora survey sites,
mammal (native and invasive) survey sites, and
freshwater fauna survey sites (Map 3). he surveys
began at 08:00 and ended at 17:00 each day from
the 19th – 22nd; 26th and 27th of November, 2008.
he team had a minimum of two searchers at any one
time.
Frogs and geckoes are active and more visible at
night. Standardized 2-hour nocturnal surveys with
a minimum of three observers at any one time were
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Herpetofauna Survey of the
Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
conducted along the two major streams (Nabiya
Stream and Vuniqesa Stream – two surveys) and their
tributaries (Toluwalu Stream and a dried up tributary
- two surveys) over four nights: 19th – 20th; 22nd
– 23rd November, 2008 (Map 3). he standardized
surveys usually commenced at around 20:00, ending
two hours later. Captured ground and tree frogs were
given a frog number (NT#) and toe-clipped. he
toe-clips were stored in ethanol vials for future DNA
analysis.
Environmental variables such as air temperature
o
( C), water temperature (oC), weather conditions
(rain) and cloud cover (%) were taken at the
beginning and end of each survey. Habitat
characteristics and other basic ecological and
biological information of herpetofauna found
were recorded. Observations on possible threats
to herpetofauna species and populations were also
noted.
RESULTS
Environmental Variables
Weather conditions were ine with occasional showers
and heavy downpour during the last three days of
the expedition. Average air and water temperatures
recorded for the nocturnal surveys were both 22.5
oC.
Species Diversity and Abundance
General herpetofauna
Eleven species were observed throughout the survey
Table 2.1: List of herpetofauna species observed in the Nakauvadra Range from 18 – 27th November, 2008.
Latin Name
Common Name
Fijian Name
Status
Bufo marinus
Cane toad
Boto ni valagi, Boto karokaro
Introduced and invasive
Platymantis vitianus
Fiji ground frog * a
Boto ni Viti, Dreli
Endemic
Platymantis vitiensis
Fiji tree frog * a
Ula
Endemic
Emoia concolor
Fiji green tree skink
Mokosari
Endemic
Emoia cyanura
Brown-tailed copper-striped
skink
Mokosari
Native
Emoia impar
Blue-tailed copper-tailed
skink
Mokosari
Native
Emoia parkeri
Fiji copper headed skink a
Mokosari
Endemic
Gehyra vorax
Giant forest gecko
Moko kabi, Boliti
Native
Frogs
Reptiles
Gehyra oceanica
Oceanic gecko
Moko kabi
Native
Lepidodactylus lugubris
Mourning gecko
Moko kabi
Introduced and invasive
Nactus pelagicus
Skink-toed gecko
Native
* Denotes species listed as threatened under IUCN (2006)
a Denotes species listed as endangered under Fiji’s list of 50 endangered species (2008) (NatureFiji- MareqetiViti, www.natureiji.org).
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
45
Chapter 2
gecko (Gehyra vorax), Oceanic gecko (G. oceanica)
and Skink-toed gecko (Nactus pelagicus); and two
are introduced and invasive species: Cane toad
(Bufo marinus) and Mourning gecko (Lepidodactylus
lugubris).
Herpetofauna species were present at all the sites
(Table 2.2). Almost all species were found at both
major river systems: Volivoli and Vuniqesa, except
for the introduced gecko L. lugubris which was only
found on Wainibe Stream, about 20 mintues from
(Table 2.1), including two frogs, one toad, four
skinks, and four geckoes (captured and identiied).
Two shed snake skins (possibly Candoia bibroni) were
also observed.
Four of these are endemic to Fiji: Fiji ground
frog (Platymantis vitianus), Fiji tree frog (P. vitiensis),
Fiji copper headed skink (Emoia parkeri) and the
Fiji green tree skink (E. concolor); ive are native:
Blue-tailed copper-striped skink (E. impar), Browntailed copper-striped skink (E. cyanura), Giant forest
Table 2.2: List of herpetofauna species observed in the Nakauvadra Range, Fiji, from 18 – 27th November, 2008.
B. marinus
E. concolor
2
E. cyanura/ E.
impar
2
3
1
1
1
6
7
Track 3: Base camp 2 to
Upstream Vuniqesa
2
6
1
12
E. parkeri
1
2
G. vorax
1
1
N. pelagicus
2
12
3
G. oceanica
2
2
2
1
L. lugubris
1
1
P. vitianus
9
6
3
P. vitiensis
2
1
5
2
18
11
25
2
2
Vunisea Village. he lizards E. cyanura, E. parkeri and
G. vorax were only found around Volivoli but not at
Vuniqesa; E. impar and G. oceanica were only found
around Vuniqesa but not at Volivoli.
Despite having an equal number of standard
survey nights, more frogs were found around Volivoli
Stream (Sites 3b and 3d) than around Vuniqesa
Stream (Sites 5a and 5c). here were more P. vitianus
46
4
1
4
5
2
E. impar
Total
8
Uluisuvani
5
Track 2: Base camp 2 to
Narara
4
Vuniqesa
3
Wainibe
3
Total
Nabiya
2
Volivoli/ Nabiya/
Toluwalu
1
Va’ava’a Ridge
Site
Track 1: Vatukacevaceva
to Base Camp 1
Species
1
18
10
1
1
65
found around Volivoli Creek (Nabiya Stream and
Toluwalu Stream); but more P. vitiensis encountered
around Vuniqesa Stream, particularly along the
ridges, during the day.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Herpetofauna Survey of the
Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
ANNOTATED LIST OF HERPETOFAUNA SPECIES
Frogs
Eighteen P. vitianus and three P. vitiensis were
observed during the standard 2-hour surveys. Five
out of the ten P. vitiensis captured during the diurnal
surveys were not measured.
Snout-vent lengths (SVL) for the twenty three
P. vitianus and P. vitiensis measured were variable,
ranging from 26.8 - 76.9 mm and 18.7 - 33.7 mm,
respectively (Appendix 4). Frog weights ranged from
2 - 41.9 g for P. vitianus and from <0.5 - 2.5 g for P.
vitiensis. One gravid female P. vitianus was captured
(NT# 22).
All three species of anurans (Plate 5a-c) were only
active at night, with occasional encounters of tree
frogs (P. vitiensis) and cane toads (B. marinus) during
the day. he ground frogs, P. vitianus, were observed
on all four of the survey nights (Table 2.2); tree frogs
and cane toads were observed on only two of these
Table 2.3. Number of individuals observed or captured for each species at different times of the day in the Nakauvadra Range, Fiji.
Species
Total
7am - 9am
B. marinus
E. concolor
3
E. cyanura/E.
impar
2
10am - 12pm
1pm - 3pm
7pm - 9pm
9pm - 11pm
1
1
2
2
1
1
5
2
E. impar
11
1
E. parkeri
2
1
G. oceanica
G. vorax
12
3
2
1
2
1
2
L. lugubris
1
N. pelagicus
1
3
P. vitianus
16
P. vitiensis
Total
6
7
5
2
3
22
6
26
nights.
he ground frogs (P. vitianus) and B. marinus were
only observed within and along the stream banks and
their tributaries whilst P. vitiensis were found both
along streams and further inland along the ridges.
Platymantis vitianus. he irst captured P.
vitianus was found after it responded to calls by the
observer (whistle) over a period of ive minutes on
the irst night of survey. Hereafter this method, in
addition to looking for eyeshine in frogs, was used.
he (small) calling P. vitianus were found on tree
roots or sapling branches with dense vegetation cover
whilst the larger P. vitianus found via eyeshine were
sitting on rocks and boulders along the stream bank.
Calls of the P. vitianus were heard every night,
4
2
18
10
4
65
particularly along the dry sections of the stream bed
and further inland from the stream where the sound
of the water low could not drown out the calls.
Platymantis vitiensis. here were no P. vitiensis
calls heard during the surveys. Fiji tree frogs (P.
vitiensis) encountered during the day were captured
from their diurnal retreats (in leaf axils of epiphytes:
climbing pandanus [Freycinetia sp.]; birds nest ferns
and orchids). Individuals captured at night were
usually found on the leaves of epiphytes and tree
saplings.
Bufo marinus. Cane toads (B. marinus)
encountered during the day was also found in their
diurnal retreats: beneath boulders along the river
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
47
Chapter 2
banks. here was a notably low encounter of adult
cane toads; however, several pools along the major
streams were laden with strings of eggs and tadpoles.
Reptiles
Skinks. Skink encounter rates were quite low
(Table 2.2), and were only observed during the day,
particularly between 10am and 12pm (Table 2.3).
Ground skinks E. cyanura and E. impar (Plate 6) were
mainly found foraging on the ground, on boulders,
and fallen tree branches. he high number of E.
impar observed at Site 5b was simply due to a change
in the search efort, when the observer opted to sit
along the stream bank for two hours. It was only then
that this species could be observed in relatively higher
abundance (11 individuals).
he arboreal skinks, E. parkeri (Plate 7) and E.
concolor were mainly encountered from 0.2-15 m
above the ground on tree trunks, and branches after
sitting in ideal skink habitat within forested areas for
more than 20 minutes.
Geckoes. he Giant forest gecko (G. vorax – Plate
8) and the introduced and invasive L. lugubris were
encountered during the day, at Site 3c and Site 4
(near Vunisea Village) respectively. hey were both
found beneath tree bark whilst G. oceanica and N.
pelagicus were found on bedrock along the stream
bank at night. A G. vorax was found within Camp 1
on the irst day of survey.
DISCUSSION
All the herpetofauna species found in this expedition
are new records for the Nakauvadra Range, and have
been recorded from sites of similar altitude within
Viti Levu (e.g., Wabu Forest Reserve, Monasavu).
Both Volivoli and Vuniqesa Streams, and their
surrounding habitats appear to support a healthy
herpetofauna population, and possibly more species
than encountered during this survey.
he relatively low encounter rates of herpetofauna
observed in this survey is, as the results suggest, a
relection of the search method used. Two alternative
methods of diurnal surveys were used:
1. Sitting and observing at one site over a certain
period of time; and
2. Conducting opportunistic surveys and
accompanying other taxa survey teams.
48
he former method produced a higher abundance
of one species only (E. impar) but low diversity whilst
the latter produced a higher diversity of species, but
low abundance. A combination of these two methods
in future surveys would undoubtedly provide a more
realistic indication of the diversity and abundance of
herpetofauna in the Nakauvadra Range.
Interesting Species or Genera
Fiji Ground Frogs (P. vitianus)
he discovery of the endemic ground frog, P. vitianus,
[listed as Endangered (EN) under IUCN criteria
(IUCN 2006)] during this survey is the irst record
on Viti Levu in over 20 years. Naturalists working
in Fiji over the past 20 years had widely accepted
that two species: the Fiji ground frog (P. vitianus)
and the megabotoniviti (P. megabotoniviti) had been
consumed to extinction by the introduced mongoose
(Herpestes javanicus) and humans on Vanua Levu and
Viti Levu (Watling and Pernetta 1979, Ryan 2000,
Morley et al. 2004, Morrison et al. 2004, Morrison
2005).
Local herpetologists have in the past ive years
searched for surviving populations of the ground
frogs in likely frog habitats on both Vanua Levu and
Viti Levu. Whilst surveys on Vanua Levu had proved
successful with discoveries of ground frog populations
(Morrison et al. 2004), the Viti Levu surveys into
the Savura, Sovi Basin, Wabu and Tomaniivi Forest
reserves suggested that these frogs had indeed
perished on Viti Levu (Morrison 2003a, 2003b,
2003c, 2004, 2006, homas 2006).
he discovery of this species in the Nakauvadra
Range, and its absence from other less disturbed
sites previously surveyed within Viti Levu (e.g.,
Wabu Forest Reserve, Sovi Basin), suggests that in
addition to being able to co-exist with cane toads,
mongoose and tree frogs, P. vitianus can also survive
in habitats that have been historically modiied or
signiicantly impacted by humans (mainly early Fiji
settlers). Another contributing factor that could be
further investigated is the vegetation and lora of the
Nakauvadra Range in comparison other current Fiji
ground frog sites in Fiji.
he behaviour of the ground frogs in the
Nakauvadra Range is similar to that of the ground
frogs on Viwa Island (Tailevu), Gau Island and
Taveuni Island, in being slightly more naïve and
easier to capture than the ground frogs on Vanua
Levu. he ground frogs on Vanua Levu (Waisali
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Herpetofauna Survey of the
Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Forest Reserve) are evasive and cryptic; usually
jumping away as soon as they have been spotlighted.
he village guides also informed the team that
they do not diferentiate between ground frogs and
tree frogs, using the general term ula. he word ula
means ‘to jump’ in the dialect of the villages around
the Nakauvadra Range. Other villages within the
province of Naitasiri also use this name.
More research will need to be done within the
Nakauvadra Range and in other parts of Viti Levu
to determine why this species persists in the area. It
would be interesting to follow the forest systems to
which Nakauvadra is/ was connected to; previous
records of Fiji ground frogs within Viti Levu have
been made from Naitasiri (1862) and Namosi (1898)
(Graefe 1986, de Marzan 1987).
Fiji Tree Frog (P. vitiensis)
he Fiji tree frog is known to only occur on Ovalau,
Viti Levu and Vanua Levu in Fiji (Osborne 2007).
Its macro- and microhabitat distribution within the
Nakauvadra Range is similar to its distribution in
other parts of Fiji (e.g., Wabu Forest Reserve, Sovi
Basin, Savura Forest Reserve) where they are usually
found along streams, and further inland along ridges.
he Nakauvadra Range and certain parts of Ovalau
and Vanua Levu are the only sites in which tree frogs
and ground frogs co-exist. A comparison of sites on
Vanua Levu, Ovalau and Viti Levu may reveal the
interactions between these two species.
Endemic Skinks (E. concolor and E. parkeri)
he presence of the two arboreal endemic skinks,
E. concolor and E. parkeri is encouraging. he main
diiculty faced when searching for these two skinks
was their distance from the ground – two specimens
were observed up to 15 m above the ground, in a
tree. heir arboreal nature and the dense epiphytes
on the trees often made it diicult to identify them.
Identiication was only possible when using a pair of
binoculars. Using sticky board traps in trees may help
with their capture in future surveys.
Cane toads (B. marinus)
he cane toad (B. marinus) is listed in the Invasive
Species Specialist Group’s (2004) list of 100 of the
world’s worst invasive species (Lowe et al. 2004). Few
adults were encountered during the survey however,
some stagnant pools were illed with numerous
tadpoles and strings of cane toad eggs. he cane
toads may not be a direct threat to the herpetofauna
populations in Nakauvadra, however, it would
be interesting to study their interactions with the
ground frogs and compare with the ground frog-cane
toad interactions on Viwa Island (Tailevu, homas
2007).
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS________
Identiied threats to herpetofauna in the Nakauvadra
Range
Several threats were identiied during the survey:
1. Destruction of both the tree and ground frog
breeding habitats by feral pigs and horses
brought in by pig hunters.
2. he presence of the introduced mongoose
Herpestes fuscus (Plate 9) and rats pose a
potential threat. here is no evidence as yet on
the direct impacts of the mongoose and rats on
herpetofauna populations in the Nakauvadra
Range; and the rediscovery of the ground frog
questions the previously hypothesized negative
impacts of mongoose on the frogs. A more
detailed survey is needed to address this issue.
3. Ground frogs have been consumed by Fijians
in the past. here is a possibility this is still the
case; a traditional knowledge interview with pig
hunters from the surrounding villages could
conirm this.
General recommendations
1. here is a need for more specialized research
on the herpetofauna of the Nakauvadra Range;
particularly to study their ecological role within
the Nakauvadra Range and how this compares
with populations in other parts of Fiji.
2. Improve/increase ield survey methods and
efort. In particular for frog surveys:
a. Establish several long term monitoring
plots or transects to survey the diferent
species, both along the stream banks and
inland.
b. Find out range of frog distribution along
the stream:
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
49
Chapter 2
i. Distance from villages;
ii. Distance along head waters of the
streams;
iii. Perpendicular distance from the stream
bank to determine the range of overlap
between the three species;
c. Interview nearby villages to ind out if
frogs have any signiicant traditional roles;
or if there are any folklore that mentions
frogs.
d. Record and document frog calls; ind out
if females also call as reported in the frogs
on Viwa Island (Tailevu) and Taveuni
(Kuruyawa et al. 2004).
e. Find out where females ground frogs are
laying their eggs.
f. Document the phenology of frogs in the
Nakauvadra Range and compare with
other sites in Fiji.
g. Collect DNA tissue and compare with
other sites in Fiji.
For reptile surveys:
h. As above (a-c, e-g).
i. Surveys to be conducted in areas
undisturbed by survey teams of other taxa.
Skinks can be quite evasive, scrambling
away to hide under leaf litter or boulders
and rocks at the slightest disturbance.
j. he Giant forest gecko (G. vorax) is more
likely to be found under the bark of live
trees rather than dead trees and therefore
future surveys should place more emphasis
on live trees.
k. Binoculars and sticky board traps should
be used for surveying arboreal skinks (and
snakes).
3. Awareness of the importance of the Nakauvadra
Range as a refuge for the Fiji ground frog (P.
vitianus) will also need to be carried out to
local pig hunters and villagers who frequent the
Nakauvadra forest.
REFERENCES_________________________________
Bustard, H. 1970. Turtles and an Iguana in Fiji. Oryx
10: 317-322.
de Marzan, J. 1987. Customs and Beliefs in Upland
50
Vitilevu. Domodomo 5 (3&4): 28-62.
Gibbons, J. R. H. 1981. he Biogeography of
Brachylophus (Iguanidae), Including the
Description of a New Species, B. vitiensis, from
Fiji. J. Herpetol. 15(3): 255-273.
Graefe, E. 1986. Travels in the Interior of the Island
of Vitilevu. Domodomo 4(3): 98- 140.
Harlow, P. S., M. Fisher, M.Tuiwawa, P. N. Biciloa,
J. M. Palmeirim, C. Mersai, S. Naidu, A.
Naikatini, B. haman, J Niukula, and E. Strand.
2007. he Decline of the Endemic Fijian Crested
Iguana Brachylophus vitiensis in the Yasawa and
Mamanuca Archipelagos, Western Fiji. Oryx
41(1): 44-50.
Harlow, P. S. and P. N. Biciloa. 2001. Abundance of
the Fijian Crested Iguana (Brachylophus vitiensis)
on Two Islands. Biol. Conserv. 98: 223-231.
Kuruyawa, J., T. Osborne, N. homas, I. Rounds,
C. Morrison and C. Morley, C. 2004.
Distribution, abundance and conservation status
of the Fijian Ground Frog (Platymantis vitianus).
Unpublished report for the BP Conservation
Programme.
Lowe, S., M. Browne, S. Boudjelas, M. De Poorter.
2004. 100 of the world’s worst invasive alien
species: A selection from the global invasive
species database. he Invasive Species Specialist
Group, Species Survival Commission, World
Conservation Union.
Morrison, C. 2003a. A Field Guide to the
Herpetofauna of Fiji. Institute of Applied
Sciences, he University of the South Paciic,
Suva.
Morrison, C. 2003b. Herpetofauna Report. In:
Morrison, C. (ed) Baseline Fauna and Flora
Survey Wabu Reserve, November 16-22, 2003.
Institute of Applied Sciences, University of the
South Paciic, Suva.
Morrison, C. 2003c. Herpetofauna Report. In:
Morrison, C. (ed) Baseline Fauna and Flora
Survey of the Sovi Basin in Naitasiri 5th – 17th
May, 2003. Institute of Applied Sciences,
University of the South Paciic, Suva.
Morrison, C. 2004. Herpetofauna Report. In:
Morrison, C. (ed) Second Fauna and Flora Survey
of the Sovi Basin, Naitasiri 13th – 20th October,
2004. Institute of Applied Sciences, University of
the South Paciic, Suva.
Morrison, C. 2005. Distribution and Diversity of
Fiji’s Terrestrial Herpetofauna: Implications for
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Herpetofauna Survey of the
Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Forest Conservation. Pac. Sci. 59(4): 481-489.
Morrison, C. 2006. Herpetofauna Report. In:
Morrison, C. (ed) hird Fauna and Flora
Surveyand Establishment of Long-term
Monitoring Plots in the Sovi Basin, Naitasiri
20th – 31st March, 2006. Institute of Applied
Sciences, University of the South Paciic, Suva.
Morrison, C., A. Naikatini, N. homas, I. Rounds,
B. haman, and J. Niukula. 2004. Rediscovery
of an Endangered Frog Platymantis vitianus, on
Mainland Fiji: Implications for Conservation and
Management. Pac. Con. Biol. 10: 237 – 240.
Osborne, T. 2007. Distribution, Abundance and
Phenology of the Fiji Tree Frog (Platymantis
vitiensis) in Savura, Viti Levu, Fiji. Unpublished
M.Sc. hesis. University of the South Paciic,
Suva.
Ryan, P. 2000. Fiji’s Natural Heritage. Exisle
Publishing Limited. Auckland.
Pernetta, J. C. and D. Watling. 1979. he Introduced
and Native Terrestrial Vertebrates of Fiji. Pac. Sci.
32: 223-244.
homas, N. 2006. Herpetofauna Report. In:
Morrison, C. (ed) Baseline Flora and Fauna
Survey and Establishment of Long-term
Monitoring Plots in Wabu Nature Reserve,
Naitasiri 30th January – 10th February, 2006.
Institute of Applied Sciences, University of the
South Paciic, Suva.
homas, N. 2007. Distribution and Abundance of
the Fijian Ground Frog (Platymantis vitianus)
and the Cane Toad (Chaunus [Bufo] marinus)
on Viwa Island, Tailevu, Fiji. Unpublished MSc.
hesis, University of the South Paciic, Suva.
Tuiwawa, M. and A. Naikatini. 2003. Flora Report.
In: Morrison, C. (ed) Baseline Fauna and Flora
Survey Wabu Reserve, November 16-22, 2003.
Institute of Applied Sciences, University of the
South Paciic, Suva.
Worthy, T. H. 2001. A New Species of Platymantis
(Anura: Ranidae) from Quaternary Deposits on
Viti Levu, Fiji. Palaentology 44(4): 665-680.
Zug, G. R. 1985. A New Skink (Reptilia: Sauria:
Leiolopisma) from Fiji. Proc. Biol. Soc. Wash.
98(1): 221-231.
Zug, G. R. 1991. Lizards of Fiji: Natural History and
Systematics. Bishop Mus. Bull. Zool. 2: 85-86.
Zug, G.R. and I. Ineich. 1993. Review of the
Biology and Morphology of the Fijian Bola
Ogmodon vitianus (Elapidae). he Snake. 23:
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
51
Chapter 3
Preliminary Baseline Survey of the
Avifauna of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra
Province, Fiji
Dick Watling
Team members: Kalaveti Ravulo (Vatukacevaceva
village), with additional records by Alifereti Naikatini
(SPRH) and Vido Senivasa (Fiji Department of
Forestry)
SUMMARY____________________________________________________________________________
his report is of a preliminary baseline survey of the avifauna of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra, Viti
Levu. he report provides observations and comments on the avifauna observed in the study area, as
well as observations from other known surveys from the Range.
A total of 34 bird species were recorded in the surveys, 13 of which were endemic species. Four
were introduced species and the remainder native.
hree of Viti Levu’s globally threatened species were recorded – Long Legged Warbler
(Endangered, auditory record only); Black-faced Shrikebill and the Friendly Ground-Dove which
was quite common. Notable species not recorded included the Masked Shining Parrot and the
Polynesian Starling, though these have both been recorded previously. For birds, the Nakauvadra
Range has the same conservation signiicance as other large forest blocks on Viti Levu.
INTRODUCTION_______________________________________________________________________
he Nakauvadra Range is a forest refuge, completely surrounded by cleared habitats with the
shortest distance to another forest block being approximately four kilometers to the southwest. It
is not a large forest block, approximately 114 km2, and so the avifaunal composition is of interest
in that it may not be large enough to maintain viable populations of species which have large home
ranges and/or are poor dispersers over non-forest habitats. Examples of these are the Masked Shining
Parrot and the Giant Forest Honeyeater. he only previous record of bird observations in the
Nakauvadra Range is Masibalavu (2004).
METHODS AND STUDY AREA___________________________________________________________
Study area and base camps
he study area comprised the area traversed by the survey roads and paths as marked on Map 4. he
team hiked from Vatukacevaceva village to Camp 1 on the conluence of the Nabiya and Toluwalu
Streams which are headwaters of the Volivoli Creek on November 18. We spent three nights at
Camp 1, then hiked down to Vunisea village on November 21. On November 22 we hiked from the
village to Camp 2 on the Vuniqesa Creek. Dick Watling returned to Vunisea village on November
23. Alifereti Naikatini and Vido Senivasa remained at Camp 2 and hiked out to Camp 3 on
52
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Preliminary Baseline Survey of the Avifauna of
the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
November 25. hey spent one night at Camp 3 and
hiked out of the mountain range on November 26 to
Narara Village near Rakiraki town.
Bird observations were categorized according to
three diferent observational methods:
1. Standardised Transects: Observations during timed
transects along paths and river/stream beds – these
are then expressed as encounter rates (number
of individuals observed divided by number of
Field methods
he team enjoyed ine weather throughout the
ieldwork.
