Levantamento de mamíferos em fragmento de Mata Atlântica mineira: Jardim Botânico da Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora

Abstract

The Atlantic Forest is one of the most threatened biomes worldwide, with much of its remaining fragments located in urban or peri-urban areas. In this context, wild mammals face constant pressures, including habitat loss, fragmentation, hunting, and the presence of exotic species, particularly domestic dogs. This study aimed to survey the mammalian fauna of an urban fragment of Atlantic Forest located in the Botanical Garden of the Federal University of Juiz de Fora between June 2019 and June 2024, using camera traps (2,099 camera- days) and direct observations. A total of 21 mammal species were recorded, 16 through camera traps and five exclusively by direct observations. The most representative orders were Carnivora (47.36%), Primates (15.78%), Pilosa and Rodentia (10.5% each), followed by Lagomorpha, Didelphimorphia, and Cingulata (5.26% each). Didelphis aurita was the most frequent species, accounting for 42.76% of the records. Species classified as nationally or regionally vulnerable, such as Leopardus pardalis, Puma concolor, and Chrysocyon brachyurus, were also recorded. The similarity analysis indicated a faunal composition consistent with previous studies in Juiz de Fora, suggesting regional stability. The findings reinforce the importance of management and conservation actions in urban green areas.