Use of camera traps in the research on terrestrial mammals in Brazil: history, methodological applications, and perspectives

Abstract

Camera traps are widely employed for studying terrestrial mammals worldwide. Over the past two decades (2003-2023), they have undergone numerous advancements and refinements, making their application possible for the most diverse study types. In this review, we aim to present a historical background, applications, and future perspectives on the use of camera traps in the research on terrestrial mammals in Brazil. We analyzed 339 peer-reviewed studies published between 2003 and 2023. The initial sampling years of these studies range from 1998 to 2020, with the majority (287 studies) concentrated from 2005 onwards. The studies were primarily focused on the southeast (132) and midwest (78) regions of Brazil - areas that historically receive more financial support and research assistance. The most featured biome was the Atlantic Forest (164), while the Caatinga and Pampa exhibited the lowest number of studies (30 and 8, respectively).  Most of the studies were focused on aspects of species composition and richness (93), occupancy and habitat use (70), and activity patterns (65). Considering the knowledge gaps on mammal occurrence and distribution in North and Northeast Brazil, we suggest directing research investments toward these regions, as well as for historically neglected biomes, such as Caatinga and Pampa.