Table 3.1. Observation hours in different habitats and for different methods
Observation
Date
Time
18-Nov
0620-0750
Standardised
Transect
Observation Site
Forest
Forest
Incidental
Open
55
165
1145-1615
19-Nov
275
0500-0755
180
0900-1145
165
1145-1500
20-Nov
195
1650-1750
60
0500-0755
175
0845-1205
200
1310-1615
185
1700-1800
21-Nov
0515-0710
60
115
0900-1050
22-Nov
110
1050-1300
70
1400-1440
40
1500-1620
80
0930-1000
30
1000-1200
120
1200-1330
1545-1800
23-Nov
Forest
90
0750-0845
0900-1145
Forest Edge/
Gardens
90
135
0555-0930
1030-1130
1130-1230
Total Obs Time 1195
255
200
345
935
Hours of obs
Time
4.3
3.3
5.8
15.6
19.9
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
53
Chapter 3
standardised observer hours, Masibalavu and
Dutson 2006) ;
– ENDANGERED – when a species is
not Critically Endangered but is facing
a very high risk of extinction in the wild
in the near future;
– VULNERABLE – a species is
Vulnerable when it is not Critically
Endangered or Endangered but is facing
a high risk of extinction in the wild in
the medium-term future;
– NEAR THREATENED – is a subcategory of LOWER RISK category, for
species which are close to qualifying for
Vulnerable; and,
– DATA DEFICIENT – there is
insuicient information to make an
evaluation.
2. Observations during timed periods at an
observation post with a 200o view over the forest;
and,
3. Incidental observations around camp and when
hiking between camps.
A total of 39.8 hours was spent on forest
observations, approximately half of which was
on standardized transects. 5.8 hours was spent in
‘forest edge – garden’ habitats and 3.3 hours in open
country (Table 3.1).
Conservation Signiicance
In the annotated accounts and discussion of
the observations, prominence is given to the
Conservation Signiicance of the species concerned.
Conservation Signiicance is based on the following:
l Endemicity – Single Island, National,
Regional or Regional Near-endemic for those
birds whose distribution is primarily within
the region but which extends to a few islands
or an island group outside the region.
54
l
l
Introduced and naturalized species, some of
these species pose a threat to native species and
generally increase in abundance as a result of
habitat disturbance, especially loss of forest.
National Conservation Status – IUCN’s Global
Status is used wherever a threatened category has
been applied, especially for national endemic
species. However, the majority of species in Fiji
are resident and breed in other Paciic island
countries or even further aield. In such cases the
Global Status does not relect the often difering
status in each country, which is very important
for the countries concerned. To rectify this, two
categories for the conservation status of the
Fijian populations of these birds are used.
l Global hreat Status - according to the `2008
IUCN Red List of hreatened Species’. he
threatened species categories now used in Red
Data Books and Red Lists have been in place,
with some modiication, for over 30 years.
Since their introduction these categories have
become widely recognised internationally,
and the Red List categories provide an
easily and widely understood method for
highlighting those species under higher
extinction risk, so as to focus attention on the
need for or eicacy of existing conservation
measures. A simpliied description of the
categories applicable for this guide are as
follows (refer http://www.redlist.org for a
full description and the annually updated
status):
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION_____________________
– CRITICALLY ENDANGERED
- when a species is facing an extremely
high risk of extinction in the wild in the
immediate future;
Species Recorded
A total of 34 species were recorded in the Nakauvadra
Range, primarily in forest habitats but including
peripheral open habitats. hirteen of these are Fijian
hese follow Watling (2001):
– At Risk - the higher category for birds
considered to be severely threatened in Fiji;
– Conservation Concern – a lower category for
birds whose status is known to be declining,
under threat or very vulnerable because of
small population size, introduced predators or
competitors, or adverse land use practices here
in Fiji.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Preliminary Baseline Survey of the Avifauna of
the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
endemic species (Table 3.2). he composition is
similar to other large forest blocks on Viti Levu –
given the small amount of survey undertaken at
Nakauvadra (this survey and Masibalavu 2004).
Neither the Red-throated Lorikeet (Critically
Endangered) nor the Pink-billed Parrotinch
(Endangered), two of Viti Levu’s most threatened
birds was observed, however, it is not possible to state
that any of Fiji’s forest birds are absent from the
Nakauvadra Range, as not all have as yet been
recorded.
Two species, the Friendly Ground Dove and the
Black-faced Shrikebill are categorized as Vulnerable,
while the Long-legged Warbler categorized as
Endangered was recorded by AN and VS but not by
DW.
No Masked Shining Parrots, Polynesian Starlings
or Fan-tailed Cuckoos were observed during this
survey, however, with the exception of the Fan-tailed
Cuckoo, they had previously been observed in the
Nakauvadra Range by Masibalavu (2004). It was
most surprising not to ind the Masked Shining
Parrot during the survey and it is clearly a very rare
bird in the Nakauvadra Range as Masibalavu only
saw two individuals in 2004. he reason for this is
unclear and it may be that the Nakauvadra forest
block is too small to maintain viable populations of
certain species, this is well worth follow up work. he
Fan-tailed Cuckoo is a secretive bird except when in
song and is rarely recorded but is doubtless present
at low densities. Similarly, the Polynesian Starling is
usually uncommon to rare in the forests of the larger
islands and so is quite often missed on short surveys.
Collared Lory were rare on this survey but there were
no noteworthy trees in bloom i.e. vuga (Metrosideros
sp.) which attract and concentrate these wandering
nectivores.
he presence of a good population of Friendly
Ground Doves (mostly seen rather than heard) is
noteworthy, especially since Masibalavu did not
record them in 2004. Neither did he record Fiji
Goshawks and White-throated Pigeons during his
survey, both of which are likely to be commoner at
the forest edge than in true forest.
here was a real diference in common species
around the two campsites, the Giant Forest
Honeyeater was absent at the Vuniqesa campsite
(Camp 2) but were abundant in the “better” forest at
the Vunilaci campsite (Camp 1). Golden Whistlers
and the Island hrush were also much less common
around the Vuniseqa campsite than the Vunilaci
campsite.
Scarlet Robins, Lesser Shrikebills and Whiterumped Swiftlets were found nesting during the
survey. A ledgling Wattled Honeyeater was also
observed.
CONCLUSION AND CONSERVATION SIGNIFICANCE_
he birds of the Nakauvadra Range are similar in
composition and approximate abundance, and hence
conservation signiicance, to other large forest blocks
on Viti Levu. Diferences between this survey and
that of Masibalavu (2004) can be attributed to the
brevity of both surveys. Further surveys would be
required to determine the presence/absence of such
rare species as the Pink-billed Parrot-inch and the
Red-throated Lorikeet and to conirm the presence of
the Long-legged Warbler. he apparent rarity of
the Masked Shining Parrot is of great interest and
worthy of further study.
he size of the Nakauvadra Range forest and its
complete isolation from other forest blocks makes it
vulnerable to extirpation of species which are poor
dispersers over non-forest habitats and have large
home ranges such as the Masked Shining Parrot and
the Giant Forest Honeyeater. his appears not to
have happened as yet but any further erosion of forest
size or quality will increase the likelihood of this
happening.
REFERENCES_________________________________
Masibalavu, V. 2004. Birds of the Nakauvadra
Range. Report 27, Birdlife International IBA
Programme. Suva.
Masibalavu, V. and G. Dutson. 2006. Important Bird
Areas in Fiji: Conserving Fiji’s Natural Heritage.
Birdlife International, Suva
Watling, D. 2001. Guide to the Birds of Fiji and the
Western Paciic. Environment Consultants Fiji,
Suva.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
55
Chapter 3
Table 3.2. Land and Freshwater Birds of Viti Levu with those Species Observed at Nakauvadra.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
56
Common Name
Scientiic Name
Paciic Black Duck
Reef Heron
White-faced Heron
Fiji Goshawk
Paciic Harrier
Peregrine Falcon
White-thoated Pigeon
Spotted Turtle-dove
Friendly Ground-dove
Barking Pigeon
Many-coloured Fruit-dove
Golden Dove
Collared Lory
Red-throated Lorikeet
Masked Shining Parrot
Fan-tailed Cuckoo
Barn Owl
White-rumped Swiftlet
White-collared Kingisher
Polynesian Triller
Red-vented Bulbul
Island hrush
Fiji Bushwarbler
Long-legged Warbler
Anas superciliosa
Egretta sacra
Ardea novaehollandiae
Accipiter rufitorques
Circus approximans
Falco peregrinus
Columba vitiensis
Streptopelia chinensis
Gallicolumba stairii
Ducula latrans
Ptilinopus perousii
Chrysoenas luteovirens
Phigys solitarius
Charmosyna amabilis
Prospeia personata
Cacomantis flabelliformis
Tyto alba
Aerodramus spodiopygia
Todiramphus chloris
Lalage maculosa
Pycnonotus cafer
Turdus poliocephalus
Vitia ruficapilla
Trichocichla rufa
N
N
RI
N
N
N
N
I
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
I
N
N
N
Streaked Fantail
Slaty Monarch
Lesser Shrikebill
Black-faced Shrikebill
Rhipidura spilodera
Mayrornis lessoni
Clytorhynchus vitiensis
Clytorhynchus nigrogularis
N
N
N
N
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Origin
Endemicity
hreat Status
E
RE
E
RE
E
E
E
ES
V
CE
NT
RE*
E
E
E
RE*
E
RE
E
V
Preliminary Baseline Survey of the Avifauna of
the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Encounter Rate (this
survey; standardised
transect, forest only)
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.05
0.00
0.00
0.10
Encounter Rate
(Masibalavu 2004)
Abundance (combined Comment (observations of this
surveys)
survey)
0
0
0
0
0.17
Not observed
Observed at forest edge only
Not observed
R
U
0
U
0.85
2.61
0.30
2.36
0.05
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
2.26
0.60
1.41
0.00
1.31
2.21
0.00
0
1.91
0.35
1.74
0.61
0
0.2
0
0
1.13
0.43
0.95
0.17
0.69
1.48
0
C
V
F
C
F
0.70
0.95
0.60
0.10
0.95
0.95
0.09
0.26
U
C
F
C
U
C
C
Observed in Open Area only
Not observed
Not observed
Not observed
Not observed
Feathers only recorded
Observed at forest edge
Not observed by DW; but heard
by AN/VS
C
C
U
U
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
57
Chapter 3
Common Name
Scientiic Name
Origin
Endemicity
Myiagra vanikorensis
Myiagra azureocapilla
Petroica multicolor
Pachycephala pectoralis
Zosterops explorator
Zosterops lateralis
Myzomela jugularis
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
RE*
E
E
Foulehaio carunculata
Gymnomyza viridis
N
N
RE*
E
Erythrura pealii
Erythrura kleinschmidti
Amandava amandava
Aplonis tabuensis
Acridotheres tristis
N
N
I
N
I
E
ES
32
Vanikoro broadbill
Blue-crested Broadbill
Scarlet Robin
Golden Whistler
Fiji White-eye
Silvereye
Orange-breasted Myzomela
Wattled Honeyeater
Giant Forest Honeyeater
Fiji Parrotinch
Pink-billed Parrotinch
Red Avadavat
Polynesian Starling
Common Mynah
33
34
Jungle Mynah
Fiji Woodswallow
Acridotheres fuscus
Artamus mentalis
I
N
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
KEY
hreat Status
E
V
RE*
E
Grey Shading - Species known from Viti Levu but not recorded during the Nakauvadra
forest survey
Origin: N - native
I - introduced
Endemicity: E - Fiji endemic
ES - Endemic to a single island (and ofshore islets)
RE - Regional endemic (F, T, S, AS, Tu, N, To, W & F)
RE* - Regional endemic as above with outliers in other neighbouring island nations
Threatened status: IUCN Red List 2008 CE - Critically Endangered; E - Endangered; V - Vulnerable; NT - Near
hreatened
Encounter Rate: Number of individuals recorded on standardised transects (i.e. in forest only) divided by 19.9 - the
number of hours spent in these transects (Masibalavu & Dutson, 2006)
Abundance: V = very common if encounter rate >2.0; C = Common 0.8 - 2.0; F = Fairly common 0.4 - 0.8; U
= Uncommon 0.1 - 0.4; R = Rare <0.1>0. Based on (Masibalavu & Dutson 2006) and averaged for
this survey and Masibalavu (2004).
58
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Preliminary Baseline Survey of the Avifauna of
the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Encounter Rate (this
survey; standardised
transect, forest only)
0.40
0.60
0.70
1.36
3.67
0.00
1.46
Encounter Rate
(Masibalavu 2004)
Abundance (combined Comment (observations of this
surveys)
survey)
0.26
0.61
0.78
0.35
2.08
0.17
1.30
U
F
F
C
V
R
C
3.16
1.96
2.6
0.43
V
C
0.10
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.09
0
0
0.26
0
R
0.00
0.00
0
0.35
U
R
Observed at forest edge only
Not observed
Not observed
Not observed
Observed only in villages and
farmland
Observed only in open habitats
Not observed on standardized
transect
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
59
Chapter 4
Bats of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra
Province, Fiji
Alivereti Naikatini
Team members: Jone Niukula (National Trust of
Fiji), Senivalati Vido (Fiji Department of Forestry),
Tama I Ratu (Vatukacevaceva village)
SUMMARY____________________________________________________________________________
his survey is probably one of the irst bat surveys to be carried out in the Nakauvadra Range. hree
main survey techniques were used: mist nets and harp traps, bat detector and general observations.
Only three species of bats were recorded: Pteropus tonganus, P. samoensis and Emballonura
semicaudata. he latter two species are listed in the IUCN Red List as Near hreatened and
Endangered respectively. No roost of any of the bat species was recorded within the area covered
during the survey. More surveys are needed to locate possible roosting sites and monitor the
presence of other bat species that forage within the area.
INTRODUCTION_______________________________________________________________________
here are ifteen species of mammals native to Fiji, of which six are terrestrial (bats belonging to
the order Chiroptera) and nine are marine (whales belonging to the order Cetacea) (IUCN 2007).
here are fourteen non-native species of mammals present in Fiji, all of which are terrestrial and
have been introduced to Fiji in the last 3000 years since the arrival of humans (Pernetta and Watling
1978). his survey focussed on the native bat species present in the Nakauvadra Range.
To date there has been no record of terrestrial mammal research conducted in the Nakauvadra
Range area. Fiji’s native bats are poorly studied, yet this group should be of high conservation
importance as they include an endemic monospeciic genus (Mirimiri acrodonta) and several near
endemic species. Additionally, Fiji’s bats play an essential role as seed dispersers, pollinators of
lowers and in controlling nocturnal insect populations in rainforest and other terrestrial ecosystems
(Manueli 2001, Palmeirim et al. 2007).
Some of the previous work on bats in Fiji includes a collecting trip in 1990–1991 by the
Australian Museum, the results of which are published in Flannery (1995); work by Dr. Jorge
Palmeirim (Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal) in 2000-2001 (Palmeirim et al. 2007); and studies on
Pteropus samoenis by Dr. Ruth Utzurrum (Department of Wildlife and Marine Resources, American
Samoa, Pagopago) in 2002. he work by Palmeirim and the Australian Museum provide good
baseline data for bat research in Fiji.
he main objectives of this survey were to:
a) produce a checklist of the bat species found in the Nakauvadra Range;
b) focus on the rare and endangered species and their habitats; and
c) gather data on species distribution, diversity and abundance.
60
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Bats of the Nakauvadra Range,
Ra Province, Fiji
METHODS AND STUDY AREA____________________
hree main methods were used to survey the bat
fauna of Nakauvadra:
1) Mist
Mist nets
netsand
andharp
harptraps,
traps;
2) Bat
Bat detectors
detectorsand,
and;
3) General
General observation.
observation.
he location of sites and surveys are shown on Map
5.
Mist nets and harp traps
A 12 x 2.7 m mist net was used to trap larger fruit
bats and a harp trap was used to trap smaller bats.
he use of nets and harp traps was mainly to verify
the identity of the bat species. he mist net and
harp trap were used to sample bats in lowland forest
(< 400 m elevation) and upland cloud forest (> 500
m).he mist net and harp trap were only set up
for use from dusk to dawn and were regularly
checked every hour.
Bat detector
A Tranquillity II bat detector was used to detect
the presence of microbats in caves..It was also used
during the night around the camp by walking a 50 m
non-linear transect to detect foraging microbats.
General observations
We made general observations while walking through
and around the forest during the day and hiking
from one camp to another. Any species of fruit bat
observed were noted.
RESULTS
____________________
Species found
Only three
three species
speciesofofbats
bats(50%
(50%ofofthe
thebat
batspecies
species
found in Fiji)
Fiji) were
wererecorded
recordedduring
duringthe
thesurvey.
survey.
hey are presented
presentedin
inTable
Table4.1
4.1along
alongwith
withtheir
their
conservation status
conservation
statusasasassessed
assessedbybythe
theIUCN
IUCN.
(International
Unionspecies
for Conservation
of Nature).
he
most common
observed was
P. tonganus
he most
observedfor
wasa P.period
tonganus
with
morecommon
than 200species
bats recorded
of
withhour
morejust
thanbefore
200 bats
recorded
a period
of one
one
sunset
from afor
clearing
along
hour just before
from
a clearing
Vuniqesa
Creek sunset
at Camp
2 on
24th ofalong
November.
Vuniqesa
Creek
Camp that
2 onhour
24/11/09.
All thein
All
the bats
seenatduring
were lying
bats seen
that hour
were
lying the
in from
the
from
the during
south, from
an area
outside
Nakauvadra
south,
from
an
area
outside
the
Nakauvadra
Range.
Range. P. samoenis was rare and during the eight days
P. samoenis
and
during
the eight
daysthe
in the
in
the ield was
onlyrare
four
were
observed
during
day.
ield only
were observed
during
the day.
Onlythe
Only
threefour
E. semicaudata
were
detected
during
three E. semicaudata were detected during the survey.
survey.
Table 4.1. Checklist of species of native bats found in the Nakauvadra Range and their IUCN status
Common Name
Insular lying fox
Scientiic Name
Pteropus tonganus
IUCN Status
Lower risk
Samoan lying fox
Pteropus samoensis
Polynesian sheathtailed bat Emballonura semicaudata
Effectiveness of different ield methods
Harp traps and mist nets were generally unsuccessful
in capturing bats during the survey period (Table
4.2). he bat detector was able to detect the sheathtailed bat Emballonura semicaudata which can be
detected between 30 – 35 KHz (Palmeirim pers.
comm.). he fruit bats Pteropus tonganus and P.
samoensis were easily observed during the survey
during general observations.
Near hreatened
Endangered
DISCUSSION
Notes
Common, but no roost
within Nakauvadra
Rare, no roost recorded
Only noted using bat
detector, no observed or
caught
_________________
Pteropus tonganus
his was the most common species recorded in
Nakauvadra however, we did not ind a roost. he
local guides also did not recall recording any big
roosts in the area surveyed. All the P. tonganus
observed were noted to be lying in from the south.
his could represent a major roost which should be
located as it has an impact on the vegetation of
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
61
Chapter 4
Table 4.2. Summary of areas where mist net, harp trap and bat detector transects were located and their results
Date
Site
Elevation
19/11
20/11
Takina
Vunilaci (Camp 1)
756m
305m
No bats
No bats
Method
Mist trap
No bats
No bats
23/11
Vuniqesa (Camp 2)
270m
No bats
No bats
24/11
25/11
Vuniqesa (Camp 2)
Rock Lookout
270m
610m
No bats
No bats
No bats
No bats
the Nakauvadra Range. Some Pteropus bat species
are known to forage from about three to close to
eight kilometres from their camps (Markus and Hall
2004). his could be a factor causing P. tonganus
roosts to be outside Nakauvadra as they need larger
areas to forage but this need to be further studied.
Much of the vegetation system of the Nakauvadra
Range is still well intact and could support roosts of
P. tonganus. Future studies of the area should aim to
encompass a much larger study area in order to locate
roost sites.
Pteropus samoensis
Only four individuals were observed which is
relatively low. However, studies done on this species
in American Samoa have shown that it is rarer
than P. tonganus with the density ranging from 118 bats/km² (Brook 2001). his species roosts in
smaller colonies and prefers to roost in primary forest
compared to P. tonganus which tends to forage in
agro-forest and cultivated forest areas as well (Banack
1998). he presence of P. samoensis indicates that the
forest on the Nakauvadra Range is still well intact.
here is a need for future surveys to estimate the
population size and identify roost sites of this
species within the Nakauvadra Range.
Emballonura semicaudata
he absence of caves from the Nakauvadra area
surveyed means that there are fewer chances of
insectivorous bats being found as they only roost
in caves (Tarburton 2002). However, three bats of
this species were noted using the bat detector which
indicates that they ly in to forage at Nakauvadra.
62
Harp Trap
Bat detector
No bats
Emballonura
semicaudata
Emballonura
semicaudata
No bats
No bats
he closest known roost is in the Yasawa Islands
which is more than 50 km away (Palmeirim et al.
2007). his species, like P. samoensis, prefers to
forage in well forested areas (Esselstyn et al. 2004).
here could be caves in the Nakauvadra area which
we did not ind in this survey and future surveys
of this species should make the location of caves a
priority.
One problem encountered during this survey
was that the majority of the locals had mistaken this
species for the White-rumped swiftlet (Aerodramus
spodiopygius), a bird which also nests in caves
and sometimes also under large boulder and clif
overhangs. Sites which the locals had marked out on
the map where caves are found were actually clif and
large boulder overhangs where the White-rumped
swiftlets were nesting (Map 5).
CONCLUSIONS AND CONSERVATION
RECOMMENDATIONS
____________________
Conservation signiicance of the Nakauvadra range
for bats
he conservation signiicance of the bats of the
Nakauvadra Range is diicult to determine at this
stage as there is still more research and surveys that
need to be carried out. Only three species were
recorded, two of which are listed as vulnerable and
endangered. No roosts for any species were located
during this survey and there is a need for more
surveys spread over the Nakauvadra Range to locate
existing roosts and bat colonies. At this stage there is
a need to conserve this area because (i) bats use it as a
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Bats of the Nakauvadra Range,
Ra Province, Fiji
feeding ground and (ii) there are still large tracts of
intact native vegetation cover. his is similar to the
indings of other large forest areas surveyed including
the Sovi Basin and the Wabu Reserve.
Future work
More surveys need to be conducted to locate the
presence of any roosting colonies of each bat species
and also to monitor population size of the diferent
bat species foraging in the Nakauvadra Range. Since
no roosts for any of the three species were located
during this survey it was impossible to carry out
density or abundance estimates for bats in the area.
Other species like the Fiji blossom bat (Notopteris
macdonaldi) could also be present in the Nakauvadra
Range. here is also a need for community awareness
and education in the villages and communities
surrounding the Nakauvadra Range. People need
to know the diference between the White-rumped
swiftlets and the Polynesian- sheath tail bats and
how to tell whether bats are present in a cave.
Local communities also need to be taught about
the importance of bats and their ecological role,
something which has been neglected in many Fijian
communities where bats are not seen as important
species, but only a nuisance.
REFERENCES
the Black lying-fox (Pteropus alecto) in the
urban landscape of Brisbane, Queensland.
Wildl. Res. 31(3): 345- 355.
Palmeirim, J. M., A. Champion, A. Naikatini, J.
Niukula, M. Tuiwawa, M. Fisher, M. YabakiGounder, S. horsteinsdottir, S. Qalovaki, S.,
and T. Dunn. 2007. Distribution, status and
conservation of the bats of the Fiji Islands. Oryx
41(4): 509- 519.
Palmeirim, J. M. pers. comm. Dr Jorge M.
Palmeirim, Department of Biologia Animal /
Centro de Biologia Ambiental, Faculdade de
Ciencias, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749- 016,
Lisbon, Portugal. (email: Palmeirim@fc.ul.pt)
Pernetta, J. C. and D. Watling. 1978. he introduced
vertebrates and native vertebrates of Fiji. Pac.
Sci. 32(3): 223-244.
Tarburton, M. K. 2002. Demise of the Polynesian
Sheath-tail Bat Emballonura semicaudata in
Samoa. Micronesica 34: 105-108.
____________________
Banack, A.P. 1998. Diet selection and resource use
by Flying foxes (Genus Pteropus) Ecology 79(6):
1949-1967.
Brook, A. P. 2001. Population status and behaviour
of the Samoan Flying Fox (Pteropus samoensis)
on Tutuila Island, American Samoa. J. Zool.
254: 309-319.
Esselstyn, J. A., G. J Wiles and A. Amar. 2004.
Habitat use of the Paciic Sheath-tail bat
(Emballonura semicaudata) of the Aguiguan,
Mariana Islands. Acta Chiropt. 6(2): 303-308.
Flannery, T. 1995. Mammals of the South-West
Paciic and Moluccan Islands. Cornell
University Press, New York .
IUCN 2007. 2007 IUCN Red List of hreatened
Species. Available at <www.iucnredlist.org>.
Accessed on 10 November 2007.
Manueli, I. 2001 (February 10). Bats in danger of
extinction. he Fiji Times, p.3.
Markus, N and L. Hall. 2004. Foraging behaviour of
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
63
Chapter 5
mammal Fauna
fauna of
The invasive
Invasive Mammal
of the
the
Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Jone Niukula
Team members: Sevuloni Vanavana (Narara
Village)
SUMMARY____________________________________________________________________________
Using a combination of standard traps and opportunistic surveys, we recorded six invasive mammal
species in the Nakauvadra Range. hese included two rat species (Rattus exulans and R. rattus), one
mongoose (Herpestes fuscus), domestic horses (Aquus caballus), goats (Capra sp.) and domestic dogs
(Canis familiaris). Although most of these species were observed in very low densities, they were
found throughout the area surveyed including fairly secluded and hard to reach regions on mountain
ridges and denser forest.
he inding of a decomposing mongoose that resembled the skull size of H. fuscus was the most
interesting ind as its occurrence in Fiji was not conirmed until after the Nakauvadra survey (C.
