Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 5.17 Ants have a special relationship with acacias. They protect the tree from
herbivory and in return the tree provides the ants with food and shelter.
(Photo by author.)
and tribal wars, hundreds of thousands of people have migrated to the forest seek-
ing protection or peace. Often out of necessity, these people are damaging the for-
est by hunting and clearing land. Trade in bushmeat is becoming a greater threat as
exploited agricultural lands are no longer able to produce an economical source of
protein. Meat from forest animals is the primary source of protein for people in ru-
ral areas as well as in some cities. Forestry operations often support the hunting of
large game by providing access to forests and facilitating transport of meat from
forest to cities.
On the Cape Verde Islands, the introduction of exotic species, such as rats,
sheep, goats, cattle, and green monkeys have devastated the native flora and fauna.
Overgrazing by livestock has resulted in extensive soil erosion, and the demand for
wood has resulted in deforestation and desertification of much of the remaining
