Publications
My research contributions span diverse topics in ecology, biogeography, and conservation, with a focus on amphibians, reptiles, mammals, and tropical ecosystems. Below is a selection of publications showcasing my work on species behavior, biodiversity, habitat use, and evolutionary dynamics in regions such as the Amazon rainforest.
Endemic and elusive trophic interactions: the first comprehensive description of the diet of short-eared dogs (Atelocynus microtis) in Amazon rainforests.
Champagne, P.S., Oliveira, H.F.M., Payne, C.J., Leite-Pitman, R., (2024). Endemic and elusive trophic interactions: the first comprehensive description of the diet of short-eared dogs (Atelocynus microtis) in Amazon rainforests. Foodwebs. 41, e00366. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fooweb.2024.e00366.
The short-eared dog (Atelocynus microtis) is the only endemic Amazonian canid species, which is also elusive and rarely recorded across its distribution, making it one of the least known canid species in the world. Even though it is considered to be a carnivore species, it has been reported to consume other food items, such as fruits. However, no comprehensive analysis of its diet is currently available in the literature. Here we report the first comprehensive analysis of the diet of wild and re-introduced individuals of A. microtis in the western Amazon (southeastern Peru). Its diet includes at least 34 distinct food items, including arthropods, vertebrates (fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals), fruits, and seeds. Our study confirms the potential of A. microtis to be considered omnivorous, as well as expands the known range of food items in its diet. As a mesocarnivore with an omnivorous diet, A. microtis has important potential implications for forest dynamics, such as seed dispersal and regulating prey populations, which should be further investigated.
Lowland Interior-Forest Stream Habitat of Galictis vittata (Carnivora: Mustelidae) on the Las Piedras Tributary, Southeastern Peru.
Champagne, P., Crnobrna, B., Kazmi, M., & Payne, C. (2024). Lowland Interior-Forest Stream Habitat of Galictis vittata (Carnivora: Mustelidae) on the Las Piedras Tributary, Southeastern Peru. Mammalogy Notes, 10(2), 408-408.
https://doi.org/10.47603/mano.v10n2.408
Records of Galictis vittata (Greater Grison) from the Amazon basin are sparse, particularly in the Madre de Dios region, where only three records have been published. This study elaborates on seven observations of Galictis vittata within and near small interior forest streams of the Las Piedras tributary in Madre de Dios, Peru. While G. vittata inhabits terrestrial environments, it has also been observed in association with aquatic habitats in parts of its range. Although limited to seven observations, all documented sightings of G. vittata in the Las Piedras region have been associated with stream ecosystems. Based on our records, prior research from the region, and known natural history of the species, we hypothesize that streams are a preferred habitat in Amazon rainforests. Additionally, we provide behavioral notes associated with the encounters.
A Description of the Northern Green Anaconda (Eunectes akayima sp. nov. Serpentes; Boidae): What Is in a Name?
Rivas, J.A., Terra, JS., Marijn, R., Champagne, P., Leite-Pitman, R., De La Quintana, P., Mancuso, M., Pacheco, LF., Burghardt, GM., Vonk, F.J., García-Pérez, J.E., Fry, B.G., Corey-Rivas, S. (2024) A Description of the Northern Green Anaconda (Eunectes akayima sp. nov. Serpentes; Boidae): What Is in a Name?. Diversity, 16(7), 418.
While elucidating the evolutionary trajectory of green anacondas, we previously documented the existence of two distinct species, Eunectes akayima sp. nov. and Eunectes murinus (Linnaeus, 1758), that separated approximately 10 million years ago. Our research integrates a novel molecular clock approach, focuses on tectonic plate movements with fossil records as minimal chronological markers, and offers a refined understanding of speciation events in relation to major biogeographical occurrences in South America. Mitochondrial DNA analysis demonstrates a significant genetic divergence between the species, which is supported by a notable difference in sexual size dimorphism (SSD) intensity between the two species, along with other morphological differences. This paper also rectifies earlier oversights in the description of the new species and clarifies taxonomic ambiguities in compliance with the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (henceforth ICZN). In addition, we designate a neotype for E. murinus to stabilize the group. In an effort to honor Indigenous nations, E. akayima sp. nov. derives its name from the Carib language, advocating for the inclusion of traditional names in scientific discourse. Our paper not only contributes to the taxonomic stability of anacondas but also advocates for the usage of Indigenous names in zoological nomenclature by adopting a more inclusive and flexible approach to the ICZN and eliminating unintended exclusionary practices that we have inherited in science as in other disciplines.