Morley pers. comm., Feb. 2009) however, its distributional range is yet to be veriied.
Due to the size of the area and accessibility, eradication of most of these invasive mammal species
is not feasible. However it may be possible to increase reforestation rates of the native lora through
the removal and/or exclusion of goats from the area. Any remedial activities undertaken in the area
will need to be done with the consent and co-operation of the local communities who use the forests
as part of their sustainable livelihoods.
INTRODUCTION_______________________________________________________________________
“…humans rank among the most successful invasive mammal species….. he human invasion did
not reach many Paciic Ocean islands until 1,000 to 2,000 years ago….. other mammal species
accompanied the human invasions. Besides livestock like sheep, goats, cattle, pigs and horses, there
were stowaway species like rats. Later, predators like the mongoose were deliberately introduced to
help control the rats.” (Anon. 2009).
he many trails through the Nakauvadra Range (many of which are still used today by pig
hunters and ishermen) have opened up pathways for intrusion of various introduced and invasive
species over many years in the past and continuing today. his is complimented by negative animal
husbandry (animals allowed to graze freely over open country) and agriculture practices (deliberate
burning of grassland) that occurs on its periphery.
Introduced mammal species in Fiji
Rodents are a major contributor to the extinction and endangerment of native animals and plants.
his has been observed in many parts of the world. Apart from wiping out native populations by
predation, rodents are also known to be major carriers of diseases and to distribute alien and invasive
species which can be very destructive to indigenous ecosystems.
here have been four species of rodents recorded in Fiji; Paciic Rats (Rattus exulans), Norway
Rats (R. norvegicus), Ship Rats (R. rattus) and the House Mouse (Mus musculus).
64
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
The invasive mammal fauna of the
Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
he Paciic and Ship rats are common forest
dwellers, consuming a wide range of prey, including
many invertebrates such as earthworms, centipedes,
larvae of some butterlies and moths, ants, beetles,
weevils, cicadas, snails, spiders, lizards and birds; and
plant items such as leshy fruit, seeds, lowers, stems,
and roots. hey may also prey on the eggs and young
of forest birds. (Sherley 2000)
One mongoose species was introduced to
Fiji in the 1800s, Herpestes javanicus (Gorman
1975). he Small Indian Mongoose (H. javanicus)
population in the Fiji Islands was established by an
independent introduction of a single founding pair
from the Calcutta region in 1883, after an attempted
introduction in 1870 failed (Gorman 1975). his
species is also responsible for the extinction of many
species due to its mobility and ability to enter ground
burrows and climb trees (personal observation).
he presence of a second mongoose species was
highlighted by Craig Morley in 2007 (Morley et al.
2007). It had earlier been reported as H. edwardsi
by Paddy Ryan (1988) but was conirmed to be H.
fuscus in 2009 (D. Simberlof and C. Morley pers.
comm., Veron et al. in press). “Activity of this species
in Fiji has not been studied, but it has been observed
Fig. 5.1.Fig.
(a) 5.1a
First rat
traprat
transect
setup andsetup
(b) Second rat trap transect
First
trap transect
in the morning and evening… and is believed to be
nocturnal.” (Veron et al. in press).
Survey objectives
l To
To determine
determinethe
thediversity
diversityofofrodents
rodentsininthe
the
Nakauvadra
Range
Nakauvadra Range;
l To investigate
investigatethe
thepresence
presenceofofother
othernotorious
notorious
invasive mammals
mammalssuch
suchasasmongoose
mongooseand
andcats
cats;
andpropose
proposehabitats
habitatsand
andareas
areasforfor
l Investigate
Investigate and
more detailed
detailed studies
studies.
A presence-absence survey was conducted for invasive
mammals in the area; with a standardized study
conducted for rodents. Investigation for evidence
of existence for mongoose, cats, and other mammals
was opportunistically carried out.
METHOD_____________________________________
Rodent Survey
A basic method of capture and data collection was
conducted as outlined in Cunningham and Moors
(1983) “A Guide to the Identiication and Collection
of New Zealand Rodents”. Metal snap traps were
Fig. 5.1b Second rat trap transect
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
65
Chapter 5
used as they have been proved to be more efective
due to their camoulaging nature and snapping
tension in similar environments.
Trapping data were recorded according to the
“Trap data and Abundance” Sheet from Cunningham
and Moors (1983); i.e., noting the presence of a
rat, sprung and unsprung traps and the presence
and absence of baits. hese data would provide an
estimate as to the density of rodents in the area.
Measurements of captured rats were carried out using
vernier calipers and a 1 kg (x 5g) scale. he species
and sex were determined for each captured animal
along with an estimate of its age (based on body size).
he area covered by the invasive mammal surveys are
shown in Map 6.
Transect
Transect 1
Fifteen traps were set for two nights (19th & 20th
November), beginning from beside the irst base
camp (Camp 1), on the conluence of the Nabiya and
Volivoli Creeks and running north up the slope at the
back of the camp (Fig. 5.1a). Traps were baited with
Table 5.1. Captured record sheet for Transects 1 & 2. (Record codes; S/BP - Sprung/Bait Present, OK/BP - Unsprung/Bait present
Trap #
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
Transect 1
Night 1
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
Transect 2
Night 2
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
RAT
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
Night 3
OK/BP
S/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
RAT
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
Night 4
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
RAT
OK/BP
OK/BP
OK/BP
Table 5.2. Details for captured rodents
Transect
1
2
2
66
Night
2
3
4
Trap #
10
5 right
8 right
Species
Rattus exulans
R. rattus
R. rattus
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Sex
Male
Male
Male
Weight
50g
135g
27g
The invasive mammal fauna of the
Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
roasted coconuts and positioned well under hanging
boulders, large tree bases and below fallen logs, over
a total distance of 280-300 m between 300-350 m
a.s.l.
Transect
Transect 22
Eleven pairs of traps were set, two in each location
marked on Fig. 5.1b above, for two nights (23rd &
24th November) using the same bait as for Transect
1. Traps were set on an uphill track from behind the
second base camp site (Camp 2), climbing from an
elevation of 240 m a.s.l. to close to 300 m a.s.l, on
the eastern bank of Vavituka Creek.
Five key elements of the skull (Nellis 1989,
DeBlase and Martin 1984) were measured (Table
5.3); including the Condylo-basal length, the length
of a skull that is measured from the anterior points
of the premaxilla to the posterior surfaces of the
occipital condyles (Fig. 5.2) and serves as a common
indicator of body size (Simberlof et al. 2000), and
hence species identity in this case. hese data present
the larger size of this newly conirmed invader for
Table 5.3. Five key measurements in identifying mammal species (taken from Deblase and Martin 1984)
Entity
Condylo-Basal Length
Skull width
Skull height
Zygomatic breadth
Maximum diameter of the upper
canine
Description
From a line connecting the posteriormost projections of the occipital
condyles to the prostheon
Greatest width across the braincase
posterior to the zygomatic arches
From the foramen magnum to the
attachment point between the sagittal and nuchal crests (or the mediam
contact point between the squamosal
and parietal bones)
Greatest distance between the outer
margins of the zygomatic arches
Maximum breadth of one of the two
upper canines
Fiji; H. fuscus (S. Meiri pers. comm. April 2009, D.
Simberlof pers. comm. April 2009) simply described
as a large red/brown species.
Measurement
79.9 mm
30.0 mm
18.2 mm
42.9 mm
5.0 mm
Fig. 5.2. Condylo-basal length on skulls (taken from DeBlase
and Martin 1984)
Goats Mammals
Other
Goats (Capra sp.) are a key obstacle to the re-growth
Goats
of
native forest in grassland-dominated areas that
Goatsencroached
(Capra sp.)well
are atowards
key obstacle
the re-growth
have
to the to
higher
slopes
of the
native
forest
in
grassland-dominated
areas
Nakauvadra Range. Goats were observedthat
on
haverocky
encroached
well towards
to the and
higher
slopes
the
ridges above
Narara Village
close
to
of the
Nakauvadra
Range.
Goats
were
observed
on
the
legendary
peak of
‘Uluda’.
Goat
scats
were also
the rockyclose
ridges
Narara
Village
andsettlements
close to
observed
to above
the ridge,
above
farming
the legendary
‘Uluda’. Goat scats
were also
between
Nararapeak
and of
Vatukacevaceva
Villages.
observed close to the ridge, above farming settlements
between Narara and Vatukacevaceva Villages.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
67
Chapter 5
Other
HorsesMammals
Domesticated horses (Aquus caballus) in the
Horses
villages and farming settlements on the periphery
Domesticated
horsesRange
(Aquus
the villages
of the Nakauvadra
arecaballus)
used as in
transportation
and
farming
settlements
on
the
periphery
of the
means between villages and into the Nakauvadra
Nakauvadra
Rangehunting
are usedparties
as transportation
forest facilitating
and variousmeans
between
villages
and
into
the
Nakauvadra
forest
traditional practices. hese horses, with strong-minded
facilitating
hunting
parties
and
various
traditional
owners, proved during the surveys that they are
practices.
horses,
withinto
strong-minded
owners,
capable ofhese
reaching
higher
the forest, even
proved
during
the
surveys
that
they
are
capable
of
beyond the current trails.
reaching
higher
into
the
forest,
even
beyond
the
Sticky seed producers such as Bidens spirosae
current
trails. on horse tails demonstrating the
were recorded
Sticky
seed producers
such asof
Bidens
spirosae
were
ability, although
unintentional,
horses
to disperse
recorded
on
horse
tails
demonstrating
the
ability,
alien plant species into the forest, some of which
although
unintentional,
of horses
to disperse alien
may be destructive
to native
species.
plant species into the forest, some of which may be
destructive
to native species.
Pigs
Aside from listening to hunters’ numerous
Pigs
recollections of wild pigs (Sus scrofa) hunting
Aside
from listening
to hunters’
operations,
dug-up cool
restingnumerous
places for pigs were
recollections
of
wild
pigs
(Sus scrofa)
hunting
observed under large hanging
boulders,
lat shady
operations,
dug-up
cool
resting
places
for
were
areas and beside bases of bigger trees. hepigs
only
observed
under
large
hanging
boulders,
lat
shady
time an adult pig was viewed during this survey
areas
and beside
bases
of biggerfortrees.
he only
time
was when
a group
of porters
the survey
team
an
adult
pig
was
viewed
during
this
survey
was
when
displayed their catch while resting just below the
aCamp
group1oftowards
porters Nayaulevu
for the survey
teamalong
displayed
their
Village
Volivoli
catch
while
resting
just
below
the
Camp
1
towards
Creek.
Nayaulevu Village along Volivoli Creek.
Dogs
Dogs
he wild pigs in the Nakauvadra Range attract
he
wildwho
pigs are
in the
Nakauvadra
Range attract
hunters
normally
accompanied
by hunting
hunters
who
are
normally
accompanied
by
dogs (Canis familiaris). In cases similar to hunting
horses,
dogs
In cases
similar
to horses,
dogs (Canis
may befamiliaris).
unintentional
agents
of introduced
dogs
mayplant
be unintentional
agents of introduced
invasive
species.
invasive plant species.
Cats
Cats
Feral cats (Felis catus) were not observed during the
Feral
catus) were
observed
during the
surveycats
but(Felis
are believed
to not
occur
in the Nakauvadra
survey
occur inof
thewildlife
Nakauvadra
forest. but
Catsare
arebelieved
provento
predators
in
forest.
Cats
are
proven
predators
of
wildlife
in many
many countries including Paciic Island nations
countries
PaciicofIsland
leading toincluding
the extinction
manynations
native leading
species.to
the extinction of many native species.
CONCLUSIONS AND CONSERVATION
CONCLUSIONS
AND CONSERVATION
SIGNIFICANCE
_____________________________________
SIGNIFICANCE_______________________________
rat reproduces
successfully
in the in
area
evidenced
Ship
rat reproduces
successfully
theasarea
as
by the capture
of capture
a juvenileofon
Transecton
2. Transect
he
evidenced
by the
a juvenile
Indian
BrownBrown
Mongoose
(Herpestes
fuscus) occurs
2.
he Indian
Mongoose
(Herpestes
fuscus)
in
the
forest
and
may
well
be
co-existing
with the
occurs in the forest and may well be co-existing
Smallthe
Indian
Mongoose
(H. javanicus)
despite the
with
Small
Indian Mongoose
(H. javanicus)
latter’s non-sighting.
he presencehe
of these
ive of
despite
the latter’s non-sighting.
presence
species
poses
a
serious
threat
to
native
wildlife.
hey
these ive species poses a serious threat to native
are
particularly
dangerous
in
island
ecosystems
wildlife. hey are particularly dangerous in island
due to theirdue
impacts
on the
survival
birds
ecosystems
to their
impacts
on of
thenative
survival
and
animals
because
of
their
preying
ability.
As
of native birds and animals because of their the
Nakauvadra
Range
canNakauvadra
be referred toRange
as an island
preying
ability.
As the
can
(it referred
is a highto
mountain
range(itsurrounded
by vast low
be
as an island
is a high mountain
grassland
areas), the
these species
in the
range
surrounded
byimpacts
vast lowofgrassland
areas),
the
area
is
potentially
very
serious.
Consequently,
the
impacts of these species in the area is potentially
impacts
of rats
and mongoose
native wildlife
in
very
serious.
Consequently,
theonimpacts
of rats and
the area may
exacerbated
mongoose
onbe
native
wildlifewhen
in thecompared
area maytobeother
large
forested
regions
in
Fiji.
exacerbated when compared to other large forested
In addition
regions
in Fiji. to the negative impacts of rats
andInmongoose
on the
native
fauna,impacts
goats areofa rats
major
addition to
negative
and
hindrance
to
the
re-growth
of
native
forest
especially
mongoose on native fauna, goats are a major
on the periphery
in the high
rockyforest
and grassland
hindrance
to the and
re-growth
of native
areas of theonNakauvadra
Range.
especially
the periphery
and in the high rocky
and grassland areas of the Nakauvadra Range.
Conservation recommendations
l It would recommendations
be diicult to conduct eradication work
Conservation
for
any
of
species
as use of eradication
the forest and
It would bethese
diicult
to conduct
encroachment
of
the
local
community
is high
work for any of these species as use of the
forest
thereby
increasing of
thethe
chances
of accidental
and
encroachment
local community
is
re-introductions.
Morethe
detailed
surveys
over
high
thereby increasing
chances
of accidental
a
larger
area
(including
those
areas
further
re-introductions. More detailed surveys over
commonthose
use areas
the local
aaway
largerfrom
areathe
(including
areasoffurther
community)
advisable
before
away
from theare
common
use
areaseradication
of the localof
any of these are
species
is seriously
considered.
community)
advisable
before
eradication of
of these
species is seriously
considered.
l any
Potential
reforestation
sites should
be identiied
Potential
reforestation
should
be identiied
in consultation
with thesites
local
communities.
inGoats
consultation
withbethe
local communities.
should then
removed
and excluded
Goats
should
then be
removed
from the
proposed
project
sites.and
heexcluded
removal
from
the proposed
project
he removal
of
of goats
will in itself
lead sites.
to a major
regoats
will
in
itself
lead
to
a
major
re-establishment
establishment of native trees and other lora
ofwithout
native costly
trees and
other lora
without costly
replanting
exercises.
replanting
exercises.
l Local communities should be made aware of
Local
communities
should
be made
aware
the impacts
of invasive
species
on both
localof
the
impacts
of invasive
species on
local
fauna
and lora
and encouraged
to both
reduce
their
fauna
and in
lora
to reduce their
activities
the and
areasencouraged
where possible.
activities in the areas where possible.
Invasive mammals in the Nakauvadra Range
Invasive mammals in the Nakauvadra Range
he Ship Rats (Rattus rattus) and Paciic Rats (R.
he Ship Rats (Rattus rattus) and Paciic Rats (R.
exulans) co-exist in the Nakauvadra forest. he
exulans) co-exist in the Nakauvadra forest. he Ship
68
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
The invasive mammal fauna of the
Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
REFERENCES_______________________________
Anon. 2009. Mammals and Humans: Mammalian
Invasives and Pests. Available at http://www.
answers.com/topic/mammals-and-humansmammalian-invasives-and-pests. Accessed
January, 2009.
Cunningham, D. M., and P. J. Moors. 1983. A guide
to the identiication and collection of New
Zealand rodents. Occasional Publication No.4.
N.Z. Wildlife Service, Department of Internal
Afairs, Wellington.
DeBlase, F. A. and R. L. Martin. 1984. Conservation
database for lorises and pottos. Chapter: health
database. Available at: www.loris-conservation.
org/database/ Accessed March, 2009.
Gorman, M. L. 1975. he diet of feral Herpestes
auropunctatus (Carnivora: Viverridae) in the
Fijian Islands. J. Zool. Lond.175: 273–278.
Meiri, S. personal communication. NERC Centre
for Population Biology Imperial College
London Silwood Park Ascot, Berkshire, SL57PY
UK .
Morley, C. G., P. A. McLenachan and P. J. Lockhart.
2007. Evidence for the presence of a second
species of mongoose in the Fiji Islands. Pac
Cons. Biol. 13: 29-34.
Morley, C. G. personal communication. Department
of Conservation, Kauri Coast Area Oice, 150
Colville Road, Dargaville New Zealand.
Nellis, D.W. 1989. Mammalian Species – Herpestes
auropunctatus. Amer. Soc. Mammal.
Mammalian Sp. 342: 1–6.
Ryan, P. 1988. Fiji’s Natural Heritage. Exisle
Publishing, Auckland, New Zealand.
Sherley, G. (ed). 2000. Invasive species in the Paciic:
a technical review and draft regional strategy.
South Paciic Regional Environment Strategy,
Apia, Samoa.
Simberlof, D., T. Dayan, C. Jones and G. Ogura, G.
2000. Character displacement and release in the
small Indian mongoose, Herpestes javanicus.
Ecology 81(8): 2086-2099.
Simberlof, D. personal communication. Department
of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University
of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996 USA.
Veron, G., M-L. Patou, D. Simberlof, P. A.
McLenachan and C. G. Morley. In press. he
Indian Brown Mongoose, Yet Another Invader
in Fiji. Biol. Invas.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
69
Chapter 6
Observations of terrestrial
Terrestrial
Preliminary observations
gastropods of the Nakauvadra Range,
Gastropods
Ra Province, Fiji
Gilianne Brodie
Team members: Nunia Thomas and Dick Watling
(NatureFiji-Mareqeti Viti) for opportunistic snail
collections
SUMMARY____________________________________________________________________________
Even without dedicated sampling at least ive diferent species of terrestrial gastropod were found.
One species (Parmarion martensi Simroth 1893) is introduced and has documented agricultural pest
and human health associations. All of the other species found are very likely to be unique to Fiji
(endemic) and members of their families from other Paciic Island countries are listed as threatened
on the IUCN Red List. Based on the previously recorded high diversity of terrestrial gastropods in
Fiji, increased sampling efort in wetter conditions would undoubtedly reveal a higher diversity of
both endemic and native species being present.
INTRODUCTION_______________________________________________________________________
he biodiversity of Fiji’s terrestrial, gastropod snails is very high in respect to land area, with
49 native and 160 endemic species reported (Barker 2005). However, despite being of global
signiicance, terrestrial snails in the Paciic Islands are under serious threat (Lydeard et al. 2004).
At least 20 introduced terrestrial-gastropod species are recorded as present in Fiji (Barker 2005),
and so far these do not include two of the world’s worst high-risk invasive snails Achatina fulica
(Bowdich 1822) and Euglandia rosea (Ferussac 1818) (GISD, 2008). hese latter two species are
already a signiicant problem; for biodiversity loss, agricultural production and trade opportunities,
in neighboring Paciic Island countries (Cowie 2008, SPC/LRD pers. comm.).
We need to listen and learn from what has occurred in other regional island states (e.g. Samoa,
French Polynesia and Hawaii) as the risk of extinction of our unique Fijian endemic snail fauna,
from habitat loss and invasive species, is extremely high.
METHODS
______________________________________________________________
Living snails and dead snail shells were collected opportunistically by hand. No targeted surveys
were formally conducted. Snails were generally found in leaf litter during the day or on higher
vegetation or human infrastructure, such as tents, during the night. No targeted nocturnal searches
were made for arboreal species.
Specimens were photographed, measured and preserved for future identiication in 80% alcohol.
DNA samples (small pieces of tail) were also taken from ive living species to facilitate future
investigations of genetic relatedness to (i) populations in other parts of Fiji and (ii) similar snails
being studied in other parts of the Paciic Island region.
70
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Preliminary observations of terrestrial gastropods of
the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Classiications given were determined using
Burch (1962) in combination with Barker (2005)
and Cowie (2008). All of the identiications given
are tentative except for the members of the genus
Placostylus. All specimens will be lodged with the
South Paciic Regional Herbarium/USP Marine
Collections.
RESULTS_____________________________________
At least ive diferent species of terrestrial snails were
recorded (Table 6.1). Of these, two species were
found in relatively large numbers (A3 and A4). A3
is the extremely hardy introduced species Parmarion
martensi Simroth 1893 (Plate 10). A4 is a currently
unidentiied species that most likely belongs to the
family Helicarionidae and is therefore very likely to
be an Fijian endemic.
At least one, and possibly two species of the
genus Placostylus were also found. Members of this
genus in Fiji are also recorded as endemic (see Barker
2005). Only one Placostylus specimen was alive when
captured (Plate 11) but the presence of several dead
shells suggests that the species might be easier to
locate when environmental conditions are less dry.
Living specimens of two another likely endemics (A2
and A5) from the Family Helicarionidae were also
found (Plate 12a & b).
DISCUSSION AND CONSERVATION SIGNIFICANCE_
Considering the known decline in global land snail
biodiversity, and the relevant importance of the
Paciic Island endemic fauna to that biodiversity
(Lydeard et al. 2004), the presence of living
specimens of the Fijian endemic taxa Placostylus and
unidentiied members of the family Helicarionidae,
which is considered to contain at least 18 endemic
species unique to Fiji (Barker 2005), makes the
Nakauvadra Range signiicant in global biodiversity
terms. Both of these taxonomic groups have species
from other regions already listed as critically
endangered on the IUCN Red List (Brescia et al.
2008) and it is well known that threatened Paciic
Island fauna are currently missing from the IUCN
data source.
he presence of at least one introduced species
(Parmarion martensi) in the middle of the forest range
is of considerable concern as such hardy alien species
may be capable of contributing signiicantly to native
species extinction (see Cowie 2008). In addition,
Parmarion martensi is considered to be a vector for
human related illness (Hollingsworth et
al. 2007).
In a report to the Fiji Government Parkinson
(1982) listed six relatively large species of Placostylus
land snails as having potential value as specimen
shells in the commercial shell trade industry (selling
overseas). However, considerable habitat loss in the
last 26 years and a strengthened understanding of the
extinction risk to our unique fauna, due to habitat
loss and invasive species, leads us to a very diferent
view in regards to their conservation value today.
Any use of Placostylus shells as an income source
would need to be very careful assessed via appropriate
protocols (e.g. CITES regulations).
Most terrestrial snails are nocturnally active
because of their need for damp conditions. Targeted
sampling at night or during rainy overcast conditions
would no doubt produce a substantial increase in the
number of species found. Many species are arboreal
(found in trees) and therefore spot-lighting in trees at
night is necessary. Baiting may also be efective
particularly to attract introduced species present.
CONCLUSIONS
Conservation and future research recommendations
he unique nature of Fiji’s land snail fauna, and the
high potential for its irretrievable loss by high risk
invasive species, makes strategic planning for their
long-term conservation vital.
hese goals would be best achieved by:
l Relatively large scale habitat conservation in
areas such as native forest, small islands and areas
with signiicant deposits of limestone (needed
by many terrestrial gastropod species for shell
development).
l Including land snails in a more targeted manner
in future surveys to capitalize on their suitability
as excellent sentinel taxa for ecosystem change.
l Conducting investigations into the human
health risks and feeding habits of Parmarion
martensi to fully assess its potential to impact on
humans and native fauna.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
71
Chapter 6
REFERENCES
Barker, G. 2005. Priorities for additions to the Fijian
protected natural areas network: an assessment
based on complementarity in land snail
assemblages. Unpublished Report prepared
by Landcare Research New Zealand for the
Wildlife Conservation Society, Suva.
Burch, J. 1962. How to know the eastern land snails.
Pictured-keys for determining the land snails of
the United States occurring east of the Rocky
Mountain Range. W.M.C. Brown Company
Publishers, Iowa.
Cowie, R. 2008. Samoan Snail Project. http://www2.
bishopmuseum.org/PBS/samoasnail/. Accessed
December 18, 2008.
Global Invasive Species Database. 2008. http://www.
issg.org/database. Accessed December 18, 2008.
Hollingsworth, R. G., R. Kaneta, J. Sulivan, H.
Bishop, Y. Qvarnstrom, A. da Silva, and D.
Robinson. 2007. Distribution of Parmarion
cf. martensi (Pulmonata: Helicarionidae),
a New Semi-Slug Pest on Hawai‘i Island,
and Its Potential as a Vector for Human
Angiostrongyliasis. Pac. Sci. 61(4): 457-467.
Lydeard, C., R. Cowie, W. Ponder, A. Bogan, P.
Bouchet, S. Clark, K. Cummings, T. Frest,
O. Gargominy, D. Herbert, R. Hershler, K.
Perez, B. Roth, M. Seddon, E. Strong, E. and
F. hompson. 2004. he global decline in
nonmarine molluscs. BioScience 54(4): 321330.
