Priority Forests for Conservation in Fiji: landscapes, hotspots and ecological processes
Biodiversity Conservation
Akanisi Caginitoba
,
Al ipate Raikabula
,
Alex Patrick
,
Alivereti Bogiva
,
Craig Morley
,
David Olson
,
Dick Watling
,
Ingrid Qauqau
,
James Atherton
,
Kinikoto Mailautoka
,
Lemeki Lenoa
,
Linda Farley
,
Marika Tuiwawa
,
Moala Tokotaa
,
Sunil Prasad
,
Thomas Allnutt
,
Vilikesa Masibalavu
,
Waisea Naisilisili
Fijis National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Planencourages re nementstoconservation priorities based on analyses of new information. Here we propose a network of Priority Forests for Conservation based on a synthesis of new studies and data that have become available since legislation of the Action Plan in 2001. For selection of Priority Forests we considered minimum-area requirements for some native species, representation goals for Fijis habitats and species assemblages, key ecological processes and the practical realities of conservation areas in Fiji. Forty Priority Forests that cover 23% of Fijis total land area and 58% of Fijis remaining native forest were identi ed. The analysis con rms the majority of conservation priority areas previously identi ed, recommends several new areas, and supports the Government of Fijis policy goal of protecting 40% of remaining natural forests to achieve the goals of the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan and sustain ecosystem services for Fijian communities and economies.