Ana Rubia Schmitt Rossi
The expansion of road infrastructure poses a significant threat to biodiversity in fragmented landscapes, especially for tree species that depend on canopy continuity. In southern Bahia, the BA-262 road, known as the “Chocolate Road,” crosses a region of great biological importance, marked by the presence of cabrucas, agroforestry systems of shade-grown cocoa, which act as ecological corridors between remnants of the Atlantic Forest.
The construction of the Porto Sul Complex and the consequent increase in traffic on this highway intensify landscape fragmentation and the risk of wildlife being run over, affecting endemic and threatened species such as the Wied's marmoset (Callithrix kuhlii, Vulnerable) and the golden-headed lion tamarin (Leontopithecus chrysomelas, Endangered).
This project aims to install artificial canopy bridges at critical crossing points and locations with potential for roadkill, with the goal of evaluating their effectiveness in restoring functional connectivity for arboreal and semi-arboreal mammals, with a focus on two endangered primates.
Through a combination of camera trapping, direct visual sampling, and passive acoustic recorders, we will assess species presence, crossing frequency, behavioural responses, and collision mitigation. In addition to generating detailed ecological data, the project aims to transform BA-262 into a model road that is more friendly to arboreal fauna.
Making it a benchmark involves not only adopting direct enrichment measures, such as promoting connectivity through artificial bridges, but also recognising the importance of conserving existing natural bridges.
This dual approach highlights the need to engage stakeholders involved with the road and to hold workshops that disseminate best practices, promote awareness, and support decision-making.
In addition, this project will contribute to the conservation efforts of the National Action Plan for the Conservation of Atlantic Forest Primates (ICMBio, 2017) and initiatives to integrate biodiversity issues into infrastructure development in high-priority conservation areas