Parkinson, B. 1982. he specimen shell resources of
Fiji. Report prepared for the South Paciic
Commission and the Government of Fiji.
72
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Preliminary observations of terrestrial gastropods of
the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
73
Chapter 6
Table 6.1. Preliminary summary of opportunistically - found specimens on Nakauvadra range.
USP Code
USP5819
Brodie Code
A1
USP5820
A2 (DNA1)
USP5821
A3 (DNA2)
USP5822
A4
USP5823
A5 (DNA4)
USP5824
USP5825
A6 (DNA3)
A7
USP5826
A8 (DNA6)
USP5827
A9
USP5828
74
Species
Family Bulimulidae Placostylus
sp. 1 (adult dead shells only)
Family Helicarionidae
Orpiella sp?
Family Ariophantidae
Parmarion martensi
Family Helicarionidae
(dead shells only)
Orpiella sp?
Family Helicarionidae
(living animals might = A4)
Orpiella sp?
Probably same as A3
Placostylus sp. 2 (shell not
weathered, might be juvenile)
Probably same as A3
Specimen died before living
details recorded
A10 (DNA5) Placostylus sp. Very likely to be a
living A1
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Common Name
Flax shell
No. found & collected
6
1
2
Dead shells common along
track, 7 collected (only one
not weathered)
2
1
1
2
1
Flax shell
1
Preliminary observations of terrestrial gastropods of
the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Body form
Bulimoid shell present dextrally coiled,
aperture edges thickened
Heliform shell present (spire exceptionally
lattened), dextrally coiled
Slug-like, reduced cap-like shell towards
posterior
Heliform shell, dexterally coiled, spire
lattened (thin aperture edge broken)
Size
40-50mm (shell height)
Status
Endemic to Fiji
8mm (shell diameter), 5mm (shell
height)
34mm (crawling length without
tentacles)
8-12 mm (shell height), 10-18 mm
(shell diameter)
Endemic likely but deinately
native
Introduced
Heliform shell, dexterally coiled, spire
lattened (thin aperture edge intact)
10 mm (shell height), 17 mm (shell
diameter)
Endemic likely
Slug - small reduced cap - like shell
Fusiform shape shell
35 mm crawling length
39 mm (shell height), 17 mm (shell
width), aperture edge thin
Kept alive in sealed container for
several weeks
9 mm (shell diameter), 1 mm (shell
height)
50 mm (shell height), aperture edge
thickened
Introduced sp. likely
Fiji endemic
Slug - small reduced caplike shell
Cap - like shell
Bulimoid shell present dextrally coiled
Endemic likely
Introduced sp. likely, extremely
hardy
Unknown
Fiji endemic
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
75
Chapter 7
Freshwater Macroinvertebrates
macroinvertebrates of the
Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Gilianne Brodie
Team members: Ilaitia Finau (Biology, USP/Applied
Science, FIT), Avai Saloma (Vunisea village),
Baravi Thaman (USP, opportunistic collections)
Laboratory Team: Mavis Depaune (USP student),
Dr Alison Haynes (Honorary Fellow, IAS), Pearl
Sharma (USP student), Luse Tareguci (USP
Student), Mondal Lal (USP PG Student) and
Cherrie Whippy (USP) assisted with prawn
identiication.
SUMMARY____________________________________________________________________________
he total species richness of macroinvertebrates found in the four sites sampled was 35 species.
Mayly abundance and caddisly larval diversity were high. hese results are indicative of relatively
“healthy” streams and are as expected for upper catchment streams surrounded by a relatively
“undisturbed” catchment area. he streams also appeared to be in good condition primarily
because the stream bank vegetation (riparian vegetation) is intact; the streams are well-shaded with
high levels of organic debris such as leaf litter. Special eforts should be made to keep the natural
vegetation intact and undisturbed along all stream banks since the overall health of the waterways is
likely to be reliant on the organic matter inputs from the surrounding forest.
No obvious invasive freshwater macroinvertebrates or any cane toad tadpoles were found during
sampling. here were however, obvious signs of invasive weeds in the stream beds particularly in the
lower Volivoli sites sampled. his is of concern as any similar accidental introductions of non-native
freshwater invertebrate species in the future, such as viviparid gastropods, may displace the native
fauna and introduce species capable of acting as vectors for human-related illnesses.
INTRODUCTION_______________________________________________________________________
Freshwater macroinvertebrates are a fundamental component of freshwater ecosystems being
essential for ecosystem function. he assemblages vary depending on environmental variables natural and human induced. It is therefore important to note that this survey was conducted during
“dry” conditions at the very end of the dry season before expected wet season rains began.
Several freshwater macroinvertebrate surveys have been previously carried out in diferent parts of
Fiji (e.g., Cowie 1980, Haynes 1994, 1999, Haynes and Whippy 1997, Boseto 2006, Jenkins et al.
2006). Previous freshwater invertebrate surveys have been also carried out by NIWA (New Zealand)
in the Nakauvadra Range, as part of a Fiji-wide 160 site survey, but data from that exercise is not
readily available. his latter data has however been used to create freshwater invertebrate tools for Fiji
(see Suren, in press a, b).
76
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Freshwater macroinvertebrates of the Nakauvadra
Range, Ra Province, Fiji
METHODS ____________________________________
Field sampling followed methodology adapted from
Suren (in press a, b) in combination with United
States Department of Agriculture Stream visual
assessment protocols (USDA 1998).
Field methods
Study sites
Four study sites were sampled (Map 7). Sites 1, 3 and
4 were sampled along a 100 m length whereas Site
2 was only sampled along a 50 m length because of
limited accessibility to the water course.
Environmental parameters
At each sample site the following parameters were
recorded; GPS location, altitude, low rate, shade
cover, water temperature, time of day, pH, water
clarity, stream width, stream depth, bank vegetation
type, bank condition, organic material present,
substrate type. he irst eight parameters were
recorded once per site while the latter seven were
recorded every 10 m and then “averaged”.
Table 7.1. Comparative summary of environmental parameters recorded at each study site.
Parameter
Grid Position
Stream Site 1
Volivoli A
S17o27’34.5;
E178o06’015
278
0.25
70
22.0
Morning
8.07
100%
2.8 m
Altitude (m)
Flow rate (m/s)
Shade coverage (%)
Water temperature (Co)
Time of day
pH
Water Clarity
Stream width (average
active channel)
Stream width (av. stream 16.5 m
bed)
Stream depth (average)
Medium (< 0.8 m)
Bank vegetation
Tall trees, native
forest
Bank Condition
Stable - rocky but
weeds present
Stream Site 2
Volivoli B
S17o27’35.7;
E178o06’03 65
229
2.33
80-85
22.2
Afternoon
8.29
100%
3.1 m
Stream Site 3
Natoluwalu
S17o27’16.5;
E178o05’59 6
289
0.62
85
22.8
Morning
7.55
100%
3.24 m
Stream Site 4
Nabiya
S17o27’19.59;
E178o05’49 55
331
0.14
90
24.0
Afternoon
7.38
100%
2.2 m
12.7 m
13.6 m
12.8 m
Medium (< 0.8 m)
Ferns & weeds
Very low (< 0.2 m)
Large trees left bank,
ferns on other side
Relatively stable
vegetated/soil. Stones
and tree roots.
Low (< 0.5 m)
Weeds and native
vegetation
Relatively stable
- 6 metre straight
bank on right,
gentle slope on
left
Dead leaves, some
brown “ilm”
algae
Small to medium
rocks
Stable either solid
rock or stones
Organic Material Present A lot of dead leaves Some green “ilm”
algae
Dead leaves, some
green “ilm” algae
Dominant substrate
type*
Gravel, small to
medium rocks
Gravel, medium
rocks
Medium rocks, large
boulders
* small rock = < 15 cm, medium rock = < 50 cm, large rock = > 50 cm, boulder = > 1 m
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
77
Chapter 7
Invertebrate sampling
sampling
Invertebrate
Invertebrate fauna was sampled within the water
(riles, runs and pools) by selecting 10 liftable sized
rocks and vigorously brushing the surface of each
with a soft brush while a ine- mesh net was held
down stream. Additional samples were also taken
in pools; from the water surface using a hand held
ine-mesh sweep net, and from the sides of larger
boulders by hand. Within each site the samples from
all habitats were combined into one sample. Some
additional invertebrates were also collected
opportunistically outside of the site areas (= “others”
column in Table 7.2). All samples were preserved in
80% ethanol for transport back to the laboratory.
references: Choy (1984), Haynes (in progress, 2001),
Short (2004), Suren (in press b) and Hawking
(2007).
RESULTS ____________________________________
parameters
Environmental parameters
A comparative summary of the environmental
parameters recorded for each site is shown in Table
7.1. All sites were relatively similar in respect to
water temperature, pH, shading and substrate type.
However the sites difered substantially in respect to
low rate and water depth. he higher altitude sites,
i.e., Sites 3 and 4, had less low and less available
water. he higher low rate in Site 2 was the result
of several additional water sources (each seemingly
small on the land surface) entering the main stream
downstream of Site 1.
sorting and identiication
identiication
Laboratory sorting
Invertebrate ield samples were examined and sorted
under a dissecting microscope in the laboratory at
the University of the South Paciic Laucala Campus.
Identiications were made using the following
Table 7.2. Summary of invertebrate taxa and abundance found
Taxa
Insecta
Mollusca
Crustacea
Platyhelminthes
Nematomorpha
Arachnida
Annelida
Total
78
Ephemeroptera
Coleoptera
Hemiptera
Odonata
Lepidoptera
Orphoptera
Trichoptera
Diptera
Unknown
Gastropod
Site 1
Volivoli
A
157
6
53
10
19
1
4
11
7
22
290
Site 2
Volivoli
B
572
7
8
5
100
12
32
2
1
3
13
755
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Site 3
Natoluwalu
Site 4
Nabiya
Other
Total
2
2
21
10
33
1
1
23
8
18
1
11
130
5
6
1
48
32
1
29
1
3
4
133
2
1
5
1
10
735
4
13
88
26
1
200
46
6
100
18
44
1
4
28
1318
Freshwater macroinvertebrates of the Nakauvadra
Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Invertebrates
Abundance
A total of 1318 individual invertebrates from 35
diferent species were found at all sites (Table 7.2,
Appendix 5). hese were divided by higher taxon as
follows: Insecta (84.8%), Mollusca (7.6%), Crustacea
(1.7%), Nematomorpha (0.08%), Platyhelminthes
(3.4%), Arachnida (0.3%), Annelidia (2.1%). he
most abundant taxa were larvae of the mayly
Psuedocloeon sp. followed by the damselly Nesobasis
spp.
here was a strong diference among sites in
that several taxa, particularly maylies, increased in
abundance where stream low rate was higher and
where the stream contained more water (i.e., greater
average depth).
Species richness
richness
Of the 35 species found 27 (65.7%) were insects.
he most species-rich order of insects was the
caddislies (Order Trichoptera) with eight diferent
species. he damselly genus Nesobasis (insect Order
Odonata) probably contains several species but these
are not easily separated.
Functional feeding groups
Overall, the macroinvertebrates identiied were a
relatively even mixture of the four broad categories of
macroinvertebrate feeding group; grazers, shredders,
ilter feeders and predators (Table 7.2).
DISCUSSION _________________________________
Stream health
Generally the fauna found, particularly the high
abundance of mayly and high species richness of
caddisly larvae, is indicative of relatively “healthy”
streams (Hawking 2007). he lower numbers of
these taxa at the higher altitude sites i.e., Site 3
(Natoluwalu Stream) and Site 4 (Nabiya Stream) are
most likely the result of there being less water above
ground at the end of the dry season. he forested
streams sampled are likely to be heterotrophic, that
is they reply on debris from the surrounding forest as
their energy base (see Cowie 1980).
Human food species
he abundance of the freshwater long-arm prawn
species Macrobrachium cf. latidactylus (hallwitz
1891) [ura] was not adequately sampled by the
methods employed in this survey however, our
opportunistic sampling suggests that the species is
relatively abundant.
Non-human food species
Although the majority of faunal biodiversity found
in this survey consists of very small animals, their
feeding habits and functional diversity means that
they are a very important part of the overall food
web. For example these macro
invertebrates may be
macroinvertebrates
essential bird, ish or prawn food and play a vital role
in the break down of organic materials (e.g. leaf
litter). he macroinvertebrates
macro invertebrate grazers also have a
signiicant inluence on algal biomass. In short, the
presence of these non-food species is vital for healthy
streams and overall ecosystem function (Suren, in
press a, b).
Comparison to previous macroinvertebrate studies
in Fiji
he total species richness of 35 species is similar
to the 38 species found by Haynes (1999) in the
unlogged Wainikovu Creek. However, the study by
Haynes extended over a 3 year period and separated
out six individual damselly species of the genus
Nesobasis. he macroinvertebrate biodiversity of the
current study (35 species) is considerably higher than
the macroinvertebrate biodiversity (four crustacean
species) recorded by Boseto (2006) in the Sovi Basin.
his is because of a diferent focus and sampling
methodology.
Invasives and human health
No obvious invasive freshwater macroinvertebrates or
any cane toad tadpoles were found during sampling
however there were obvious signs of invasive weeds
in the stream beds particularly in the Volivoli sites
below the base camp. his is of concern as similar
accidental introductions of invasive invertebrates such
as viviparid gastropods may introduce species capable
of acting as vectors for human-related illnesses.
he opportunistic discovery of a large freshwater
nematomorphan horsehair worm [wa-lutu-mai-lagi]
was unexpected however, the fact that it has a local
name indicates it is not uncommon. he larvae of
this species are parasitic but are not known to infect
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
79
Chapter 7
humans, the normal host being insects (Ruppert et al.
2004).
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ________
he macroinvertebrate biodiversity ratios found (i.e.
high mayly and caddisly larvae) are as expected
for upper catchment streams surrounded by native
forest with a relatively “undisturbed” catchment area.
However, there is evidence of invasive weed species
along the stream beds which implies there is strong
potential for similar introductions of invasive
freshwater fauna.
Eforts should be made to reduce pathways for
introduction and spread including:
l Restricting
horse
access
Restricting
horse
access
Keeping
camp
streams
access
l Keeping
thethe
useuse
of of
camp
streams
andand
access
tracks
a minimum
tracks
toto
a minimum
Controlling
entry
human
related
waste
l Controlling
thethe
entry
of of
human
related
waste
e.g.
chemicals
or
rubbish,
into
streams
e.g. chemicals or rubbish, into streams
he streams sampled appeared to be in good
condition primarily because the stream bank
vegetation (riparian vegetation) is intact and the
streams are well-shaded with high levels of organic
debris such as leaf litter. Special eforts should be
made to keep the natural vegetation intact and
undisturbed along all stream banks since the overall
health of the waterways is likely to be reliant on
organic matter inputs from the surrounding forest.
REFERENCES
Boseto, D. 2006. Freshwater invertebrate and
vertebrate surveys. In: Morrison, C. (ed).
hird Baseline lora and fauna survey and
Establishment of Lon-term Monitoring Plots in
the Sovi Basin, Naitasiri, 20-31 March, 2006.
Available from Institute of Applied Sciences,
University of the South Paciic, Suva, Fiji.
Choy, S. 1984. On the freshwater Palaemonid
prawns from the Fiji Islands (Decopoda,
Caridea). Crustaceana 47: 269-277.
Cowie, B. 1980. he Fiji Aquatic Insect Survey MayNovember, 1980. Environmental Studies Report
No. 9, Institute of Natural Resources, University
of the South Paciic, Suva, Fiji.
Haynes, A. 1994. he efects of development on
80
Fijian island freshwater invertebrates. Mem.
Qld. Mus. 36: 87-91.
Haynes, A. 1999. he long-term efects of forest
logging on the macroinvertebrates in a Fijian
stream. Hydrobiologia 405: 79-87.
Haynes, A. 2001. Freshwater Snails of the Tropical
Paciic Islands. Institute of Applied Sciences,
University of the South Paciic, Suva, Fiji. ISBN
982-01-0422-X.
Haynes, A. (in progress). Freshwater Insects of Fiji’s
Streams and Rivers. Institute of Applied
Sciences Identiication Guide, University of the
South Paciic, Suva, Fiji.
Haynes, A. & Whippy, S. 1997. he Invertebrate and
Vertebrate Fauna in the Sabeto River. Pages
9-10 and Appendix 4. In: Tuvatu Gold Mine
Project Environmental Impact Assessment water
Quality and Fauna Study. Institute of Applied
Sciences, University of the South Paciic,
Environmental Studies Report 91.
Hawking, J. 2007. Information for the identiication
of Australian aquatic invertebrates. Available at
http://www.mdfrc.org.au/bugguide/index.htm
Jenkins, A., D. Boseto and K. Koto. 2006. Aquatic
fauna and water quality of ive river catchments
in Macuata Province, Vanua Levu, Fiji. Report
by Wetlands International- Oceania.
Ruppert, E.E., R. S. Fox and R. D. Barnes. 2004.
Invertebrate Zoology, a Functional Evolutionary
Approach. (7th Edition). homson, Belmont.
Short, J. 2004. A revision of Australian river prawns
Macrobrachium (Crustacea: Decapod:
Palaemonidae). Hydrobiologica 525: 1-100.
Suren, A. In press a. PAC-SHMAK: he Fijian
Stream Health Monitoring and Assessment Kit.
Instruction Manual. New Zealand National
Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research
Ltd (NIWA), Christchurch, New Zealand.
Suren, A. In press b. Freshwater Invertebrates of Fiji:
An Identiication Guide. New Zealand National
Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research
Ltd. (NIWA), Christchurch, New Zealand.
United States Department of Agriculture. 1998.
Stream Visual Assessment Protocol. National
Water and Climate Center Technical Note 99-1.
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Chapter 8
Insects of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra
Province, Fiji
Hilda Waqa-Sakiti
Team members: Tokasaya Cakacaka (IAS), Presly
Dovo (IAS)
SUMMARY____________________________________________________________________________
In November 2008, an entomological survey of the Nakauvadra Range, Viti Levu was conducted.
he entomological qualitative surveys included: light trapping to target nocturnal insects, leaf litter
sampling, tree beating, butterly collections and opportunistic surveys. he surveys were conducted
for a period of 10 consecutive days however, adverse weather conditions on some of the days did not
allow for insect sampling.
he order Coleopetera (beetles) was the most common insect order encountered through
the surveys with a total 18 families. Rare families encountered during the surveys included:
Cerambycidae, Lucanidae and Buprestidae. he greatest diversity of insects sampled from the
Nakauvadra Range using nocturnal searches, tree beating and butterly surveys was located within
relatively intact, lowland forest near the conluence of the Nabiya and Volivoli Creeks. he highlight
of the survey was the discovery of two stick insects known to be endemic and very rare in the Fiji
islands, with virtually nothing known about either species: Nisyrus spinulosus (syn. Cotylosoma) and
Phasmotaenia inermis (syn. Hermarchus) and a shy scorpion Liocheles australasiae. hese were also
found within the lowland forested area.
he isolation of the forest system, and hence the insect fauna, due to the high mountain ranges
separating it from neighboring forest systems explains much of the uniqueness and great diversity of
insects from the Nakauvadra Range.
INTRODUCTION_______________________________________________________________________
he Nakauvadra Range is located on the northern side of Viti Levu and south of Rakiraki town. It
runs parallel to the coast about 7 km inland with the highest elevation reaching 866 m a.s.l. he
range is comprised of andesitic rocks formed from the eroded rim of the large Rakiraki volcano
(Terry 2007).
To date there have been no entomology surveys or records from the Nakauvadra Range.
Consequently, the main aims of this survey were to: (a) conduct a baseline entomology survey of
the Nakauvadra Range using a variety of survey techniques, (b) identify signiicant species or taxa
(including accurate GPS positions for any signiicant indings) and (c) collect voucher specimens to
be housed at the SPR Herbarium, USP.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
81
Chapter 8
METHODS ____________________________________
Leaf litter surveys
Leaf litter surveys were conducted targeting the
altitudinal range (250-550m a.s.l.). Four 50 m
transects marked at 5 m intervals were set up (Map
8). One-m2 quadrats were used to sample leaf litter
at 5 m intervals along the transects. Leaf litter was
sieved through 12 mm mesh and transferred into
Winkler bags. he bags were then hung out for at
least two whole days to dry out. Collected specimens
were stored in ethanol (80%) in tightly sealed labeled
vials for further sorting and identiication in the lab.
Nocturnal surveys
Nocturnal collections for other insect groups were
conducted using light traps. hese were set up every
night where possible when the weather was ine and
left to run from 18.00-06.00. Collected specimens
were stored in ethanol (80%) in tightly sealed labeled
vials for further sorting and identiication in the lab.
Other surveys
A few shrub trees were randomly selected for beating.
At least 3-4 trees of the same species were sampled
using this method. Opportunistic surveys were
also conducted whilst carrying out surveys of other
taxa. Butterlies and damsellies were also sampled
opportunistically in open grassland areas along the
Volivoli Creek and Nabiya Creek using handheld nets
during days with good weather. Voucher specimens
were collected for identiication. Identiication of
Table 8.1. Insects collected during leaf litter sampling
Taxa
Order
Coleoptera
Family
Curculionidae
Carabidae
Nitidulidae
Scolytidae
Chrysomelidae
LL 1
1
1
2
Orthoptera
Hymenoptera
9
hysanoptera
3
Dermaptera
1
Hemiptera
2
Scorpiones
2
Opiliones
6
Acari
Indeterminate
2
Locality data:
LL 1: 178 05 45E, 17 26 27S; 541 m a.s.l
LL 2: 178 05 35E, 17 27 29S; 503 m a.s.l
LL 3; 178 05 55E, 17 27 25S; 328 m a.s.l
LL 4; 178 07 45E, 17 27 47S; 253 m a.s.l
82
Location
LL 2
LL 3
1
1
3
11
3
LL 4
2
1
3
1
15
1
4
3
5
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
6
1
Insects of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Taxa results
he greatest diversity was sampled from Transect 1
at a mid altitude of 541 m a.s.l. which conirms that
mid-altitudes harbour the greatest diversity for insects
due to fewer natural disturbances and relatively
mild climatic conditions. Overall, there were few
insects sampled from leaf litter due to the fact that
the leaf litter layer was very thin and dry, which is
unfavourable for insects.
Leaf litter sampling
A total of 93 individuals from nine insect orders
were collected during leaf litter sampling (Table 8.1).
he order Coleoptera (beetles) recorded ive families
(Curculionidae, Carabidae, Nitidulidae, Scolytidae
and Chrysomelidae). he most common taxa
encountered were Hymenoptera: Formicidae (ants).
Nocturnal sampling
Nocturnal sampling was carried out on four nights
when weather conditions permitted. A total of
166 individuals representative of seven orders
were recorded (Table 8.2). he orders Homoptera:
Cicadidae (cicada, Plates 13, 14) and Coleoptera
(beetles) were the most common taxa encountered
butterly species was based on Prasad and WaqaSakiti (2007). All specimens are currently being
curated and catalogued at the SPR Herbarium, USP.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Table 8.2. Insects collected during light trap sampling
Taxa
Order
Coleoptera
Homoptera
Orthoptera
Hemiptera
Tricoptera
Lepidoptera
Hymenoptera
Family
Scaraebidae
Eucnemidae
Lampyridae
Scolytidae
Cerambycidae
Elateridae
Scolytidae
Tenebrionidae
Carabidae
Lucanidae
Curculionidae
Cicadidae
Crickets
Katydid
Moths
LL 1
7
Location
LL 2
12
2
1
1
1
6
2
2
6
1
1
1
35
22
1
4
3
4
Abundant
1
LL 3
2
1
LL 4
1
2
3
1
2
5
22
1
10
4
Locality data:
LL 1 & 3: 178 05 52E, 17 27 20S; 327 m a.s.l
LL 2: 178 05 56E, 17 27 21S; 309 m a.s.l
LL 4; 178 07 43E, 17 27 47S; 249 m a.s.l
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
83
Chapter 8
during the nocturnal surveys. he order Coleoptera
was well represented recording 11 families including
rare families such as Cerambycidae and Lucanidae.
he greatest diversity was sampled on the irst night
of the nocturnal survey at an altitude of 327m a.s.l
located adjacent to Nabiya Creek.
individuals representative of ive orders (Table 8.4).
he most common taxa encountered were the order
Coleoptera with a total of seven families amongst
which was a rare member of the family Buprestidae
(jewel beetles). he family Curculionidae (weevils)
was the most common taxa encountered.
Opportunistic sampling
Butterlies were sampled from ive diferent
locations on ive days with ine weather. A total of
25 individual butterlies were collected and around
12 others sighted within these locations (Table
8.3). Butterlies sampled were from eight diferent
species, three of which are endemic to Fiji i.e. Papilio
schmeltzi (Plate 15), Polyura caphontis and Hypolimnas
inopinata. Butterlies from the genus Euploea were
the most common taxa encountered and are quite
widespread throughout Fiji. Interestingly, the
endemic Fijian swallow tail butterly (P. schmeltzi)
was abundant in location BC3 which was located
downstream on Volivoli Creek from Camp 1 at an
altitude of 330 m a.s.l.
Other opportunistic surveys encountered 58
Tree beating sampling
Tree beating surveys yielded 58 individuals
representative of ive orders (Table 8.5). he order
Coleoptera (beetles) was the most common taxa
encountered representing ive families. he family
Curculionidae (weevils) was the most represented
family from tree beating mainly because these are
herbivorous taxa. Hymenoptera: Formicidae (ants)
were also amongst common taxa from tree beatings.
