Community Structure and Habitat Selection of Mammals in a Protected Area of the Sierra Madre de Chiapas

This study evaluated the influence of landscape elements on the community structure and habitat selection of medium- and large-sized mammals in La Frailescana Natural Resource Protection Area, Chiapas, Mexico. Specifically, we analyzed the influence of environmental variables (distance to water bodies, altitude, and vegetation types) and anthropogenic factors (distance to human settlements, roads, and agricultural areas) on the mammal community. We installed 21 camera trap stations, accumulating 1,549 camera-days of sampling effort. Diversity and relative abundance indices were calculated, and generalized linear models were applied to evaluate the relationship between landscape variables and recorded mammals. We recorded 19 species of medium- and large-sized mammals, belonging to 12 families and 7 orders. The most abundant species were Pecari tajac u and Nasua narica . Distance to water bodies had a significant negative effect on species abundance and richness, highlighting the importance of these water resources. Responses to human infrastructure revealed that P . tajacu , Urocyon cinereoargenteus , Odocoileus virginianus , and Puma concolor were more abundant away from human settlements, while rural roads generated varied responses. The results underscore the importance of considering landscape heterogeneity in conservation strategies. We recommend implementing measures that prioritize the conservation of key habitats, ensure connectivity between forest fragments, and minimize anthropogenic impacts to guarantee the persistence of biodiversity in the region.