Dissertation Research : The Nutritional Context of Hunting Decisions in the Bosawas Biosphere Reserve, Nicaragua

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Apart from deforestation, the over-hunting of game species is considered the greatest threat to tropical biodiversity. Much of this hunting is conducted by rural people who rely on hunted game to meet their daily subsistence needs. This dissertation research by a cultural anthropologist at Penn State University examines the economic, nutritional, and environmental effects on hunting decisions in the Bosawas Biosphere Reserve, Nicaragua. The researcher will accompany indigenous Mayangna and Miskito hunters on their forays into the forest, and local field assistants will concurrently collect data on unobserved hunts and alternative economic activities. These data will be used to test hypotheses about the ways in which hunters respond to household needs, climatic fluctuations, and wildlife abundance. In addition to furthering the education and training of a young social scientist, this project will contribute to theoretical issues in human ecology, particularly issues related to human adaptive strategies in tropical rain forest environments. Broader impacts: This research has practical applications for conservationist agendas throughout Latin America. Results of this research will enhance the feasibility of scientifically-based wildlife management plans for rain forest inhabitants, thereby promoting the long-term conservation of tropical forest ecosystems.