Taxa Discussion
Insecta: Coleoptera (beetles)
Catches from light traps displayed the greatest
diversity in the coleopteran assemblage i.e. in both
Table 8.3. Butterlies collected during hand-net sampling. * Endemic to Fiji.
Taxa
Euploea boisduvali
boisduvali
E. tulliolus forsteri
Papilio shmeltzi*
Danaus hamata neptunica
D. plexipus
Xois sesara
Polyura caphontis*
Hypolimnas inopinata*
Location
BC 3
BC 1
3
BC 2
7
2
1 sighted
2
1 sighted 5 sighted
2
2 sighted 3 sighted
sighted
BC 4
4
2
Locality data:
BC 1: Entry into the Nakauvadra ranges from Vatukacevaceva Vlg
BC 2: Along Nabiya Creek near base camp1
BC 3: Downstream Volivoli creek near base camp 1
BC 4: Along Vunimakadra creek, near base camp 2
BC 5: Forest edge, exit Nakauvadra ranges to Narara village
84
BC 5
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
1
1
1
Insects of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
richness and relative abundance with a total of 18
coleopteran families. Rare families were encountered
including: Cerambycidae (long-horn beetles),
Lucanidae and Buprestidae (jewel beetles). he high
diversity of the coleopteran fauna especially from
the irst site is an excellent and positive indication
of the health of the forest system as beetles are the
main drivers of forest ecosystem functions including
pollination, herbivory, decomposition and the
recycling of nutrients. Compared to the results of
the nocturnal surveys, leaf litter and tree beating
sampling did not show much diversity due to length
of surveys i.e. in hours/days and number of days.
Future surveys with more sampling efort and in
better conditions may produce a higher diversity
using these other methods.
survey area suggesting that the forest is still well
intact. Its larval host plant, Micromelum minutum
was also identiied.
Insecta: Lepidoptera (butterlies)
A total of eight Lepidopteran species were found
of which three are endemic to Fiji namely: Papilio
shmeltzi, Polyura caphontis and Hypolimnas inopinata.
he Fijian endemic swallowtail butterly, Papilio
schmeltzi was frequently encountered within the
Insecta: Phasmatodea (stick insects)
Signiicant inds from the Nakauvadra Range were
mainly from the order Phasmatodea commonly
known as the stick insects and locally known as
‘ucikau’ which literally means resembling a stick.
One in particular is the female of Nisyrus spinulosus
(synonym to Cotylosoma, Plate 16). his species
was irst described in 1877. he only specimen to
have been previously collected from which original
descriptions were made (i.e. holotype) by Stal in
1877 is housed in the Natural History Museum in
Stockholm, Sweden. he locality data shows it being
collected from Viti Levu, Fiji. his recent ind would
probably be the second specimen ever to be collected.
Interestingly, nothing is known about N. spinulosus
except that it is endemic to the Fiji islands with an
unknown distribution within the country (Brock,
pers. comm. 2008). he signiicance of this phasmid
is its amazing body shape (i.e. cupped body, thought
Table 8.4. Insects collected during opportunistic sampling.
Table 8.5. Insects collected during opportunistic sampling.
Taxa
Order
Coleoptera
Location
Family
OS 1
Curculionidae
4
Dytiscidae
5
OS 2
31
Order
Coleoptera
Family
Curculionidae
Eucnemidae
Location
TB 1
10
2
TB 2
2
4
Scaraebidae
3
Chrysomelidae
2
Carabidae
1
Mordellidae
1
Buprestidae
1
Cerambycidae
1
Cleridae
1
Indeterminate
Brentidae
Hemiptera
Orthoptera
Phasmatodea
Opiliones
Taxa
1
5
3
2
1
Locality data:
OS 1: 178 05 44 E, 17 26 23S; 534 m a.s.l
OS 2: 178 07 43E, 17 27 47S; 249 m a.s.l.
Hymenoptera Formicidae
Orthoptera
Araneae
Opiliones
1
1
17
4
4
2
5
1
1
Locality data:
TB 1: 178 05 52E, 17 27 20S, 327 m a.s.l.
TB 2: 178 05 56 E, 17 27 21S; 309 m a.s.l.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
85
Chapter 8
to have enabled it to cling to the side of rocks), thus
when another species of the same genus was irst
described from a specimen at the Natural History
Museum in London, it was thought as being semiaquatic (i.e. having the capacity for dual breathing
system in both water and land). However, this was
later conirmed to be false and considered a myth.
Whilst in captivity, N. spinulosus did not show any
form of aggressive behavior and made no attempt
to escape. It also refused to feed while in captivity.
his particular insect was found well camoulaged
to the bark of the native dakua tree (Agathis
macrophylla) with a diameter at breast height (dbh) of
approximately 30 cm covered with lichens.
Another unique ind was a female of Phasmotaenia
inermis (synonym to Hermarchus, Plate 17) irst
described in 1908. his species is an island endemic
to Viti Levu and so far only been recorded from
Korovou, Baulevu and Nadarivatu, thus this is also a
irst record from the Nakauvadra Range (Brock pers.
comm. 2008). Very little is known about this species.
Class Arachnida: Order Scorpiones (scorpions)
he scorpion Liocheles australasiae (Plate 18) was
encountered during the survey. his is a very docile
and shy scorpion and was found foraging on leaf
litter. his species in particular is not venomous;
Liocheles are some of the least venomous scorpions
in the world and rarely sting in defense (Leeming
pers. comm. 2008). his is one of the four scorpions
recorded for Fiji and also a irst record for the
Nakauvadra Range.
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Conservation signiicance
he Nakauvadra Range is an important site for insect
conservation in Fiji. Its isolation bordered by high
mountain ranges makes it a unique forest system and
habitat for insects. Entomological surveys in the area
found a high diversity of coleopteran assemblages
(which are key components of forest ecosystem
functions) and signiicant inds included the
endemic Fijian swallowtail butterly, the phasmids N.
spinulosus and P. inermis and the rarely encountered
shy scorpion L. australasiae (Appendix 6). Also
abundant along the creeks were damsellies in the
genera Melanesobasis and Nesobasis, the former which
are native to Fiji and Vanuatu and the latter endemic
86
to Fiji.
Recommendations for conservation and future work
l he rare, endemic and possibly endangered
species particularly N. spinulosus and P.
inermis should be monitored throughout the
year and between years to provide data on
population numbers, local distribution patterns
and seasonality patterns for the development
of appropriate conservation and protection
strategies;
l More intensive and thorough entomological
sampling using malaise trapping and active
searches targeting the overall diversity of
insects and rare and endemic species should
be conducted in good weather over a longer
timeframe to acquire a complete checklist of the
diferent insect groups found in the Nakauvadra
Range;
l Environmental awareness workshops should
be conducted for resource owners on the
signiicance of the native fauna and the need to
conserve forested areas i.e., to minimize activities
leading to habitat destruction.
REFERENCES
Brock, P. Entomologist - Phasmatodea, he Natural
History Museum, London. Personal
communication on December 10, 2008.
Leeming, J. Taxonomist - Scorpiones, Spider Club of
South Africa. Personal communication on
December 4, 2008.
Naskrecki, P. Director - Invertebrate Diversity
Initiative Conservation International, Museum
of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University.
Personal communication on March 11, 2009.
Prasad, S. R. and H. Waqa-Sakiti. 2007. Butterlies
of the Fiji Islands. University of the South Paciic,
Suva, Fiji.
Terry, J. P. 2007. Tropical Cyclones. Springer, New
York.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Chapter 9
Freshwater ish and water quality of two
catchments in the Nakauvadra Range,
Ra Province, Fiji
Aaron Jenkins
Team members: Baravi Thaman (SPRH), Kinikoto
Mailautoka (Wetlands International), local guides
Iosefo and Jone
SUMMARY
his survey was conducted to produce an inventory of freshwater ishes in the Vunilaci and Vuniqesa
Rivers, within the Nakauvadra Range interior forests of Ra province, Fiji.
Overall a total of eight species from ive diferent families were collected or observed. Two species
were collected from the family Gobiidae (Awaous guamnesis and Sicyopterus zosterophorum) that
dominated the mid and the upper catchments. Also collected were three species of freshwater eels
from the family Anguillidae (Anguilla marmorata, A. obscura and A. megastoma). he freshwater
moray, Gymnothorax polyuranodon (Family Muraenidae), was also observed but not collected. We
did not record any introduced exotic species in the mid and upper catchments although we observed
that the lower catchment of the river system was heavily populated by the introduced Mozambique
Tilapia Oreochromis mossambicus (Family Cichlidae) and the mosquitoish, Gambusia affinis (Family
Poeciliidae).
hese two catchments appear depauperate in both diversity and abundance of ishes. here
are a number of notably absent families (e.g. Kuhlidae, Eleotridae) and the sparse ichthyofauna
that remains are among the hardier, ubiquitous species. No endemic or sensitive, rare fauna were
observed. Although the natural riparian bufer zones on both of these upper catchments were largely
still intact, the low abundance and diversity is likely due to the poor management of the lower
catchments, compounded by the presence of the invasive Tilapia and mosquitoish in lower areas
and the common use of Derris roots (Duva) as a ishing method. his was evident when sampling
was carried out in the middle and upper catchments where freshly used Derris roots could be
frequently seen. As the vast majority of ishes are migratory, their populations are efected by these
lower catchment areas of poor habitat quality that they must migrate across. Managing village waste
and agricultural bufer zones in the highly erodible and lood-prone lower catchments may also
help improve the migration path from sea to freshwater estuaries and up into the middle and upper
catchments, assisting a rehabilitation process for these inland freshwater fauna.
INTRODUCTION
his brief report documents the freshwater ichthyofauna and habitat (water) quality of the Vunilaci
and Vuniqesa river systems, which low along the edges of the Nakauvadra Range in the interior
forests of Ra Province. hese results are based solely on this initial biodiversity survey carried out
from November 19-28, 2008. During this period, eight 150 – 200 m sections of both the Vunilaci
and Vuniqesa catchments were intensively sampled for freshwater ish fauna and water quality in
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
87
Chapter 9
the mid and the upper catchments. he results
of this survey contribute to evaluating the overall
conservation signiicance of the area. Survey results
also permit direct comparison of the ish fauna with
other river systems, both within and outside Fiji and
will be entered into the Fiji freshwater ish database,
currently maintained by Wetlands InternationalOceania (WI-O). Initial observations and survey
results have also helped in identifying some of the
primary threats to these catchments and potential
catchment management actions.
Catchment characteristics
he Vunilaci and Vuniqesa rivers are small, tertiary
catchments which drain into the Wainibuka
River, a major secondary tributary of the Rewa
River (296,000 ha), the largest catchment in Fiji.
he Wainibuka River catchment (74,567 ha) is
one of ive major tributaries and drains the drier
northeastern part of Viti Levu. his catchment has
around 64% forest cover with 47,362 ha of forest
remaining intact. With relatively steep slopes and
deep weathering, soil erodibility is generally high
with the erodibility of grassland and grazing along
the upper reaches of the Wainibuka classiied as
severe (Atherton et. al. 2005). Contributing to this
erodibility, this secondary catchment is also notable
in having the highest number of river road crossings
(ie. bridges, culverts, fords) of any catchment in Fiji
with a total of 1460 and the second highest length
of roads in any catchment in Fiji (950 km), second
only to Dreketi River with 1655 km (Atherton
et. al. 2005). Both of the sampled, interior river
catchments, however, do not show great erosion
potential with bufer zones on the river banks are still
thick with native trees. hese interior catchments are
characterized by steep relief with many large barriers
such as waterfalls and large metamorphic boulders,
making it diicult for many ish to penetrate except
for the Gobiidae (gobies) and Anguillidae (freshwater
eel) families.
METHODS
Field sampling
Eight 150-200 m sections of the Vunilaci and
Vuniqesa catchments and tributaries were sampled
for ishes and water quality (see Map 9). hese sites
were divided into two major catchment types, middle
88
and upper catchments with the altitude ranging from
200 m in the mid catchments to 300 m on the upper
catchments. Two upper and two mid catchment sites
were sampled in each river. A variety of techniques
were used to collect fauna from the river or stream,
depending upon the characteristics of the site.
Approximately 1 hr was spent sampling at each site.
he apparatus and techniques used were as follows:
Electro-fisher (Deka 3000, 600V, 10A) was a
primary sampling tool in river and stream habitats.
Wearing rubber waders and never venturing deeper
than 1.5 m, the anode (on a 1 m long rod) was
discharged while two people (also wearing rubber
waders) held a medium sized, 1 mm2 mesh net across
the stream several metres upstream from the anode.
When the anode reached the net, it was raised and
fauna within the net were placed in a water-illed
plastic bucket.
Large seine net (2 m x 7 m, 0.4 cm2 mesh) his
net was pulled in a rough circle, with the bottom
edge down as close as possible to the substrate and
forward of the top loating edge of the net. his
technique was executed before anyone could set
foot in the water body to minimize the number of
leeing ishes. his was generally used only in minor
tributaries and slow moving or still waters.
Medium pole seine net (1.2 m x 0.8 m, 1mm2
mesh) his was used in a variety of ways. Firstly, it
was held irmly downstream as people kicked and
dislodged rubble upstream. his was a useful method
for collecting small, bottom dwelling ish. On
vegetated banks the net was thrust under submerged
vegetation and the vegetation was disturbed on the
bank dislodging ishes into the net. Also, this net
was used to “scoop” (bottom edge held forward, run
along substrate for a few seconds then lifted) from
any accessible shallow waterbodies. his net was
particularly useful for narrow streams.
Small hand nets (15 cm x 10 cm and 10 cm x
8 cm, 1mm2 mesh) hese were used to “scoop” the
underside of overhanging rocks and in small crevices
in the smaller streams and also to collect ishes when
in still water bodies.
Observations (mask and snorkel) In areas that
were shallow and the water was clear enough, a mask
and snorkel were used to observe the benthos and
isheries resources that were not being caught by the
nets.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Freshwater ish and water quality of two catchments
in the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Specimen preservation
Voucher specimens were collected, ixed in a 10%
formalin solution and transferred to 70% ethanol
solution after 5 days of ixation. Some specimens
were stored directly in 70% ethanol for DNA
analysis. As color loss is rapid, accurate preservation
of color patterns was recorded by photography. Fresh
specimens were placed in a portable aquarium with
some local aquatic vegetation and benthos to enhance
the photography. Voucher specimens were deposited
at the Marine Studies collection of University of the
South Paciic in Suva (USPS).
Water quality and habitat characteristics
Current speed was measured by loating a plastic lid
a measured distance, timing it with a stopwatch and
dividing distance (m) by time(s). pH, temperature,
conductivity and salinity were measured using a
TPS handheld meter. Turbidity was measured using
a turbidity tube and given in Nephthalometric
Turbidity Units. Location was taken with a Garmin
8 handheld GPS. Depth, width and length of reach
sampled were measured with a waterproof, iberglass
measuring tape. Approximately 1 hr was spent
sampling at each site.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Species richness and abundance
Overall a total of eight species from ive diferent
families were collected or observed (Table 9.1). Two
species were collected from the family Gobiidae
(Awaous guamnesis and Sicyopterus zosterophorum,
Plate 19) that dominated the mid and the upper
catchments. Also collected were three species
of freshwater eels from the family Anguillidae
(Anguilla marmorata, Anguilla obscura and Anguilla
megastoma). he freshwater moray, Gymnothorax
polyuranodon (Family Muraenidae), was also observed
and photographed but not collected. We did not
record any introduced exotic species in the mid and
upper catchments of Vunilaci and Vuniqesa Rivers
although we did observe that in the lower catchment,
where the rivers join near Vunisea village, was heavily
populated by the introduced Mozambique Tilapia
Oreochromis mossambicus (Family Cichlidae) and the
mosquitoish, Gambusia affinis (Family Poeciliidae).
Headwaters
In Table 9.1, most of the sites sampled ranged from
200-300 m a.s.l. Although we divided the sites
up into mid and upper catchments, the diversity
and life forms of the ishes sampled relect largely
the common families of an Indo-West Paciic
island upper catchment fauna. All species found
in these head waters are highly migratory native
fauna that are the hardy, ubiquitous species found
in both degraded and intact catchments (Jenkins
et al. 2005). hey are morphologically capable of
surmounting large barriers such as waterfalls. he ish
diversity and abundance was poor however, and this
could be partially caused by overishing, as people
commonly travel across this catchment and use the
highly destructive Derris root for ishing (Plate 20).
his could also relect the poor quality and highly
interrupted state of the lower catchments including
the Wainibuka. he major headwater fauna observed
are Anguillidae (Freshwater eels) which have an
obligate catadromous life history pattern. his means
that the adult eels must migrate out to sea where
they breed and die. he larval eels then re-enter
freshwater were they will migrate upwards feeding
and growing until they must return to sea to breed.
he other family present is Gobiidae from the subfamily Sycidiinae. hese species are amphidromous,
meaning that they spawn in freshwater, the
hatched larvae pass to sea and the juveniles return
to freshwater as post-larval ishes where they will
migrate upwards and grow (Keith 2003).
Mid-reaches
he middle reaches of these catchments were also
at quite a high elevation for a tropical high island
scenario (around 200 m) and again predominantly
yielded the common families associated with higher
elevations (Anguillidae, Gobiidae). However, in
addition to the fauna found in the headwater sites,
two other species of eels were found. First was
another species of Anguillidae, Anguilla obscura,
generally more common in swampy, low low areas.
Secondly was the freshwater moray, Gymnothorax
polyuranodon (Family Muraenidae). Both of these
species are obligate catadromous species which must
migrate to sea to breed and die, before the larval eels
re-enter the freshwater for growth and the bulk of the
remainder of their lives.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
89
Chapter 9
Table 9.1. Numbers of ishes collected or observed in the upper and middle sampling sites in the Vunilaci and Vuniqesa catchments.
Sites 1 & 2 (mid), 3 & 4 (upper) Vunilaci River; sites 5 & 6 (mid), 7 (upper) Vuniqesa River. * Fishes observed near Vunisea village. University of the South Paciic (USPS) catalogue accession numbers are given in the inal column.
Family
Anguillidae
Muraenidae
Gobiidae
Cichlidae
Poeciliidae
Genus
Anguilla
Anguilla
Anguilla
Gymnothorax
Sicyopus
Awaous
Species
1
marmorata
obscura
megastoma
polyuranodon 1
zosterophorum
guamensis
7
Oreochromis
Gambusia
mossambicus
affinis
Lower reaches
While we did not spend much time sampling in the
lower reaches, we did make some observations by
mask and snorkel near Vunisea village. hese lower
reaches were clearly heavily invaded by the two most
common invasive ishes in the Paciic Islands, the
Mozambique Tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus)
and the Mosquitoish (Gambusia affinis). Globally,
introduced invasive species are second only to
habitat destruction as the major factor driving
extinction of native species (e.g. Canonico et al.
2005). Our research in Fiji has demonstrated that
those high island catchments with Tilapia present
have, on average, seven less ish species then those
without and those native species lost are often the
common inland food ishes (Eleotridae) and endemic
species (Sicydiinae) (Jenkins et. al. pers. obs.). his
observation also supports the fact that none of
the major indigenous food ishes (e.g. Kuhliidae,
Eleotridae) or endemics were seen during this survey.
Water quality and habitat characteristics
Overall, the quality of water in the two upper
catchment areas appears to be high and relects
both the high level of remaining forest cover and
the steeper topography of both the catchments
(Appendix 7). With altitudes ranging from 200- 280
m a.s.l., the headwaters of both these catchments are
in generally excellent condition to support aquatic
life with mainly intact native riparian vegetation,
90
2
3
2
4
5
1
6
2
3
2
2
7
*
1
6
4
2
3
>10
>10
USPS
5797
observed
observed
observed
5792
5794,579
6,5798
observed
observed
shading waters to a cool 23-24°C, good average water
low of around 0.35m/s, generally over 70% dissolved
oxygen and very little turbidity.
Threats
l One of the major threats which the survey
team observed was the common usage of Derris
roots as means of catching ish. he use of these
poisonous plants can change the quality of water
by depleting oxygen and asphyxiating all aquatic
life. Although it is not really efective in free
lowing, highly oxygenated waters, life forms
in ponds and slower lowing waters are severely
afected. It is indiscriminate and will also kill
all juveniles, thus removing future potential
populations;
l Introduced ish species at the lower catchment
of the two rivers are also a major threat. hese
can also be a reason for the poor ish abundance
and diversity observed. he introduced species
Oreochromis mossambicus and Gambusia affinis
will feed on the larvae of the migratory species
which must use the river as their migration
path. he team was greeted with a bundle of
Mozambique Tilapia (O. mossabicus) upon our
arrival at the village (Plate 21).
l he other primary threat noted was the algae
bloom on the lower catchment of the river (Plate
22). his is indicative of a high level of nutrient
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Freshwater ish and water quality of two catchments
in the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
input which is likely a result of livestock,
piggeries and drain outs from nearby plantations.
his is also harmful to freshwater biodiversity
by reducing the quality of the water by afecting
levels of dissolved oxygen, water temperature and
pH.
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
l
hese two river systems in the Nakauvadra
Range are in relatively poor condition in terms
of ecological functioning and do not support
healthy populations of native ishes. Sensitive
endemic species are absent. Both of the upper
catchment areas, however, retain quite good
water quality because of intact forest and steeper,
undeveloped topography. he general poor
status of ishes in these rivers is due to poorly
managed subsistence agriculture in the lower
catchments, human settlement waste, overishing
and destructive ishing practices. Catchment
level management and rehabilitation should be
undertaken especially in the lower catchments in
order to restore some of the ecosystem function
of these rivers and in turn increase the migratory
capacity to the upper catchments. Some
potential options for assisting in catchment
rehabilitation are:
➢
➢
biodiversity.
l A concerted efort should be made to prevent
the introduction of any exotic aquatic fauna to
the upper sections these rivers. Any introduction
will likely further erode the ecological function
of these waterways. Stocking of native species
(e.g. Gudgeons) could be considered as well
as integrated irrigation/aquaculture of prawns
(Macrobrachium sp).
REFERENCES
Atherton, J., D. Olson, L. Farley L. and I. Qauqau.
2005. Fiji watersheds at risk: watershed
assessment for healthy reefs and isheries. Wildlife
Conservation Society, Suva, Fiji.
Canonico, G. C., A. Arthington, J. K. McCrary,
and M. L. hieme. 2005. he efects of
introduced tilapias on native biodiversity. Aquat.
Conserv. Mar. Freshw. Ecosyst. 15: 463–483.
Jenkins, A. P. 2005. A preliminary study of freshwater
fauna and water quality of Kubuna River
and tributaries with recommendations for
conservation action. Wetlands International
– Oceania. John Gorton Building, Canberra,
ACT 2601.
Keith, P. 2003. Biology and ecology of
amphidromous Gobiidae of the Indo-Paciic and
the Caribbean regions. J. Fish Biol. 63: 831-847.
community-based replanting
of bufer zones particularly in
mid-catchment areas adjacent to
subsistence agriculture and road
crossing areas;
village level waste and water
management plans (e.g.
construction of ecological or
compost toilets, livestock waste
areas, minimize livestock traversing
waterways).
l Forests in the upper catchments of the two
rivers, Vunilaci and Vuniqesa should be retained
as protected areas. Generally, high water quality
within the area is indicative of the remaining
tract of native forest. his type of forested
upper catchment is increasingly rare in Fiji and
the Paciic and would serve the area well as a
repository of potable water and unique terrestrial
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
91
Chapter 10
Cultural Survey of the Nakauvadra
Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Sepeti Matararaba and Elia Nakoro
SUMMARY
During the course of the survey, an annotated ield map of signiicant cultural sites was constructed
to identify and map sites of historical and cultural signiicance in the Nakauvadra Range. Our
resulting maps generally depicted that resting spots or stop-over spots were found high up in the
forest and close to mountain peaks. Fortiied settlements in the form of ring-ditches and stone walls
were evident further up into the forest and closer to water sources.
Also observed were mound features used as native land boundaries showing land holding units
amongst the diferent yavusa or clans during Rt. Sukuna’s presence in the Veitarogi Vanua around the
early 1950s.
INTRODUCTION
he Nakauvadra Range in the province of Ra is renowned locally as a signiicant cultural site with
many links to legendary tales of Fiji’s colorful past. Having being dubbed the “highway” for many
of Fiji’s ancestors across Viti Levu in the days when modern forms of transportation were unheard
of, the Nakauvadra Range is rich in evidence of settlements and historical events that have been
reinforced by oral traditions passed down by elders and scripted accounts from the Vola Vivigi or
“blue book” containing descriptions of historical events that took place along the range.
Although very rugged and diicult to access, the inhabitants of the Nakauvadra forest probably
chose to construct their settlements on high altitude to better protect them from raging enemies.
Our primary aim was to identify and map sites of cultural signiicance in the Nakauvadra Range.
Below is an account of the diferent sites of cultural signiicance found in order of visit during the
survey.
METHODS
he Fiji Museum-Archaeology Department assessed most of the archaeological/historical sites during
the irst week of the survey (Map 10 for site locations). he second week was spent mainly focusing
on the collection of oral histories and general knowledge about the Nakauvadra Range from the
people of Vunisea village.
92
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Cultural Survey of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra
Province, Fiji
RESULTS
Vunirautoba Rock Shelter
his site was approximately 412 m a.s.l. (GARMIN
GPSmap 76CSx) and was assumed to only have
been used as a place of rest due to its small size
and constricted space (Plate 23). here was also
no evidence of cooking as pottery shards and shell
middens were not found.
