The influence of fragmentation on the carnivores distribution on a landscape of Cerrado

The habitat fragmentation is a major cause of the decline of species in various regions of the world, and in the Brazilian savanna of Cerrado is no different. Regarded as one of the richest and most threatened ecoregions of the world, little is known about the effects of fragmentation on its biodiversity. The influence of fragmentation on the distribution of carnivorous mammals was evaluated by camera traps in the region of Aruana, in Goias State. There were recorded 8 species of carnivores in 10 of the 13 fragments sampled. Area and isolation did not have a significant influence over the distribution of these species. Some large carnivores such as jaguars were recorded in both large and small fragments, which does not mean that support viable populations but they could be used as a temporary source of recourse. A detailed analysis could be employed to verify the real survival conditions of species, particularly larger endangered species. Key words: fragmentation, Cerrado, carnivores, area, isolation.