Initial assessment of the peatlands of The Upper-Ucayali Valley, Central Peruvian Amazon: Basic analysis of geographic products & predictors.
Crnobrna, B., Llanqui, A. I., Cardenas, A. D., Champagne, P., & Pisco, G. P. (2024). Initial assessment of the peatlands of The Upper-Ucayali Valley, Central Peruvian Amazon: Basic analysis of geographic products & predictors. Global Ecology and Conservation, 54, e03056.
We present an assessment of the tropical peatlands in the upper-Ucayali Valley in central Peru—an Amazonian region that has been largely ignored in ecological and wetlands research. We focused on groundtruthing and identifying the strongest landscape-level predictors of peat depth. The 2015 product from the Peruvian Ministry of the Environment (MINAM) appears to be a sufficient proxy, primarily due to its inclusion of the aguajal category, identified as bosque inundable de palmeras (Bi-pal) or palm swamp, which are typically associated with Amazonian peatlands. Aberrations in the MINAM product are also present in attempted updates addressing aguajales, wetlands, and conservation threats, regardless of the varied geographic methodologies employed by previous studies. Our analysis of the CIFOR Global Wetlands Map lends credence to these methodologies, although our results are inconsistent with the depth predictions contained within the product. The predictive strength of factors contained with the MIANM classification is explored, most notably contact segments indicative of transitions from high-terrace terra firma forests (bosque de terraza alta) directly to low-lying inundated and wetland zones. The potential of factors related to elevation (slope, rise, steepness) is likewise questioned based on their performance in multiple linear regression analyses. Future studies are needed to enhance our understanding of the hydrogeologic settings and associated geochemical attributes of palm swamps and peatlands in The Amazon.
Does the Southern Green Anaconda, Eunectes murinus, seek areas of high prey concentration in southeastern Peru?
Champagne, P.S., Herman, T.B., Rosolie, P., Singer, D., Horton, D., Payne, C.J., Dablin, L., Colville, D., Cardenas, J., Quevedo, M. & Avery, T., (2024). Does the Southern Green Anaconda, Eunectes murinus, seek areas of high prey concentration in southeastern Peru?. Food Webs, 39, p.e00348.
Although behavior of E. murinus was broadly described over a century ago, observations of predation by E. murinus are rare. Some evidence suggests that it may target sites when hunting. We report details of six livestock depredation events at a single locality near Puerto Maldonado, Peru. Additionally, we compare positions of three radio-tagged snakes with known locations of mineral licks in their home ranges and describe the relationship of a single radio-tagged individual with game trails. Our observations of predation at mineral licks, and the association of radio-tagged individuals with them, suggest that E. murinus may specifically target mineral licks due to high prey concentration. We believe this is the first report of a reptile actively seeking prey at mineral licks. Our observations indicate that E. murinus actively seeks areas with higher prey concentration.
Arboreal preferences contribute to sparse records of the Banded Galliwasp, Diploglossus fasciatus, (Gray, 1831) in lowland amazon rainforests.
Champagne, P.S., Thomas, S., Payne, C.J., Swamy, V., & Magan Roeder, J. (2024) Arboreal preferences contribute to sparse records of the Banded Galliwasp, Diploglossus fasciatus, (Gray, 1831) in lowland amazon rainforests. Herpetology Notes.
The Banded Galliwasp (Diploglossus fasciatus), a little-studied anguimorph lizard in South America, has been historically perceived as terrestrial. Recent observations challenge this notion, revealing arboreal behavior in the species. We present three new instances of D. fasciatus observed in arboreal habitats, including an adult found 30 meters high in a tree canopy. These observations suggest a potential bias in sampling towards ground-level habitats, possibly impacting our understanding of the species' ecology.
The great escape: Interspecific interaction and behavioral response to a semi-arboreal predator, the Tayra (Eira barbara), by a group of black-faced spider monkeys (Ateles chamek).