Oso-nai-vua Rock Shelter (Plates 24,25)
his site was approximately 505 m southwest of the
Vunirautoba rock shelter. he meaning behind the
name of the rock shelter is related from the shape of
the rock arch where directly translated- oso means
stuck and vua is burden. Myth claims that anyone
who is heavily burdened will not be able to enter the
arched feature of the rear rock face of the site.
he front face of the rock approximately 10 m in
height providing exceptional shelter for resting. he
side of the rock reveals evidence of a ire place. his
site has been carefully selected as it is located close to
water source.
Binibini (Putuputu) qele/vatu (Plate 26)
Binibini qele/vatu are earth or stone mounds made for
physical markers showing divisions of traditional land
owning units of blocks of land according to yavusa or
clan.
he demarcation of land was carried out by the
late Rt. Sukuna and the landowners in the 1940’s
when he was the Chief Native Lands Commissioner.
Information regarding the rightful owners of blocks
of land on either sides of the marker can be obtained
from the Native Lands Commission in Suva.
Nasovu rock shelter (Plate 27)
Situated approximately 386 m south of Vunirautoba,
the Nasovu rock shelter is at an elevation of 416 m.
he massive site has signiicant evidence of habitation
in the form of scattered pottery shards and shell
middens (Plate 52). he pottery pieces had designs
on them and according to the pottery sequence of
Fiji is in the fourth stage which is the Vuda phase
circa 700-500 BP (refer to the appendices for pottery
images).
Asenauluna rock shelter (Plate 28)
Asenauluna site is located south-southeast
downstream on Nabiya Creek from Camp 1. At an
elevation of 337 m, the huge rock provides shelter to
those that use the forest to hunt, gather wild crops
and a resting place for those en-route to neighboring
villages towards Vatukacevaceva.
In the 1940s the rock shelter provided refuge for
a nursing mother and her daughter. he baby was
born and spent more than four nights at the rock
shelter nursing with her mother until she was healthy
enough to journey back to Vunisea village about
7.5 km downstream where traditional ceremonies
celebrating the arrival of the new born and also
marking her four nights (vakabogiva) took place.
We retrieved pottery shards, shell middens and a
bottle (believed to be quite old) from the site (Plate
48). he shards fall in the Vuda phase (700-500 BP)
of the Fiji pottery sequence.
Wainibelo rock shelter (Plate 29)
his rock shelter is an ideal resting spot with quite a
large spatial area compared to other sites. Located just
a few metres away from Asenauluna site, its elevation
is 302 m with the Nabiya Creek running behind it.
Findings from the site include decorated pottery
shards of around the same year range as the other
sites, the fourth phase of the Fiji pottery sequence,
the Vuda phase (Plate 51).
Marika’s site (Plate 30)
his site was discovered by Marika Tuiwawa and
his group during their botanical surveys. Human
inluence was obvious at this lattened platform
where the side of a hill has been dug out and
packed down. It was in the shape of a semi circle
approximately 25 m long and 20 m wide. he site
could have been inhabited as there is evidence of a
rock formation- possibly remains of a house mound.
Hilda’s site (Plate 31)
his site was discovered by the entomology group
and is named after the group leader, Hilda WaqaSakiti. Situated about 5 min west of Camp 1, Hilda’s
site has the remains of a house mound with stone
surroundings raised about 60 cm from ground level.
he mound was about 15 m long and 10 m wide
with stones partially displaced. Walking upstream,
Hilda’s site is located on the left bank of the Nabiya
Creek. Typical of a settlement is the planting of food
trees such as breadfruit.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
93
Chapter 10
Belo’s rock shelter (Plate 32)
Similarly, this small rock shelter was discovered by
one of the guides named Belo. Rising to about 4 m
Belo’s rock shelter contained evidence of scattered
decorated pottery shards from the Vuda phase,
shell middens and a ire place. he rock shelter was
situated right beside Hilda’s house mound.
Motoriki Hill fortiication (Plates 33, 34)
his hill fort was one of the best remains of cultural
features sighted during the trip. Evidence of a deep
ring ditch more then 1 m in height enveloped the
settlement. Running parallel to the inner edge of the
ditch was an intact stone wall. Guard points made
especially for watchmen on duty were also visible.
Inside the settlement are remains of house mounds,
some are still intact (refer to the settlement map).
Vunivauvau old village site (Plate 35)
According to the guides, Vunivauvau was the former
village site before the present Vunisea village was
occupied. It is located about 500 m away from the
Vunisea village. he site is exceptionally big and some
mounds were not mapped due to thick vegetation
cover.
Matarau rock shelter (Plate 36)
his rock shelter was located northwest of Vunisea
village. Found at the site was cultural evidence similar
to other sites - scattered pottery shards and shells
(Plate 47). Like other sites, the shards date back to
the Vuda phase. he site was at an altitude of 179 m
with a small creek running beside it.
Bua old village (Plates 37, 38)
Approximately 800 m northward from Matarau rock
shelter was Bua old village also known as Namasaga.
House mounds with huge stone foundations were
neatly aligned in this big settlement and were highly
raised of the ground. he site was scattered with
food trees such as breadfruit and Tahitian chestnut
(Inocarpus fagiferus).
Located 180 m away from the lower village was
the fortiied settlement (upper Bua) on a peak of
about 334 m. he settlement had two sets of stone
walls both measuring to a height of close to 2 m. At
the entrance were two pillar stones and further in
were house mounds with stone foundations raised to
about 60-70 cm. With the exception of the entrance
side of the site, all sides were rocky and steep making
94
access diicult. Numerous pottery shards were found
at each site (Plates 49, 50).
Uluda historical sites
he following sites are related to legends of
Lutunasobasoba and Degei’s migration. he sites can
be found from the ridge or the Tualeita to the side of
the range that faces the village of Vatukacevaceva.
Plate 39 shows the historical Rogorogoivuda at the
point Uluda. According to legends the Rogorogoivuda,
is a lali beaten to call all the gods from all over Fiji to
attend a meeting.
Tobu ni sili nodrau na ciri (Plate 40)
his was the bathing spot for the two brothers,
Cirinakaumoli and Kalusabaria. Legend depicts that
the grandsons of Lutunasobasoba were responsible for
the killing of Turukawa, a famous rooster (cock) that
was coveted and taken by the snake god Degei. As a
result, war broke out as the brothers killed most of
Degei’s men and were later banished by their father.
he brothers had their houses built close to their
bathing spot. One of their house foundations had
more then 10 standing stones (Plate 41).
Conua (Plate 42)
Located about 500 m northwest from the brothers’
home in a place called Conua is a rain tree that is said
to be where the rooster sat and crowed each morning
to wake Degei.
Vatukacevaceva old village site (Plate 43)
On the far end of the range from Uluda peak, about
548 m a.s.l., is the site of the Vatukacevaceva old
village. he site was fortiied with a clif face and
stone walls and contained evidence of scattered
pottery shards and shells (Plate 53).
Navolau sites II (Plate 44)
he Navoka rock shelter was about 721 m from the
village of Navolau II. he massive site rises to over 10
m in height and has evidence of pottery shards from
around the Vuda phase and shells strewn across the
shelter.
Delaisuvani Peak (Plate 45)
On the peak were the remains of what is believed to
be either a lookout point or a sacred worshipping
ground fortiied with a ring ditch. Currently, the Fiji
Sugar Corporation has one of its radio transmitters
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Cultural Survey of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra
Province, Fiji
erected right on top of the only house mound on
the site. Beside the house mound was a pile of stones
in a conical structure about 2-3 m in height. he
diameter of the base is around 11 m while the top is
about 4 m wide. According to Giford (1951), in his
article “Fijian Mythology, Legends, and Archaeology”
an informant said that Degei and Lebanacagi had ten
children and their fourth son was Rasuwaki. Degei,
realizing that he had a lot of male ofspring, decided
to send them to diferent parts of Viti Levu, so they
would not quarrel. Rasuwaki was sent to Suvani, a
village near Navolau, Ra Province.
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
he sites visited during this initial expedition were in
well preserved conditions barely modiied by human
interaction. he department wishes to recommend:
l hat proper documentation of the survey and
oral history be undertaken to avoid the loss of
traditional knowledge about these sites.
l he old village site belonging to the people of
Vunisea displaying a formation of fortiication
wall that is rather unique, and which the Fiji
Museum Archaeology Department has never
come across before, be cleaned and maintained
by the local villagers (Plate 38).
l he Fiji Museum Archaeology Department be
included in any future surveys of the area to
allow for the completion of the survey in the
overlooked areas within the Biodiversity survey
region and to revisit Navolau II and record its
oral histories.
REFERENCES
Fischel, W. J. 1951. Semitic and Oriental Studies.
University of California Publications in Semitic
Philology, Vol. XI. University of California Press,
Los Angeles.
Giford, E. W. 1951. Fijian Mythology, Legends,
and Archaeology. In: Fischel, W. J. (ed.) Semitic
and Oriental Studies. University of California
Publications in Semitic Philology, Vol. XI.
University of California Press, Los Angeles.
A Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
95
Appendix 1
Checklist of the vascular plant flora of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Marika Tuiwawa and Arthur Whistler
The following checklist of native and naturalised seed plants is based upon collections made during a
survey from November 18-26, 2008. The checklist is divided into Dicotyledonae, Monocotyledonae, and
Gymnosperms, in that order. Within each group the species are listed in alphabetically arranged families,
and alphabetically within the families.
Footnotes: (1) Under “Status,” A = ancient introduction, E = endemic, I = indigenous, but not endemic,
and X = exotic, not native; (2) Under “Life Form,” E = epiphyte, H = terrestrial herb, L = liana (woody
climber), S = shrub, T = tree, and V = herbaceous vine; (3) W=Whistler, T= Tuiwawa, and R= Rounds; and
(4) Voucher specimen number or collection number denoted as Tuiwawa (four digits) for plant voucher
specimens collected for the SPRH.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Species
Status1 Life
Fijian and
Source3 Voucher4
2
Author(s)
Form
English Names
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------DICOTYLEDONAE
ACANTHACEAE (Acanthus Family)
Blechum pyramidatum (Lam.) Urb.
X
H
medra sucu na beka,
W, T
Graptophyllum insularum
I
S
W. T
(A. Gray) A.C. Sm.
Pseuderanthemum laxiflorum
E
S
drividrivi
W, T
4298
(A. Gray) Hubbard
ALANGIACEAE (Alangium Family)
Alangium vitiense
E
(A. Gray) Baill. ex Harms
AMARANTHACEAE (Amaranth Family)
Achyranthes aspera L.
X
Amaranthus viridus L.
A
ANACARDIACEAE (Cashew Family)
Buchanania attenuata A.C. Smith
E
Mangifera indica L.
X
Pleiogynium timoriense (DC.)
I
Leenh.
Rhus taitensis Guillemin
I
Semecarpus vitiensis (A. Gray)
I
Engl.
Spondias dulcis Sol. ex Parkinson
A
ANNONACEAE (Custard Apple Family)
Cananga odorata
A
(Lam.) Hook. f. & Thoms.
Cyathocalyx insularis A.C. Sm.
E
Richella monosperma A. Gray
E
Xylpia pacifica A.C. Sm.
E
T
H
H
doko ni sau
W, T
Tubua, Chauraya
T
T
T
T
T
Kaukaro
mango,
T
T
Manawi
kaukaro
W, T
W, T
T
Wi
T
T
makosoi;
ylang-ylang
W, T
T
T
T
T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
4310
4319
4415
4281
4327
APOCYNACEAE (Dog-bane Family)
Alstonia montana Turrill
Alstonia vitiensis Seem.
Alyxia linearifolia A.C. Sm.
Alyxia stellata (Forst.) R. & S.
Cerbera cf. odollam Gaertn.
Ervatamia obtusiscula Markgraf
Pagiantha thurstonii
(Horne ex Baker) A.C. Sm.
E
E
E
I
I
I
E
T
T
S/L
S/L
T
S
T
sorua
sorua
vono
vono matailevu
rewa, vasa rewa
vueti naitasiri
vueti naitaseri
T
T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W
E
E
E
I
E
T
T
T
T
T
sole
sole
sole
danidani
sole
T
W, T
T
W
W, T
ASCLEPIADACEAE (Milkweed Family)
Hoya australis R. Br. ex Traill
I
Hoya vitiensis Seem.
E
Tylophora sp.
E
V
V
V
bitabita, wa tabua
drau bibi
W, T
W, T
W, T
ASTERACEAE (Aster Family)
Ageratum conyzoides L.
X
H
W, T
X
H
ageratum; usuusu
vanua; botebotekoro
hairy horseweed;
W
X
H
thickhead
W, T
X
H
tobacco weed,
tavakoni veikau
T
ARALIACEAE (Panax Family)
Plerandra pickeringii A. Gray
Polyscias cortica Gibbs
Polyscias joskei Gibbs
Polyscias multijuga (A. Gray) Harms
Schefflera vitiensis (A. Gray) Seem.
Conyza bonariensis
(L.) Cronq.
Crassocephalum crepidioides
(Benth.) S. Moore
Elephantopus mollis H.B.K.
Eleutheranthera ruderalis
(Sw.) Schultz-Bip.
Mikania micrantha H.B.K.
X
H
X
V
Tridax procumbens L.
X
H
Vernonia cinerea (L.) Less.
X
H
BARRINGTONIACEAE (Barringtonia Family)
Barringtonia sp.
I
T
BIGNONIACEAE (Bignonia Family)
Spathodea campanulata Beauv.
X
BURSERACEAE (Bursera Family)
Canarium harveyi Seem.
Canarium vitiense A. Gray
Haplolobus floribundus
(K. Schum.) Lam
I
I
I
T
T
T
T
4400
4282, 4311
4438
W
mile-a-minute;
wa bosucu
coat buttons;
tabu keka
kaukamea
W, T
Tivi
T
African tulip tree;
pasui
W, T
qauqau? kaunicina
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
T
4261
94
CARICACEAE (Papaya Family)
Carica papaya L.
X
T
pawpaw; weleti
W, T
CASSYTHACEAE (Cassytha Family)
Cassytha filiformis L.
I
V
cassytha;
Wailutumailagi
T
CLUSIACEAE (Mangosteen Family)
Calophyllum cerasiferum Vesque
Calophyllum neo-ebudicum Guill.
Calophyllum vitiense Turrill
Garcinia myrtifolia A.C. Sm.
Garcinia pseudoguttifera Seem.
Garcinia sessilis (Forst.) Seem.
Garcinia vitiensis (A. Gray) Seem.
T`
T
T
T
T
T
T
E
I
E
I
I
E
E
CONVOLVULACEAE (Morning-Glory Family)
Ipomoea indica (Burm.) Merr.
I
V
Merremia peltata (L.) Merr.
I
V
CONNARACEAE (Connarus Family)
Connarus pickeringii A. Gray
E
Rourea minor (Gaertn.) Alston
I
CUCURBITACEAE (Melon Family)
Neoalsomitra integrifoliola
I
(Cogn.) Hutchinson
Zehneria mucronata (Bl.) Miq.
I
L
L
damanu dilodilo
damanu
laubu
suweru, sarosaro
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
wa bulu?
wa bula
W, T
T
wa tobili toi
W, T
W
V
4416
4340, 4420
4279
4419
4384
W, T
V
wa madrali?
W
E
E
T
T
vure, vota
vure
T
W, T
4448
DEGENERIACEAE (Degeneria Family)
Degeneria roseiflora J. M. Miller
E
T
masiratu, vavaloa
W, T
4287
EBENACEAE (Ebony Family)
Diospyros sp.
T
kauloa
W, T
4286
mea tivi na ka
W, T
4392
W, T
4293, 4405
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
4277
4428
W, T
W, T
4453
4316
CUNONIACEAE (Cunonia Family)
Geissois ternata A. Gray
Weinmannia affinis A. Gray
I?
ELAEOCARPACEAE (Elaeocarpus Family)
Elaeocarpus chelonimorphus
E
T
Gillespie
Elaeocarpus chionanthus A.C. Sm.
E
T
EUPHORBIACEAE (Spurge Family)
Acalypha insulana Muell. Arg.
Acalypha repanda Muell. Arg.
Acalypha rivularis Seem.
Aleurites moluccana (L.) Willd.
E
I
E
A
T/S
T/S
S
T
Baccaurea pulvinata A.C. Sm.
Baccaurea seemannii
E
I
T `
T
bukubogi?, kalabuci
kalabuci
candlenut; lauci,
sikeci
midra
midra
95
(Muell. Arg) Muell. Arg.
Baccaurea stylaris Muell. Arg.
Bischofia javanica Bl.
Chamaesyce hirta (L.) Millsp.
E
I
X
T
T
H
E
T/S
X
E
S
T
I
E
I
T
T
T
E
T
E
T
I
T
velutu, gadoa, mavu,
davo?, mama
T
X
X
I
T
H
S/L
red bead tree
peanut grass
yellow nickers, soni
T
W
W, T
X
X
E
X
A
X
X
V
H
T
L
S
H
H
Entada phaseoloides (L.) Merr.
Intsia bijuga (Colebr.) Kuntze
Inocarpus fagiferus
(Parkinson) Fosberg
Kingiodendron polycarpum B.L. Burtt
Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit.
I
I
A
L
T
T
E
X
T
T/S
Mimosa pudica L.
X
H
Mucuna platyphylla A. Gray
Pueraria lobata (Willd.) Ohwi
Samanea saman Jacq.
I
A
X
l
V
T
Serianthes melanesica Fosb.
Strongyledon lucidus (Forst. f.) Seem.
I
I
T
V
Claoxylon vitiense Gillespie
(Muell. Arg.) Pax & Hoffm.
Codiaeum variegatum (L.) Juss.
Endospermum macrophyllum
(Muell. Arg.) Pax & Hoffm.
Glochidion concolor Muell. Arg.
Glochidion seemannii Muell. Arg.
Homalanthus nutans
(Forst. f.) Guillem.
Macaranga graeffeana
Pax & Hoffm.
Macaranga magna Turrill
4313
Macaranga seemannii
(Muell. Arg.) Muell. Arg.
FABACEAE (Legume Family)
Adenanthera pavonine L.
Atylosia scarabaeoides (L.) Benth.
Caesalpina major
(Medik.) Dandy & Exell
Centrosema pubescens Benth.
Chamaecrista nictitans Moench.
Cynometra insularis A.C. Sm.
Derris malaccensis (Benth.) Prain
Desmodium heterocarpon (L.) DC.
Desmodium heterophyllum (Willd.) DC.
Desmodium triflorum (L.) DC.
Java cedar; togotogo,
garden spurge;
de ni ose, ovuka?
malenivia
W, T
W, T
W, T
T
variegated croton
kai sesevu, vulavula,
kauvula
molau. molau yalewa
molau yalewa
tautau, tadano
W, T
W, T
velutu, velodo,
mavu
velutu
T
moivi, cibicibi
derris; duva
wakutu, senivakacegu
three-flowered
beggarweed; borotimi
water vine,
walai
vesi
ivi
Moivi
leucaena; vaivai du,
vaivai ni Vavalagi
sensitive plant,
co gadrogadro
wa tikori
kudzu, yaka, wa yaka
monkeypod; vaivai
ni vavalagi,
vaivai, vaivai ni Viti
wa yaka?
4346
T
T
W, T
4263
W, T
W
W, T
W, T
W, T
W
W
W
4270
W, T
T
T
W, T
T
W, T
W, T
W
W, T
T
W
4323
96
FLACOURTIACEAE (Flacourtia Family)
Casearia richii A. Gray
E
Flacourtia vitiensis (Seem.) A.C. Sm.
E
S
T
galo, qalo?
midra
W, T
W, T
GENTIANACEAE (Gentian Family)
Fagraea berteroana A. Gray ex Benth.
Fagraea gracilipes A. Gray
I
I
T
T
bua, bua ni Viti
W, T
W, T
GOODENIACEAE (Goodenia Family)
Scaevola floribunda A. Gray
E
S
vevedu ni vanua?,
W, T
HERNANDIACEAE (Hernandia Family)
Hernandia olivacea Gillespie
E
T
wairiki?, makoloa
W, T
4403
ICACINACEAE (Icacina Family)
Medusanthera vitiensis Seem.
E
T
baka?, duvu
W, T
4385, 4435
LAMIACEAE (Mint Family)
Hyptis pectinata (L.) Poit.
X
H
mint weed; tamoli
ni vavalagi
W, T
4265
E
T
macou
W, T
4271
I
T
damabi?
W, T
4324
LEEACEAE (Leea Family)
Leea indica (Burm. f.) Merr.
I
T/S
ruma?
W
LOBELIACEAE (Lobelia Family)
Lobelia zeylanica L.
X
H
E
T
I
E
E?
T
T
T
LAURACEAE (Laurel Family)
Cinnamomum fitianum
(Meisn.) A.C. Sm.
Endiandra elaeocarpa Gillespie
LOGANIACEAE (Strychnine Family)
Geniostoma cf. clavigerum
A.C. Sm. & Stone
Geniostoma rupestre Forst.
Neuburgia collina (A.C. Sm.) A.C. Sm.
Neuburgia corynocarpa
(A. Gray) Leenh.
LORANTHACEAE (Mistletoe Family)
Decaisnina forsteriana
I
(J.A. & J.H. Schultes) Barlow
LYTHRACEAE (Lythrum Family)
Cuphea carthagenensis (Jacq.) Macbr.
MALVACEAE (Mallow Family)
Hibiscus tiliaceus L.
Malvastrum coromandelianum
(L.) Garcke
Sida rhombifolia L.
4383
4309
W
buibuita,
boiboida
buibiuta, boiboida
bo
bo, bo loa, bulei
T
T
W
T
S
island mistletoe;
mokarewa?
W, T
X
H
tar weed
W, T
I
X
T
H
beach hibiscus; vau,
broom weed; qatima
W, T
T
A
S/H
broomweed;
W, T
4347
97
Urena lobata L.
A
S/H
MELASTOMATACEAE (Melastoma Family)
Astronidium robustum (Seem.) A.C. Sm.
E
T
Astronidium tomentosum
E
T
(Seem.) A.C. Sm.
Clidemia hirta (L.) Don
X
S
qavi ni lawa
hibiscus bur; qatima
W, T
W, T
W, T
Koster’s curse; mara
na bulumakau,
kau rasiga
kabikabi
4386
4414
W, T
Medinilla heterophyllya A. Gray
E
L
Medinilla cf. ovalifolia
(A. Gray) A.C. Sm.
Melastoma denticulatum Labill.
E
L
I
S
dradrasiga, kaunisiga
E
E
T
T
kautoa
T
sorovulu, sauira,
W, T
mala
bausoro, kautoa
W, T
4487
mala, bausomi
sorovulu, tarawau
W, T
kei rakaka
false sandlewood; W, T
4348
cevua, sevua
MELIACEAE (Mahogany Family)
Aglaia elegans Gillespie
Dysoxylum gillespieanum A.C. Sm.
W, T
W, T
4333,
4395, 4413
4337
W, T
4269
Dysoxylum lenticellare
Gillespie
Dysoxylum richii (A. Gray) C. DC.
E
T
E
T
Vavaea amicorum Benth.
I
T
MONIMIACEAE (Monimia Family)
Hedycarya dorsteniodes A. Gray
I
T
se ni kai
dromodromo?
W, T
MORACEAE (Mulberry Family)
Artocarpus altilis (Parkinson) Fosb.
Ficus bambusifolia Seem.
A
E
T
S
W, T
T
Ficus fulvo-pilosa Summerh.
E
T
Ficus greenwoodii Summerh.
Ficus obliqua Forst.
Ficus prichardii Seem.
Ficus smithii Horne ex Baker
Ficus tinctoria Forst. f.
E
I
E
I
I
T
T
T
T
T
Ficus vitiensis Seem.
Malaisia cf. scandens (Lour.) Planch.
Streblus anthropophagorum
(Seem.) Corner
E
I
I
T/S
L
T
breadfruit:
bamboo-leaved fig;
loselose ni wai?
viriviri, masimasi,
ai masi, masi
masimasi, masi, nunu
baka
masimasi, kabi
baka, masimasi?
dyer’s fig; baka?,
nunu, baka, masi
Fiji fig; kaba, lololo
wa masi?
kau damu, male
T
T
MYRISTICACEAE (Nutmeg Family)
Myristica castaneifolia A. Gray
E
Myristica chartacea Gillespie
E
T
T
4470
W, T
4315
W, T
T
W, T
W, T
4322, 4439
W, T
W, T
W, T
4328, 4369
4362
4299
98
MYRSINACEAE (Myrsine Family)
Embelia gracilis Turrill
Maesa tabacifolia Mez
Rapanea cf. hadrocarpa A.C. Sm.
Rapanea myricifolia (A. Gray) Mez
Tapeinosperma
E
I
E
I
E
S/L
T
T
T
T
E
T/S
niqwa, nuqanuqa
W, T
I
X
E
T
T/S
T/S
vuga
guava; quwawa
yasiyasi, yasi
W, T
W, T
W, T
4402
I
T
yasiyasi, yasi
W, T
4329, 4455
E
T
yasi
W, T
I
T/S
yasi, yasiyasi
W, T
4457, 4280
4345
4326
A
T
Malay apple; kavika
W, T
E
T
yasi ni wai,
W, T
NYCTAGINACEAE (Four-O’clock Family)
Pisonia umbellifera (Forst.) Seem.
I
T
roro
T
OLACACEAE (Olax Family)
Anacolosa lutea Gillespie
kai lo?
W, T
4331, 4484,
W, T
4437
wa vatu
W, T
4370
willow primrose;
riro?, wa ni kisi
W, T
qaradila,
Wa madra?
T
W
MYRTACEAE (Myrtle Family)
Decaspermum vitiense
(A. Gray) Niedenzu
Metrosoderos collina (Forst.) A. Gray
Psidium guajava L.
Syzygium cf. amicorum.
(A. Gray) C. Muell.
Syzygium cf. curvistylum
(Gillespie) Merr. & Perry
Syzygium diffusum
(Turrill) Merr. & Perry
Syzygium gracilipes
(A. Gray) Merr. & Perry
Syzygium malaccense
(L.) Merr. & Perry
Syzygium seemannianum
Merr. & Perry
OLEACEAE (Olive Family)
Chionanthus vitiensis
(Seem.) A.C. Sm.
Jasminum simplicifolium Forst. f.
I
T
I
T
I
L
ONAGRACEAE (Evening-Primrose Family)
Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) Raven
X
H
PASSIFLORACEAE (Passion-Flower Family)
Passiflora foetida L.
X
V
Passiflora suberosa L.
X
V
PEPEROMIACEAE (Peperomia Family)
Peperomia lasiostigma C. DC.
E
Peperomia sp..
E?
PIPERACEAE (Pepper Family)
Macropiper puberulum Benth. f.
Macropiper timothianum
(A.C. Sm.) A.C. Sm.
I
I
W
W, T
W, T
T
T
H
H
S
S
yaqoyaqona
beta, yaqoyaqona
4366, 4397
4342
4421
4364
W, T
T
4306
W, T
T
4296
99
Piper aduncum L.
X
S
W, T
L
yaqoyaqona, onalulu,
wanonalulu, yagonani
onalulu,
wa kikokiko
Piper insectifugum C. DC.
E
PITTOSPORACEAE (Pittosporum Family)
Pittosporum arborescens A. Gray
I
Pittosporum rhytidocarpum A. Gray
E
T
T
wa tuva, duva kalou
tuva qwa?, duva gaga
T
T
POLYGALACEAE (Polygala Family)
Polygala paniculata L.
X
H
tavitaviraki, yavete?,
ai roi ni turasa
W, T
PROTEACEAE (Protea Family)
Turrillia vitiensis (Turrill) A.C. Sm.
E
T
kai sivisivi, sivia
W, T
RHAMNACEAE (Buckthorn Family)
Alphitonia franguloides A. Gray
E
Alphitonia zizyphoides
I
(Spreng.) A. Gray
T
T
doi, doi damu
doi
W, T
T
RHIZOPHORACEAE (Mangrove Family)
E
Crossostylis harveyi Benth.
Crossostylis richii (A. Gray) A.C. Sm.
E
T
T
tiri vanua
W, T
W, T
ROSACEAE (Rose Family)
Rubus moluccanus L.
I
L/S
wild raspberry;
Wasorisori
W, T
E
T/S
E
E
X
I
T/S
T/S
T/S
T/S
E
E
I
E
E
E
E
I
I
I
T/S
T/S
H
S
S
S
L
T/S
T/S
T
E
I
E
I
E
S/H
S/H
S/H
T/S
L/S
RUBIACEAE (Coffee Family)
Airosperma trichotomum
(Gillespie) A.C. Sm.
Calycosia macrocyatha Fosberg
Calycosia petiolata A. Gray
Coffea arabica L.
Cyclophyllum barbatum
(Forst. f.) A.C. Sm. & S. Darwin
Dolicholobium oblongifolium A. Gray
Gardenia sp.
Geophila repens (L.) I.M. Johnston
Hydnophytum grandiflorum Becc.
Ixora amplexicaulis Gillespie
Ixora somosomaensis Gillespie
Morinda bucidifolia A. Gray
Morinda citrifolia L.
Mussaenda raiateensis J.W. Moore
Neonauclea forsteri
(Seem. ex Havil.) Merr.
Ophiorrhiza laxa A. Gray
Ophiorrhiza leptantha A. Gray
Ophiorrhiza peploides A. Gray
Psychotria oncocarpa K. Schum.
Psychotria tephrosantha A. Gray
T
4486
4440
4334
W
kau yalewa
Arabian coffee; kove
se ni ciriwai?
drega
totodro ni veiukai
kura
bovo, bobo
yabo, vacea,
vutoro, bo
drau rau ni ulu
lera
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W
W, T
W, T
4417
4360, 4365
4383
4335
4475, 4443
T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
4288
4273
4336
4274
4387, 4412
100
Psydrax odorata (Forst. f.)
A.C. Sm. & S. Darwin
Readea membranacea Gillespie
Spermacoce assurgens
Ruiz & Pavon
Tarenna sambucina
(Forst. f.) Dur. ex Drake
Timonius affinis A. Gray
Xanthophytum calycinum
(A. Gray) Benth. & Hook.
I
T/S
E
X
T
H
I
T/S
I
E
T/S
T/S
A
T
Melicope culcullata
(Gillespie) A.C. Sm.
E
T
Micromelum minutum (Forst. f.) Seem.
I
T/S
W, T
I
E
T/S
T
W, T
W, T
4436
4284, 4291
E
T/S
malawa ci
T
4320, 4349
I
S/T
T
I
T
native hop bush;
osi, osi yalewa
marasa, kau loa
E
I
T
T
wiwi, manawi
tawa, dawa
W, T
W, T
E
T
E
T
SAURAUIACEAE (Saurauria Family)
Saurauria rubicunda (A. Gray) Seem.
E
SIMAROUBACEAE (Quassia Family)
Amaroria soulameoides A. Gray
E
RUTACEAE (Rue Family)
Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr.
SAPINDACEAE (Soapberry Family)
Allophylus timoriensis (DC.) Bl.
Cupaniopsis concolor
(Gillespie) Van der Ham
Cupaniopsis leptobotrys
(A. Gray) Radlk.
Dodonaea viscosa (L.) Jacq.
Elattostachys falcata
(A. Gray) Radlk.
Koelreuteria elegans(Seem.) A.C. Sm.
Pometia pinnata Forst.
SAPOTACEAE (Sapodilla Family)
Planchonella cf. smithii
(van Royen) A.C. Sm.
Planchonella vitiensis Gillespie
SOLANACEAE (Nightshade Family)
Solanum torvum Sw.
X
STERCULIACEAE (Cocoa Family)
Firmiana diversifolia A. Gray
E
Heritiera ornithocephala Kosterm.
I
Melochia vitiensis A. Gray
E
W, T
4466
W, T
4292,
buttonweed
bobo taqwane,
vakacaredavui
dogo ni vanua
pomelo,
shaddock; moli kana
rautolu, drautolu,
tokatolu
tokatolu
W, T
W, T
W, T
4446
4451
W, T
W, T
W, T
4379
W, T
4285
bulubulu?, sarosaro
W, T
4283
T
mimila
W, T
T
vasa ni veikau
T
S
prickly solanum; soni,
W, T
T
T
T
vau ceva
rogi, rosarosa,
savai, vau damu
T
T
W, T
4371
101
Pterocymbium oceanicum A.C. Sm.
E
T
ma, yanita
T
SYMPLOCACEAE (Symplocos Family)
Symplocos leptophylla (Brand) Turrill
I
T
roro
W, T
THYMELAEACEAE (Mezereum Family)
Phaleria glabra (Turrill) Domke
I
Wikstroemia foetida L. f.
I
T/S
T/S
sinu
mudu, masi, mataivi
W, T
W, T
I
I
T/S
T
nici, siti
W, T
W, T
E
T
I
X
T
S
mako
qatima
W, T
W, T
I
I
E
T/S
T
T
qwalau, drou
qwalau, drou
T
W
T
I
T/S
matauloboroko?
W, T
I
I
T/S
T
Dendrocnide vitiensis (Seem.) Chew
Elatostema australe (Wedd.) Hall. f.
Elatostema filicoides
(Seem.) Schroeter
Elatostema nemorosum Seem.
Leucosyke corymbulosa
(Wedd.) Wedd.
E
E
E
T
H
H
E
I
H
T/S
Pipturus argenteus
(Forst. f.) Wedd.
Procis pedunculata (Forst.) Wedd.
I
T/S
I
H
E
L
Lantana camara L.
Premna protusa A.C. Sm. & S. Darwin
Stachytarpheta cayennensis
(Rich.) Vahl
Vitex trifolia L.
X
E
X
S
T/S
S/H
I
S
Viticipremna vitilevuensis Munir
E
T
TILIACEAE (Linden Family)
Commersonia bartramia (L.) Merr.
Grewia crenata
(Forst.) Schinz & Guillaumin
Trichospermum calyculatum
(Seem.) Burret
Trichospermum richii (A. Gray) Seem.
Triumfetta rhomboidea Jacq.
ULMACEAE (Elm Family)
Parasponia andersoni (Planch.) Planch.
Trema cannabina Lour.
Celtis vitiensis A.C. Sm.
URTICACEAE (Nettle Family)
Cypholophus heterophyllus
(Wedd.) Wedd.
Cypholophus macrocephalus Wedd.
Dendrocnide harveyi (Seem.) Chew
VERBENACEAE (Verbena Family)
Faradaya ovalifolia (A. Gray) Seem.
4410
4447
W, T
stinging-nettle tree;
salato, kaukata
salato, salasalato
beta
beta
beta
matauloboroko,
dranigata, matadra,
karokaro koro
roga
wa lo?, wa korovudi
Wa vudi
lantana; lanitana
premna; araro, yaro
blue rat tail; se ni
karakarawa
blue vitex; drala,
drala kaka, vulokaka
bo cawa bo sawa,
4264
4289
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
4480
W, T
W, T
4477
4290
W, T
4338, 4473
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
4268
4376
102
drautolu
VISCACEAE (Mistletoe Family)
Korthalsella horneana van Tieghem
I
S
VITACEAE (Grape Family)
Cayratia seemanniana A.C. Sm.
E
V
W, T
4393
MONOCOTYLEDONAE
AGAVACEAE (Century-Plant Family)
Cordyline fruticosa (L.) A Chev.
I?
Furcraea foetida (L.) Haw.
X
S
H
ti-plant; vasili, qai
W, T
Mauritius hemp; natali W, T
A
A
H
H
W, T
W, T
X
A
I
E
H
H
V
V
X
H
E
E
E
T
T
T
saqiwa, niu sawa
BROMELIACEAE (Bromeliad Family)
Ananas comosus (L.) Merr.
X
H
pineapple;
W, T
COMMELINACEAE (Dayflower Family)
Tradescantia zebrina Bosse
X
H
wandering Jew
W, T
X
I?
A
H
H
H
codamu
W, T
W, T
W, T
4266
I
I
H
H
W, T
W, T
4275
4276
I?
I
H
H
o manini?
W
W, T
A
A
V
V
uvi ni veikau
bitter yam; kaile
T
W, T
ARACEAE (Aroid Family)
Alocasia macrorrhizos (L.) G. Don
Amorphophallus paeoniifolius
(Dennst.) Nicholson
Caladium bicolor (Ait.) Ventenat
Colocasia esculenta L.
Epipremnum pinnatum (L.) Engl.
Rhaphidophora spuria
(Schott) Nicolson
Xanthosoma sagittifolium
(L.) Schott
ARECACEAE (Palm Family)
Clinostigma exo
Veitchia joannis H. Wendl.
Veitchia vitiensis (H. Wendl.) Moore
CYPERACEAE (Sedge Family)
Fimbristylis dichotoma L.
Fimbristylis ovata (Burm. f.) Kern
Kyllinga nemoralis (Forst.)
Dandy ex Hutchinson
Hypoletrum nemorum (Vahl.) Spreng.
Mapania parvibracteata
(C. B. Clarke) T. Koyama
Mariscus cf. cyperinus (Retz.) Vahl
Scleria polycarpa Boeck.
DIOSCOREACEAE (Yam Family)
Dioscorea alata L.
Dioscorea bulbifera L.
caladium;
taro; dalo
taro vine; yalu
yalu, yalu tamaia,
yalu taqwane, yalu
tannia; doko ni
tana, dalo ni tana
o seni, vuti sa?
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
T
T
W, T
W, T
4445
103
Dioscorea nummularia Lam.
Dioscorea pentaphylla L.
spiny yam; tivoli
five-fingered yam; T
kaili tokatolu
T
FLAGELLARIACEAE (Flagellaria Family)
Flagellaria gigantea Hook. f.
I
H
ula
W, T
HELICONIACEAE (Heliconia Family)
Heliconia paka A.C. Sm.
E
H
wild heliconia; vava
W, T
I
E
misi?, misimisi?
W, T
A
T
banana, plantain;
W, T
I
I
I
I
I
I
E
I
I
E
E
E
E
E
H
H
E
E
E
E
E
E
I
I
I
I
E
E
H
E
E
H
I
I
E
E
E
H
I
I
E
I
I
I
I
E
E
E
E
E
H
E
E
LILIACEAE (Lily Family)
Collospermum montanum
(Seem.) Skottsb.
MUSACEAE (Banana Family)
Musa x paradisiaca L.
ORCHIDACEAE (Orchid Family)
Acanthephippium splendidum J.J. Sm.
Appendicula cf. bracteosa Rchb. f.
Bulbophyllum ebulbe Schltr.
Corymborkis veratrifolia (Reinw.) Bl.
Cryptostylis arachnites (Bl.) Hassk.
Dendrobium biflorum (Forst. f.) Sw.
Dendrobium kraenzlinii L.O. Williams
Dendrobium masarangense Schltr.
Dendrobium platygastrium Rchb. f.
Dendrobium prasinum Lindl.
Diplocaulobium tipuliferum
(Rchb. f.) Kraenzl.
Eria rostriflora Rchb. f.
Goodyera rubicunda (Bl.) Lindl.
Liparis condylobulbon Rchb. f.
Liparis cf. orbiculata L.O. Willliams
Malaxis cf. vitiensis
(Rolfe) L.O. Williams
Oberonia equitans (Forst. f.) Mutel
Oberonia heliophila Rchb. f.
Peristylus aliformis? (C. Schweinf.)
Renz & Vodonaivalu
Phreatia myosurus (Forst. f.) Ames
Phreatia micrantha (A. Rich.) Schltr.
Pseuderia platyphylla L. O. Williams
Robiquetia bertholdii (Rchb. f.) Schltr.
Schoenorchis micrantha Reinw. ex Bl.,
Spathoglottis pacifica Rchb. f.
Tropidia effusa Rchb. f.
Taenophyllum sp.
A
A
PANDANACEAE (Screwpine Family)
Freycinetia caudata Hemsl.
E
Freycinetia impavida
I
V
V
L
L
niuniu
viavia ni vikaikai
W, T
W
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W
W, T
W
W, T
viavia ni vikaikai
vavara, varavara
wa me
wa me
4352, 4353
4454
4450
4312
4372
4463
4474
4359
4307
4464
4373
4444
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
T
4478
4431
4423
4294
4425
W, T
T
4427
4321
104
(Hombron & Jacquinot) Stone
Freycinetia pritchardii Seemann
Freycinetia urvilleana
Hombron & Jacquinot
Pandanus cf. joskei Horne
PHILESIACEAE (Philesia Family)
Geitonoplesium cymosum
(R. Br.) A. Cunn. ex Hook.
I
I
I
L
L
l
wa me
wa me kai
W, T
T
rau vadra
W, T
scrambling lily; wa
bitubitu
W, T
4441
POACEAE (Grass Family)
Bambusa cf. multiplex (Lour.)
Raeuschel ex J.A. &J.H. Schultes
Bambusa vulgaris Schrader ex Wendl.
Centosteca lappacea (L.) Desv.
Coix lacryma-jobi L.
Dichanthium caricosum (L.) A. Camus
Imperata conferta (Presl) Ohwi
Miscanthus floridulus
(Labill.) Warb.
Panicum maximum Jacq.
Paspalum conjugatum Berg.
X
T
dwarf bamboo
W, T
X
I
A
X
I
I
T
H
H
H
H
H
W. T
W, T
T
W 4267
T
W
X
X
H
H
Paspalum orbiculare Forst.
I
H
Pennisetum polystachyon
(L.) J.A. & J.H. Schultes
Schizostachyum glaucifolium
(Rupr.) Munro
Sporobolus diander (Retz.) Beauv.
X
H
bamboo
o voti, luna
Job’s tears; sila
Nadi bluegrass
o tua?, gi
sword grass;
sina, gasau
Guinea grass; qini T
T-grass; kasei, kase,
karasi ni danudanu,
Dutch millet; o voti,
codurolevu
mission grass;
I
H
X
H
Sporobolus cf.jacquemontii Kunth
Vetiveria zizanioides (L.) Nash
X
X
H
H
native bamboo; bitu,
W, T
bitu dina
Indian dropseed;
T
o vatu?
wire grass; o vatu? W, T
vetiver grass
W, T
SMILACACEAE (Smilax Family)
Smilax vitiensis (Seem.) A. DC.
I
V
warusi
W, T
ZINGIBERACEAE (Ginger Family)
Alpinia boia Seem.
Alpinia cf. parksii (Gillespie) A.C. Sm.
Curcuma longa L.
Hedychium sp.
Zingiber zerumbet (L.) Sm.
E
E
X
X
A
H
H
H
H
H
vava driu, boia
W, T
T
W, T
W, T
W, T
turmeric
white/yellow ginger
wild ginger; cago
W
W
W, T
GYMNOSPERMAE
ARAUCARIACEAE (Norfolk-Island Pine Family)
Agathis vitiensis (Seem.)
E
T
Benth. & Hook. f. ex Drake
CYCADACEAE (Cycad Family)
Fiji kauri; dakua
4485
W, T
4262
4260
105
Cycas seemannii A. Braun
I
T
GNETACEAE (Gnetum Family)
Gnetum gnemon L.
I
T
PODOCARPACEAE (Podocarp Family)
Podocarpus affinis Seem.
E
Podocarpus neriifolius D. Don
I
T
T
logologo
W, T
W, T
Kuasi, asibolo
4381
T
W, T
PTERIDOPHYTAE
ADIANTACEAE (Maidenhair-Fern Family)
Adiantum cf. hornei Baker
E
H
Pteris ensiformis Burm. f.
I
H
ASPIDIACEAE (Shield-Fern Family)
Arachniodes aristata (Forst.) Tindale
Pleocnemia cumingiana Presl
Tectaria crenata Cav.
Tectaria decurrens (Presl) Copel.
Tectaria latifolia (Forst.) Copel.
I
I
I
I
I
H
H
H
H
H
sword brake
W
W, T
turalo, ota loa
W
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
ASPLENIACEAE (Asplenium Family)
Asplenium amboinense Willd.
I
Asplenium australasicum Hook.
I
H/E
H/E
Asplenium bipinnatifidum Baker
Asplenium cuneatum Lam.
Asplenium excisum Presl
Asplenium laserpitiifolium Lam.
Asplenium nidus L.
H
E
H
E
H/E
bird’s-nest fern;
T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
ATHYRIACEAE (Athyrium Family)
Diplazium melanocaulon Brack.
I
Diplazium proliferum Kaulf
I
H
H
W, T
W, T
4297
ota, lalabe, lalabi
BLECHNACEAE (Blechnum Family)
Blechnum orientale L.
I
H
Blechnum vittatum Brack.
I
T
W, T
4272
CYATHEACEAE (Tree-Fern Family)
Culcita staminea (Labill.) Maxon
Cyathea alta Copel.
Cyathea hornei (Baker) Copel. `
Cyathea lunulata (Forst.) Copel.
Dicksonia brackenridgei Mett.
I
I
I
I
I
H
T
T
T
H
I
I
I
I
I
DAVALLIACEAE (Leather-Fern Family)
Arthropteris repens (Brack.) C. Christ
I
Davallia fejeensis Hook.
E
E/H
E
bird’s-nest fern;
tevateva
W, T
W, T
4378, 4399
4308
Asiatic blechnum
fern; barakoto
vulo
balabala
tevateva
tevateva?
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
4434
4332
106
Davallia solida (Forst. f.) Sw.
Humata heterophylla (Sm.) Desv.
Humata polypodioides Brack.
Nephrolepis biserrata (Sw.) Schott
Nephrolepis hirsutula (Forst. f.) Presl
Nephrolepis tuberosa
(Bory ex Willd.) Presl
Leucostegia pallida (Mett.) Copel.
Oleandra neriiformis Cav.
Scyphularia pycnocarpa
(Brack.) Copel.
I
I
I
I
I
I
E/H
E
E
E/H
H
E
I
I
E
E
S
E
W, T
digi
sword fern; digi
turalo sa
DENNSTAEDTIACEAE (Dennstaedtia Family)
I
H
Microlepia speluncae (L.) Moore
Orthiopteris tenuis (Brack.) Brownlie
I
H
GLEICHENIACEAE (Gleichenia Family)
Dicranopteris linearis
I
(Burm.) Underwood
H
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
4476
W, T
W, T
W, T
4389
W
W
false-staghorn fern;
kavidi
T
GRAMMITIDACEAE (Grammitis Family)
I
E
Ctenopteris contigua (Forst.) Holttum
W, T
HYMENOPHYLLACEAE (Filmy-Fern Family)
Trichomanes apiifolium Presl
I
H
Trichomanes boryanum Kuntze
I
H
Trichomanes humile Forst.
I
E
Trichomanes bipunctatum Poiret
I
E
Trichomanes saxifragoides Presl
I
E
Trichomanes tahitense Nad.
I
E
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
HYPOLEPIDACEAE (Bracken-Fern Family)
Histiopteris incisa (Thunb.) J. Sm.
I
H
W, T
LINDSAEACEAE (Lace-Fern Family)
Lindsaea pacifica Kramer
I
W, T
4429
LOMARIOPSIDACEAE (Lomariopsis Family)
Bolbitis palustris (Brack.) Hennipman
I
H
Elaphoglossum milnei Krajina
E
E
Lomagramma polyphylla Brack.
I
H/E
Lomariopsis cf. brackenridgei Carr.
I
H/E
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
4449
4363
4368
LOXOGRAMMACEAE (Loxogramma Family)
Loxogramme parksii Copel.
I
E
W, T
4377
MARATTIACEAE (Marattia Family)
Angiopteris evecta (Forst.) Hoffm.
I
Marattia smithii Mett. ex Kuhn
I
H
H
H
king fern; bawale
bawali
W, T
W, T
4461
107
OSMUNDACEAE (Osmunda Family)
Leptopteris wilkesiana
I
(Brack.) C. Christ
H
W, T
POLYPODIACEAE (Common-Fern Family)
Belvisia mucronata (Fee) Copel.
I
E
tevateva
Dipteris conjugata Reinw.
I
H
vulo masei
Drynaria rigidula (Sw.) Beddome
I
E
tevateva
Phymatosorus nigrescens (Bl.) P. Serm.
I
E
Phymatosorus grossus
I
H/E
vativati,
(Langsd. & Fisch.) Brownlie
tevateva?
Polypodium subauriculatum Bl.
I
E
Pyrrosia adnascens (Sw.) Ching
I
E
SCHIZAEACEAE (Schizaea Family)
Lygodium reticulatum Schkuhr
I
Schizaea dichotoma (L.) J. Sm.
I
H
H
wasinasina
THELYPTERIDACEAE (Downy-Woodfern Family)
Christella harveyi (Mett.) Holttum
I
H
digi
Sphaerostephanos cf. invisus
I
H
digi
(Forst.) Holttum
VITTARIACEAE (Ribbon-Fern Family)
I
Vaginularia angustissima
(Brack.) Mett.
Vittaria elongata Sw.
I
W, T
4302
W, T
W, T
W, T
W, T
4303
W, T
W, T
W, T
W
E
W
E
W, T
4278
4426
FERN ALLIES
EQUISETACEAE (Horsetail Family)
I
Equisetum ramossisimum Desf.
H
LYCOPODIACEAE (Club-Moss Family)
Lycopodium carinatum Desv.
I
Lycopodium cernuum L.
I
E
H
Lycopodium magnificum Brownlie
E
E
club moss; momo
ko riqua
blue tassel fern
Lyopodium foliosum Copel
E
E
Lycopodium squarrosum Forst. f.
Lycopodium subtrifoliatum Brownlie
I
E
E
E
PSILOTACEAE (Psilotum Family)
Psilotum nudum (L.) P. B.
I
E/H
horsetail
W, T
W, T
W, T
4459
T
4482
club moss
W, T
4367
club moss
club moss
W, T
W, T
4305
4462
W, T
SELLAGINACEAE (Small-Clubmoss Family)
Selaginella firmula A. Br. ex Kuhn
I
H
W, T
Selaginella viridangula Spring
E H
W, T
4300
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
108
Appendix 2
Tree plot data from the Nakauvadra Highlands, Ra Province, Fiji
Marika Tuiwawa and Arthur Whistler
Table 1. Lowland Rainforest Vegetation - Creek Flat Forest (320 m.a.s.l.). Plot 1, Camp 1.
Species
Endiandra elaeocarpa
Dysoxylum sp.
Kingiodendron polycarpum
Gironniera celtidifolia
Dillenia biflora
Aleurites moluccana
Elattostachys falcata
Litsea sp. (cf. mellifera?)
Myristica castaneifolia
Parinari insularum
Elaeocarpus sp.
Dysoxylum richii
Degeneria roseiflora
Viticipremna vitilevuensis
Buchanania sp.
Macaranga sp.
Pagiantha thurstonii
Alangium vitiense
Syzygium sp. (big leaf)
Syzygium smithii
Veitchia vitiensis
Plerandra pickeringii
Alphitonia franguloides
Syzygium sp. (no. 6)
Glochidion sp.