Payne, C. J., Pinasco, C., Lange, L. R., Champagne, P. S., & Ten Haaf, J. (2024). The great escape: Interspecific interaction and behavioral response to a semi-arboreal predator, the Tayra (Eira barbara), by a group of black-faced spider monkeys (Ateles chamek). Food Webs, 38, e00335. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fooweb.2024.e00335
This study presents a rare observation of a predator-prey interaction between a tayra (Eira barbara), a semi-arboreal predator, and a group of spider monkeys (Ateles chamek) in Madre de Dios, Peru. The observed pursuit of an A. chamek mother and infant by the E. barbara for an extended time period highlights the evasive tactics and aggressive responses displayed by the spider monkeys. This study reports the first instance of A. chamek as potential prey for the predator. Previous interactions between E. barbara and other primate species are reviewed, revealing varied behavioral responses, including evasion, mobbing, and intimidation. The findings suggest that predator avoidance measures typical of A. chamek, such as habitat avoidance and vigilance, may be less effective against a predator capable of pursuing them through the canopy. Notably, the observed aggression displayed by the spider monkeys towards E. barbara appears distinct compared to their known responses to other predators. Overall, this observation contributes to our understanding of predator-prey dynamics and the adaptive behavior of primates in the face of predation risks.
High mammalian diversity on the Las Piedras River tributary of Madre de Dios, Peru: An annotated list of species including comments on biogeography and regional conservation.
Payne, C. J., Champagne, P. S., O’Donnell, H., Lange, L. R., Rushford, C., Rosolie, P., & Rosenzweig, D. (2024). High mammalian diversity on the Las Piedras River tributary of Madre de Dios, Peru: An annotated list of species including comments on biogeography and regional conservation. Check List, 20(1), 152-183. https://doi.org/10.15560/20.1.152
Several mammal inventories have been reported from the lowland Amazon of Madre de Dios, Peru, but few have been reported for the Las Piedras River. Here we present a list of mammal species from the Las Piedras River. Over a period of seven years (2013–2020), we recorded the presence of mammal species, excluding bats and small rodents, using camera traps and opportunistic sightings. Our study area was near the Huascar-Las Piedras River confluence, 58 km north of the Madre de Dios River and covering an area of 22,430 ha. We recorded 60 species belonging to seven orders, 26 families, and 53 genera, including novel records for the Las Piedras tributary. Notable records reported include Leopardus cf. tigrinus (Schreber, 1775), Galictis vittata (Schreber, 1776), Saguinus imperator subgrisecens (Lönnberg, 1940), Cebuella niveiventris (Lönnberg, 1940), Cyclopes thomasi (Linnaeus, 1758), Coendou ichillus Voss & da Silva, 2001, and Caluromys lanatus (Olfers, 1818).
Predation of Atelocynus microtis (Carnivora: Canidae) by Panthera onca (Carnivora: Felidae) in Southeastern Peru.
Leite-Pitman, R., & Champagne, P. (2023). Predation of Atelocynus microtis (Carnivora: Canidae) by Panthera onca (Carnivora: Felidae) in Southeastern Peru. Mammalogy Notes, 9(2), 390-390. https://doi.org/10.47603/mano.v9n2.390
This study addresses the understudied predation ecology of Atelocynus microtis, a rare and Near Threatened Amazonian canid. We detail depredation events by the felid species, Panthera onca (Jaguar), observed in southeastern Peru in 2004. The observations were made during ongoing research, which includes radio-telemetry tracking and a reintroduction project. Given historical observed ecological overlaps, we also speculate that Puma concolor (Puma, Mountain Lion) could be a potential predator of A. microtis. Our findings expand the limited existing knowledge on the predators of A. microtis, suggesting a broader range of predators than previously identified.
Predation of Atelocynus microtis and Speothos venaticus (Carnivora: Canidae) by Boa constrictor (Squamata: Boidae) in Southwestern Brazil and Southeastern Peru.
Leite, R., Champagne, P., & Ferreira, E. (2023). Predation of Atelocynus microtis and Speothos venaticus (Carnivora: Canidae) by Boa constrictor (Squamata: Boidae) in Southwestern Brazil and Southeastern Peru. Mammalogy Notes, 9(1), 326-326. https://doi.org/10.47603/mano.v9n1.326
Literature on the predation ecology of Amazonian canids is scarce, especially for the two rarely observed canids; Speothos venaticus (Bush Dog) and Atelocynus microtis (Short-eared Dog). Between 2000 and 2005 we documented one observation of predation of a A. microtis from southeastern Peru and an observation of S. venaticus predation from southwestern Brazil.
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An unprecedented and unprovoked attack by a free‐ranging ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) in the Peruvian Amazon.
Champagne, P. S., Pitman, R. L., Lescano, J., & Payne, C. J. (2023). An unprecedented and unprovoked attack by a free‐ranging ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) in the Peruvian Amazon. Biotropica, 55(1), 24-28. https://doi.org/10.1111/btp.13176
We describe an incident of a wild ocelot that attacked a group of people in Southeastern Peru. Based on recorded evidence and scientific literature, we hypothesize disease affecting the central nervous system or human-induced trauma as possible explanations for this abnormal behavior.
Ecology of Eunectes Murinus (Green Anaconda) in the Madre de Dios Region of Southeastern Peru Using Remote Sensing Techniques and Machine Learning Driven Geospatial Modeling (MSc dissertation, Acadia University).
Champagne, P.S. 2022. Ecology of Eunectes Murinus (Green Anaconda) in the Madre de Dios Region of Southeastern Peru Using Remote Sensing Techniques and Machine Learning Driven Geospatial Modeling (MSc dissertation, Acadia University). Acadia University. Pp 154. OCLC number: 1369199142
Eunectes murinus is a large species of aquatic snake from the family Boidae that inhabits the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Most of the information on the species’ ecology is based on studies in Venezuela and northern and eastern Brazil. Descriptions from closed canopy rainforest systems are limited mainly to short notes and sparse observations. Between 2012 and 2021 I aggregated positions of E. murinus data from multiple localities in the Madre de Dios region of Peru. Positions were acquired during periods of intensive surveying, opportunistic encounters, radio telemetry tracking, and analysis of data acquired during other faunal surveys in the region. The information was combined with remotely sensed data products in ArcGIS Pro for spatial analysis and geospatial modelling. In addition to general results pertaining to the ecology of the
species, I address two questions about the predatory habits of E murinus: 1) Is the predation behaviour of E. murinus a critical aspect of its conservation? And 2) Does E. murinus target areas of higher prey density and occurrence frequency? During the study 52 individual E. murinus were recorded and four adults were tagged with radio transponders. Snakes were found throughout the study area occupying rivers, small open canopy streams, Maurtia sp. dominated palm swamps, oxbow lakes and human created habitats such as cattle ponds and mining pools. Permanent presence of water and open canopy were determined as two essential variables associated with E. murinus habitat. Results of habitat preference and hydrology mapping were
used to produce minimum, maximum and random forest distribution models in the eastern portion of the region. The results from the home range analysis, and a review of individual positions indicate that E. murinus have defined home ranges, and display site fidelity. The activity patterns of snakes in Mauritia palm systems and the affiliation of riverine and stream snakes with mineral licks and game trails demonstrate that E. murinus target areas of higher prey occurrence and are likely more active as predators in these systems than previously described. Several aspects of the results highlight conservation implications for the species in Southeastern Peru and understanding the predation ecology and diet of E. murinus will be essential for addressing the conversation of population in the Madre de Dios region.
Las Piedras Biodiversity Station Field Station Profile.
Champagne, P.S. (2024). Las Piedras Biodiversity Station Field Station Profile. Ecotropica. 26: 202403. https://doi.org/10.30427/ecotrop202403
The Las Piedras Biodiversity Station (LPBS), also known as
Alta Sanctuary, is located in the central area of the Las Piedras River tributary in the Madre de Dios region of southeastern Peru (Figure 1A, B). The LPBS is a privately protected
conservation area (“Area de Conservación Privada”). It covers 589 ha and is surrounded by several larger and sustainably managed Brazil nut, ecotourism, and conservation
concessions (ca 20,000 ha) (Payne et al., 2024). The habitat is consistent with the typical characteristics of the lowland Amazon rainforest under 500 m in the Madre de Dios
region.
Imantodes cenchoa (Blunt-headed Tree Snake). Predation.
Turner, H., Rosolie, P., Champagne, P.S., Payne, C.J. 2023. Imantodes cenchoa (Blunt-headed Tree Snake). Predation. Herpetological Review, 54(3).
We describe an observation of a fishing spider (Ancylometes sp.) killing and partially consuming an Imantodes cenchoa (Blunt-headed Tree Snake) in Tambopata, Peru.
Tantilla melanocephala (Black-headed Centipede Snake). Basking behaviour.
Champagne, P.S., Payne, C.J. 2023. Tantilla melanocephala (Black-headed Centipede Snake). Basking behaviour. Herpetological Review, 54(3).
We describe an observation of a Tantilla melanocephala basking on a trail near the Los Amigos and Madre de Dios rivers, Southeastern Peru.
Chironius fuscus (Brown Sipo). Leaf-cutter Ant nest use.
Leite, R.L., Champagne, P.S. & Payne, C. J. (2023). Chironius fuscus (Brown Sipo). Leaf-cutter Ant nest use. Herpetological Review, 54(3), 480. 2023. https://ssarherps.org/herpetological-review-pdfs/
We present observations of Chironius fuscus (Brown Sipo) partially buried for extended periods within Leaf-Cutter Ant nests.
Diploglossus fasciatus (Banded Galliwasp). Habitat use and escape behavior.
Champagne P.S., Payne. C.J., Singer, D., & Horton, D. (2023). Diploglossus fasciatus (Banded Galliwasp). Habitat use and escape behavior. Herpetological Review, 54(2), 294-295. https://ssarherps.org/herpetological-review-pdfs/
Previous accounts categorized Diploglossus fasciatus as a terrestrial lizard with limited ecological information. However, our observation in Peru revealed unexpected behaviors. A D. fasciatus perched high in a tree, displaying arboreal tendencies, and exhibited a remarkable escape mechanism by jumping from its perch. Burrowing behavior was also documented, with the lizard creating a 30 cm deep burrow in a crevice between the tree's roots and soil.
Drymobius rhombifer (Esmerald Racer). Predation.
Leite, R., & Champagne, P. (2022) Drymobius rhombifer (Esmerald Racer). Predation. Herpetological Review, 53(2), 340-341. https://ssarherps.org/herpetological-review-pdfs/
Platemys platycephala (Twist-necked Turtle). Predation.
Champagne, P.S. (2022). Platemys platycephala (Twist-necked Turtle). Predation. Herpetological Review, 53(3), 490-491. https://ssarherps.org/herpetological-review-pdfs/
Osteocephalus taurinus (Manu Slender-legged Frog). Predation.
Leite, R., & Champagne, P. (2022) Osteocephalus taurinus (Manu Slender-legged Frog). Predation. Herpetological Review, 53(2), 296. https://ssarherps.org/herpetological-review-pdfs/
Ranitomeya sirensis (Bamboo Dart Frog). Oviposition site choice.
Singer, D., & Champagne, P. (2019). Ranitomeya sirensis (Bamboo Dart Frog). Oviposition site choice. Herpetological Review, 50(2), 343. https://ssarherps.org/herpetological-review-pdfs/
Clelia clelia (Black-Headed Musurana). Diet and Prey Size.
Champagne, P., & Singer, D. (2021). Clelia clelia (Black-Headed Musurana). Diet and Prey Size. Herpetological Review, 52(4), 865. https://ssarherps.org/herpetological-review-pdfs/
We observed an adult Musurana (Clelia clelia) consuming a larger Spilotes pullatus
Drymarchon corais (Yellow-tailed Creebo). Ophiophagy.
Champagne, P., Rosolie P., & Payne, C. (2021) Drymarchon corais (Yellow-tailed Creebo). Ophiophagy. Herpetological Review, 52(4): 870-871. https://ssarherps.org/herpetological-review-pdfs/
We provide two new ophidian prey items for Drymarchon corais and a description of the events observed near the Las Piedras River, Madre de Dios, Peru.
Engystomops petersi (Peter’s Dwarf Frog). Predation.
Champagne, P., Crnobrna, B., & Luder, K. (2015) Engystomops petersi (Peter’s Dwarf Frog). Predation. Herpetological Review, 46 (2), 230-231. https://ssarherps.org/herpetological-review-pdfs/
We report an observation of an Ancylometes sp. killing and consuming an Engystomops petersi in Madre de Dios, Peru.
Paleosuchus trigonatus (Schneider’s smooth-fronted caiman) feeding behavior.
Champagne, P., Mockford, S., & Kirkby, C. (2015). Paleosuchus trigonatus (Schneider’s smooth-fronted caiman) feeding behavior. Herpetological Review 46, 249. https://ssarherps.org/herpetological-review-pdfs/
We report feeding events of juvenile Paleosuchus trigonatus on two aquatic vertebrates and an invertebrate.