Cynometra insularis
Cupaniopsis concolor
Palaquium porphyreum
Ficus fulvo-pilosa
Garcinia myrtifolia
Premna protusa
Baccaurea pulvinata
Semecarpus vitiensis
Terminalia sp.
Planchonella sp.
Dendrocnide vitiensis
Elaeocarpus sp. no. 2
Endiandra sp.
Syzygium malaccense
Ficus cf. scabra
Tabernaemontana pandacaqui
Myristica chartacea
No. of Trees
8
1
12
44
11
1
3
11
4
2
1
3
2
1
1
2
10
4
5
2
9
2
1
1
1
3
2
1
1
2
1
3
1
3
3
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
No.>15 cm
4
1
8
9
9
1
1
3
2
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
0
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Basal Area
8921
5942
5468
4603
3246
2550
2388
2357
2076
1888
1885
1820
1564
1451
907
793
786
719
587
510
496
447
415
415
380
375
355
314
204
161
154
127
113
113
112
88
38
38
28
28
28
28
Rel. Dom.
16%
11%
10%
8%
6%
5%
4%
4%
4%
3%
3%
3%
3%
3%
2%
2%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
109
Species
Syzygium cf. curvistylum
Gnetum gnemon
Totals
No. of Trees
1
1
172
No.>15 cm
0
0
59
Basal Area
28
28
54,966
Rel. Dom.
+
+
Table 2. Lowland Rainforest Vegetation - Slope Forest (320 m.a.s.l.). Plot 2, Camp 1
Species
Aleurites moluccana
Dillenia biflora
Gironniera celtidifolia
Syzygium cf. curvistylum
Endospermum macrophyllum
Dysoxylum richii
Myristica castaneifolia
Kingiodendron polycarpum
Cerbera cf. odollam
Veitchia vitiensis
Garcinia myrtifolia
Aglaia sp.
Parinari insularum
Endiandra sp.?
Veitchia joannis
Annonaceae sp.
Pagiantha thurstonii
Canarium vitiensis
Elattostachys falcata
Macaranga sp.
Palaquium vitilevuense
Glochidion sp.
Cryptocarya sp.?
Endiandra elaeocarpa
Palaquium porphyreum
Ficus cf. fulvo-pilosa
Anacolosa lutea
Semecarpus vitiensis
Gnetum gnemon
Litsea sp. (no. 2)
Syzygium sp. (no. 2)
Cyathea alta
Litsea cf. mellifera
Antidesma sp.?
Dendrocnide vitiensis
Baccaurea sp.
Planchonella sp.
Schefflera vitiensis
Cynometra insularis
Reedia membranacea
Total
No. of Trees
3
7
38
6
3
2
12
4
2
18
9
5
3
2
1
1
8
3
1
2
1
1
1
3
1
3
6
1
2
2
1
1
2
1
1
3
3
1
2
2
168
No. > 15 cm
3
6
4
4
2
2
3
1
2
0
2
2
1
2
1
1
0
2
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
48
Basal area
5804
3895
3736
3401
3268
2139
2001
1479
1363
1131
988
959
902
871
707
660
624
595
572
568
531
415
415
362
346
295
290
201
177
171
154
148
133
133
133
126
104
95
64
54
40,110
Rel. Dom.
15%
10%
10%
9%
8%
5%
5%
4%
3%
3%
3%
2%
2%
2%
2%
2%
2%
2%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
110
Table 3. Lowland Rainforest Vegetation - Slope Forest (Secondary) (320 m). Plot 3, Camp 2
Species
Gironniera celtidifolia
Glochidion sp.
Dysoxylum richii
Elattostachys falcata
Dysoxylum sp.
Bischofia javanica
Macaranga sp.
Alangium vitiense
Pagiantha thurstonii
Myristica castaneifolia
Syzygium malaccense
Cupaniopsis concolor
Ficus sp. (oblique base)
Planchonella cf. vitiensis
Saurauria rubicunda
Dillenia biflora
Plerandra pickeringii
Semecarpus vitiensis
Cyathea hornei
Citrus maxima
Litsea cf. mellifera
Cyathea lunulata
Ficus sp.
Endiandra elaeocarpa
Garcinia pseudoguttifera
Syzygium sp. (big leaf)
Ficus vitiensis
Aglaia sp.
Melochia cf. vitiensis
Calycosia petiolata
Total
No. of Trees
72
9
13
4
2
2
1
4
2
10
3
4
1
4
4
1
1
2
8
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
1
1
1
161
No. > 15 cm
8
9
8
4
2
2
1
3
1
2
1
3
1
1
1
1
1
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
51
Basal Area
5759
5235
4980
4323
2987
2846
1661
1399
1055
1038
1009
872
754
537
498
314
254
246
232
201
201
154
133
133
92
76
58
50
38
28
36,963
Rel. Dom.
16%
14%
13%
12%
8%
8%
4%
4%
3%
3%
3%
2%
2%
2%
2%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
111
Table 4. Lowland Rainforest Vegetation - Ridge Forest (440 m). Plot 4, Camp 2
Species
Parinari insularum
Dysoxylum richii
Syzygium cf. curvistylum
Pagiantha thurstonii
Myristica castaneifolia
Dillenia biflora
Endiandra elaeocarpa
Elaeocarpus cf. chelonimorphus
Veitchia vitiensis
Pterocymbium oceanicum
Hernandia olivacea
Planchonella vitiensis
Heritiera ornithocephala
Endiandra sp.
Garcinia myrtifolia
Gironniera celtidifolia
Vavaea amicorum
Gnetum gnemon
Cyathea lunulata
Indet. (cupule)
Elattostachys falcata
Syzygium sp. (big leaf)
Canarium harveyi
Cyathea alta
Dysoxylum sp.
Geisssois ternata
Kingiodendron polycarpum
Baccaurea pulvinata
Elaeocarpus sp. (narrow leaves) 1
Ficus sp. (small leaf)
Harpullia arborea
Aglaia sp.
Palaquium sp.
Viticipremna vitilevuensis
Pittosporum rhytidocarpum
Garcinia pseudoguttifera
Cyathocalyx sp.
Syzygium sp. (“dravu”)
Litsea cf. mellifera
Calycosia petiolata
Saurauria rubicunda
Garcinia sp. (no. 4)
Cyathea hornei
Haplolobus floribundus
Melochia cf. vitiensis
Alangium vitiense
Ficus fulvo-pilosa
No. of Trees
20
4
2
11
11
7
3
3
35
2
4
6
2
11
3
16
3
8
2
3
1
1
3
7
1
1
3
5
1
1
2
1
1
1
2
4
2
3
2
3
1
1
3
1
1
1
1
No. > 15 cm
11
3
1
6
5
3
1
3
0
2
2
2
1
1
1
0
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Basal Area
9466
4534
3310
2462
2193
1870
1727
1704
1690
1671
1502
1154
1130
917
874
654
624
584
579
547
415
415
374
339
314
283
368
255
254
227
215
201
154
133
129
128
126
108
102
98
95
95
94
79
64
50
38
Rel. Dom.
21%
10%
7%
6%
5%
4%
4%
4%
4%
4%
4%
3%
3%
2%
2%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
112
Species
Inocarpus fagifer
Syzygium smithii
Myristica chartacea
Total
No. of Trees
1
1
1
213
No. > 15 cm
0
0
0
53
Basal Area
38
28
28
44,339
Rel. Dom.
+
+
+
Table 5. Lowland Rainforest Vegetation – Dakua Forest (Primary)(425 m). Plot 5, Camp 1
Species
Agathis macrophylla
Geissois ternata
Metrosideros collina
Myristica castaneifolia
Elattostachys falcata
Trichospermum calyculatum
Dysoxylum sp.
Plerandra vitiensis
Aglaia sp.
Planchonella vitiensis
Baccaurea pulvinata
Veitchia vitiensis
Dillenia biflora
Pterocymbium oceanicum
Endiandra elaeocarpa
Rapanea sp.?
Plerandra pickeringii
Syzygium sp. (no. 3)
Planchonella sp.
Endospermum macrophyllum
Alangium vitiense
Terminalia sp.
Myristica chartacea
Pagiantha thurstonii
Cyathea lunulata
Syzygium sp. (no. 4)
Elaeocarpus sp.
Hernandia olivacea
Parinari insularum
Cynometra insularis
Cryptocarya sp.
Indet. (cupule)
Gironniera celtidifolia
Pleiogynium timoriense
Gnetum gnemon
Cyathea hornei
Indet. cf. Casearia
Litsea cf. mellifera
Cyathocalyx sp.?
Kingiodendron polycarpum
No. of Trees
2
2
4
9
6
1
7
1
8
2
24
21
6
2
6
7
3
4
7
1
5
2
4
4
2
1
2
1
5
3
2
2
2
4
6
7
3
1
1
3
No. > 15 cm
2
2
4
3
4
1
4
1
4
2
2
0
3
2
0
0
1
1
2
1
1
2
1
1
2
1
1
1
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Basal Area
18278
4238
3826
2998
2885
2375
2087
1963
1698
1674
1537
1467
1420
1031
748
660
650
627
598
572
524
523
441
372
367
314
274
254
245
242
233
229
197
189
182
172
135
133
133
120
Rel. Dom.
32%
7%
7%
5%
5%
4%
4%
3%
3%
3%
3%
3%
3%
2%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
1%
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
113
Species
Garcinia myrtifolia
Planchonella sp. (no. 1)
Calophyllum vitiense
Buchanania attenuata
Anacolosa lutea
Crossostylis seemannianus
Syzygium sp. no. 5
Calophyllum neo-ebudicum
Turrillia vitiensis
Decaspermum vitiense
Dendrocnide vitiense
Psychotria sp.
Syzygium sp. (no. 6)
Macaranga sp.
Indet. (aqueous veins)
Geniostoma sp.
Total
No. of Trees
2
2
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
162
No. > 15 cm
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
51
Basal Area
84
70
66
64
64
50
50
50
50
50
28
28
28
20
20
20
56,683
Rel. Dom.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
114
Appendix 3
Geographical positions of sites surveyed for herpetofauna in the Nakauvadra Range from
18th – 27th November, 2008.
Nunia Thomas
Site Name and description
Survey
Date
1. Track 1: Vatukacevaceva to
Base Camp 1
2. Va’ava’a Ridge
18/11/08
Local Name
(recorded during
survey)
Vatukacevaceva
Latitude/Longitude
18/11/08
Va’ava’a
3. (a) Diurnal Survey: Volivoli
Creek
Downstream of Base Camp 1
3. (b) Nocturnal Survey: Volivoli
Creek – 20m downstream of Base
camp 1
3. (c ) Diurnal Survey – Upstream
of Base Camp 1, along Nabiya
Stream
3. (d) Nocturnal Survey –
Upstream of Base Camp 1, along
Toluwalu Stream
3 (e). Nocturnal Survey –
Upstream of Base Camp 1, along
Nabiya Stream
4. Wainibe Stream– 20 – 30
minutes upstream of Vunisea
Village
5. (a) Vuniqesa Stream – Nocturnal
Survey: Adjacent to Base camp 2.
5. (b) Vuniqesa Stream – Diurnal
Survey: Around Base camp 2
5. (c) Vuniqesa Stream – Nocturnal
Survey: Downstream and behind
Base camp 2
6. (a) Ridge on track from Base
Camp 2 to Narara with vegetation
plot
6. (b) Ridge on track from Base
Camp 2 to Narara
7. Track 3: Track from Base Camp
2 to upstream Vavituka
8. Uluisupani – Diurnal survey:
from Navolau #2 Village to FSC
beacon on Uluisuvani
19/11/08
Vunilaci Stream
19/11/08
Vunilaci Stream
170 27’ 24.64 S
1780 05’ 55.68 E
20/11/08
Nabiya
170 28’ 119.61 S
1780 05’ 25.5 E
20/11/08
-
170 27’ 21.62 S
1780 05’ 55.37 E
20/11/08
Nabiya
22/11/08
Wainibe Stream
170 29’ 5.57 S
1780 08’ 15.66 E
22/11/08
Vuniqesa Stream
23/11/08
Vuniqesa Stream
23/11/08
Vuniqesa Stream and
dry tributary
170 27’ 46.48 S
1780 07’ 43.94 E
170 27’ 48.88 S
1780 07’ 44.63 E
170 27’ 48.88 S
1780 07’ 44.63 E
170 25’ 24.38 S
1780 05’ 25.5 E
170 26’ 23.36 S
1780 05’ 43.16 E
170 28’ 119.61 S
1780 06’ 35.38 E
170 27’ 23.37 S
1780 07’ 54.18 E
25/11/08
26/11/08
24/11/08
27/11/08
Upper Vuniqesa
Stream
Uluisuvani
170 26’ 50.82 S
1780 07’ 33.43 E
170 22’ 11.59 S
1780 13’ 37.58 E
115
Appendix 4
Details of individual frogs captured during herpetological surveys of the Nakauvadra Range
Nunia Thomas
Frog #
SVL (mm)
Weight (g)
P. vitianus
NT 2
18.70
1
1
NT 12
19.00
<0.5
1
NT 1
21.10
1
1
NT 20
25.30
0.5
1
NT 3
26.80
2
1
NT 9
28.80
2.5
1
NT 7
28.90
2
1
NT 18*
29.00
2.5
1
NT 11
32.60
4
1
NT 6
33.30
2
1
NT 21
33.70
2.5
NT 5
39.50
4
1
NT 13
39.80
6
1
NT 8
41.60
5
1
NT 16
42.90
7.9
1
NT 15
48.40
10
1
NT 17
56.60
15.5
1
NT 19
57.50
17.5
1
NT 14
60.30
22.5
1
NT 4
61.30
21.5
1
NT 18
62.80
25
1
NT 22
67.40
33
1
NT 10
76.90
41.9
1
* indicates frogs that were measured but not toe-clipped.
P. vitiensis
1
116
Appendix 5
Freshwater invertebrate taxa found at each site during surveys of the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Gilianne Brodie
Taxa
INSECTA
Ephemeroptera
Psuedocloeon sp.1
(early stage small
grey)
Psuedocleon sp. 1
(later stage large dark)
Coleoptera
Gyrinidae
Hempitera
Gerridae
Limnogynous sp 1
Limnogynous sp 2
(smaller distinct marks
on dorsum)
Odonata
Anisoptera sp. 1
(large dark)
Anisoptera sp. 2
(small pale)
Zygoptera
Nesobasis spp.
Lepidoptera
Pyralidae
Nymphula ?
Common
Name
Local Name
Mayfly
Mayfly
(larvae)
Mayfly
(larvae)
Beetle
Whirligig
beetle (adult)
True Bugs
Water strider
(adult)
Water strider
(adult)
Functional
Type
Stream
Site 1
Volivoli A
Stream
Site 2 *
Volivoli B
Stream
Site 3
Natoluwalu
Stream
Site 4
Nabiya
Other
Total
grazers
124
451
2
3
-
580
[USP5647]
[USP5648]
[USP5649]
[USP5650]
-
-
156
2
4
grazers
predator
33
121
[USP5651]
[USP5652]
-
-
2
[USP5653]
2
-
[USP5654]
larvae
predators
larvae
predators
6
5
[USP5656]
[USP5657]
-
2
[USP5655]
-
-
-
11
-
-
-
2
[USP5658]
Dragonfly
(larvae)
Dragonfly
(larvae)
Damselfly
(larvae)
caterpillar
Moth (larva)
Cece wai
predator
1
-
-
[USP5659]
Cece wai
predator
1
-
[USP5661]
predator
shredder
1
2
[USP5660]
3
2
[USP5662]
[USP5663]
51
8
18
3
[USP5664]
[USP5665]
[USP5666]
[USP5667]
10
5
10
1
[USP5668]
[USP5669]
[USP5670]
[USP5671]
6
80
26
117
Taxa
Orphoptera
Gryliidae
Common
Name
True crickets
(late nymph)
Local Name
Functional
Type
Stream
Site 1
Stream
Site 2
Stream
Site 3
Stream
Site 4
Other
Total
shredder/
predator
-
-
-
1
-
1
-
73
-
11
-
3
-
40
-
23
[USP5672]
Trichoptera
Hydropsychidae
Abacaria fijiensis
(dark front plates,
hairy posterior)
Philopotamida sp. 1
(elongate pale, no
hairs on posterior)
Polycentropodidae sp.
(hairy body)
Hydroptilidae
(Oxyethira sp.)
(clear triangular case)
Odontoceridae
(Tusk like sand case,
often dark)
Trichoptera sp. 1
Tusk like case (pale)
Trichoptera sp. 2
(elongate smooth case)
Trichoptera sp. 3
(elongate grainy case)
Diptera
Simuliidae
Similium jolli
Similium jolli
Caddisfly
Filter
feeders or
shredders
Net-spinning
caddisfly
(larvae)
Soft-lipped
caddisfly
(larvae)
caddisfly
(larvae)
caddisfly
(larvae)
14
12
32
[USP5673]
[USP5674]
[USP5675]
[USP5676]
1
2
3
5
[USP5677]
[USP5678]
[USP5679]
[USP5680]
-
-
-
3
[USP5681]
-
caddisfly
(larvae)
caddisfly
(larvae)
caddisfly
(larvae)
caddisfly
(larvae)
Blackfly
(pupa)
Blackfly
(larvae)
15
29
4
7
[USP5682]
[USP5683]
[USP5684]
1
21
-
1
[USP5685]
[USP5686]
1
-
[USP5687]
-
-
-
1
-
-
17
[USP5688]
1
2
14
[USP5689]
[USP5690]
[USP5691]
32
-
-
-
32
-
-
-
1
-
-
-
5
-
[USP5692]
-
1
[USP5693]
filter feeder
-
5
[USP5694]
118
Taxa
Common
Name
Culicidae
Aedes sp.
Chironimidae
Mosquito
(pupa)
Midges
(larvae)
Fly (adult)
Diptera sp. 1
Local Name
Functional
Type
Stream
Site 1
-
Stream
Site 2
Stream
Site 3
Stream
Site 4
Other
Total
1
-
-
-
1
32
-
38
-
-
1
[USP5695]
grazers
1
5
[USP5696]
[USP5697]
-
-
-
[USP5698]
1
[USP5698]
Unknown Insect
Pupa
Insect pupa 1 (brown
bubble like case)
Insect pupa 2 (tube
with net-like mottled
pattern)
Insect pupa 3
(segmented, mottled
brown)
Insect pupa 4 (clear 4sided case)
Insect pupa 5 (dark
segmented body)
Insect pupa
1
-
-
-
-
1
-
-
-
-
1
-
1
-
-
1
1
-
2
[USP5699]
Insect pupa
1
[USP5700]
Insect pupa
-
[USP5701]
Insect pupa
1
-
-
[USP5702]
Insect pupa
[USP5703]
-
-
-
-
1
2
2
-
-
-
4
[USP5705]
[USP5706]
90
1
[USP5704]
MOLLUSCA
Gastropoda
Melanoides lutosa
Melanoides
tuberculata
Fluviopupa ? sp.
Freshwater
snail
grazers
cici
ciri
9
28
22
26
5
[USP5707]
[USP5708]
[USP5709]
[USP5710]
[USP5711]
-
6
-
2
-
2
1
3
[USP5712]
[USP5713]
[USP5714]
-
-
CRUSTACEA
Ostracoda sp.
-
2
[USP5800]
119
Taxa
Common
Name
Local Name
Functional
Type
Stream
Site 1
Stream
Site 2
Stream
Site 3
Stream
Site 4
Macrobrachium cf.
latidactylus
long arm
prawn
Ura or urasa
shredder &
predator
-
-
-
-
Caridina cf nudirostris
shrimp
filter feeder
Other
Total
2 (site 2)
2
[USP5801]
7
2
8
1
[USP5802]
[USP5803]
[USP5804]
[USP5805]
-
18
-
43
PLATYHELMINTHES
Tricladia sp. 1
(Dugesiidae ?)
flat worm
Tricladida sp. 2
flatworm
predator
predator
22
1
18
2
[USP5806]
[USP5807]
[USP5808]
[USP5809]
-
-
-
1
1
[USP5810]
NEMATOMORPHA
Paragordius? sp.
Horse hair
worm (adult)
wa-lutu-mailagi
parasitic
larvae
-
predator
-
-
-
-
1
1
[USP5811]
ARACHNIDA
Araneae sp. 1
(1arge – elongate
body)
Araneae sp. 2 (small,
banded legs, network
on abdomen)
Araneae sp. 3
(Hydrachnellidae ?)
(larger globular body,
hairy)
Spider (adult)
1
-
-
-
1
-
-
-
2
1
-
-
1
-
-
3
-
25
10
1318
[USP5812]
Spider (adult)
predator
-
Water Spider
(adult)
predator
-
2
[USP5813]
-
[USP5814]
ANNELIDA
Segmented
Oligochaeta sp. 1
worm
(large with 2 distinct
parts)
Oligochaeta sp. 2
Segmented
(small simple)
worm
TOTALS
290
[USP no] = USP Collections acquisition numbers. * Only half of 100 m section sampled.
3
-
[USP5815]
10
11
4
[USP5816]
[USP5817]
[USP5818]
755
130
133
120
Appendix 6
Sites of interest for terrestrial insects in the Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Hilda Waqa-Sakiti
No.
ento 1
Name
Nesobasis angolicolis
Melanesobasis sp.
Latitude (S)
17º26'15"S
Longitude (E)
178º05'36"E
Elevation (m)
406
ento 2
ento 3
Papilio schemltzi
Leaf litter 1
17º26'19"S
17º26'27"S
178º05'42"E
178º05'45"E
476
541
ento 4
17º27'22"S
178º05'54"E
329
ento 5
ento 6
ento 7
ento 8
ento 9
ento 10
Base camp 1
Phasmotaenia inermis (syn. Hermarchus)
Liocheles australasiae (scorpion)
Light trap 1
Leaf litter 2
Leaf litter 3
Light trap 2
Tree beating 1
Tree beating 2
17º27'20"S
17º27'29"S
17º27'25"S
17º27'21"S
17º27'20"S
17º27'21"S
178º05'52"E
178º05'35"E
178º05'55"E
178º05'56"E
178º05'56"E
178º05'56"E
327
503
328
308
327
309
ento 11
Nisyrus spinulosus (synonym to
Cotylosoma)
ento 12
ento 13
ento 14
ento 15
ento 16
P. schmeltzi
Base camp 2
Buprestidae (jewel beetle)
Light trap 3
Light trap 4
Leaf litter 4
17º27'29"S
178º05'11"E
424
17º27'29"S
17º27'46"S
178º05'57"E
178º07'46"E
330
275
Comments
dry creek, 2º forest edge
1st sighting of P. schemltzi, host
plant Micromellum minitum found
within study area
mid-altitude, on gentle slope
near confluence of Volivoli and
Nabiya creek
adjacent to Nabiya Creek
mid-altitude, on very steep slope
low altitude leaf litter sampling
found within dakua (Agathis
macrophylla) plot camouflaged by
lichens on the tree bark
numerous sightings of P.scheltzi
and Danaus plexipus
A rarely encountered beetle family
17º27'20"S
17º27'47"S
17º27'47"S
178º05'52"E
178º07'43"E
178º07'45"E
327
249
253
121
Appendix 7
Water quality and habitat characteristics of sampling sites in Vunilaci and Vuniqesa Rivers, Nakauvadra Range, Ra Province, Fiji
Aaron Jenkins
Flow rate
(m/s)
Alt.
(m)
Temp (Co)
Sal (ppt)
pH
DO
(mg/L)
Cond (µS)
Turbidity
(NTUs)
17°28’19.00”S
178°06’36.57”E
0.3m/s
203
24.4
0.0
7.6
50.3%
129.4
<10
Site 2 MidVunilaci River
17°27’39.25”S
178°06’13.86”E
0.2m/s
235
24.0
0.0
7.2
57.6%
126.7
<10
Site 3 Upper
Vunilaci River
17°27’17.67”S
178°05’32.45”E
0.3m/s
280
23.5
0.0
7.6
60.3%
82.4
<10
Site 4 Upper
Vunilaci River
17°27’43.71”S
178°05’16.10”E
0.5m/s
285
23.8
0.0
7.3
73.4%
97.4
<10
Site 5 Upper
Vuniqesa River
17°27’29.63”S
178°07’44.50”E
0.2m/s
280
24.2
0.0
7.35
81.4%
91.1
<10
Site 6 Upper
Vuniqesa River
17°27’19.06”S
178°07’24.19”E
0.3m/s
285
24.0
0.0
7.23
82.6%
81.5
<10
Site 7
Headwater
Vuniqesa River
17°26’38.42”S
178°08’03.60”E
0.6m/s
289
23.5
0.0
7.1
73.8%
97.3
<10
Site
Latitude/
Longitude
Site 1 MidVunilaci River
A Rapid Biodiversity
Assessment of the
Nakauvadra Range, Ra
Province,
Fiji
_________________________________________
5. Participants and Contributors
_________________________________________
7. Organizational Proiles
_________________________________________
10. Acknowledgements
_________________________________________
11. Report at a Glance
_________________________________________
14. Executive Summary
_________________________________________
Conservation Internation
Conservation
International
2011 Crystal Drive, Suite 500
Arlington, VA 22202
C/O - National Trut of Fiji Building
3 Ma’afu Street, Suva, FIJI
23. Maps
_________________________________________
30. Images
_________________________________________
36. Chapters
_________________________________________
96. Appendices
_________________________________________
With generous support from: