A tale of two species: the importance of native ecosystems for long-term conservation on Príncipe Island, Gulf of Guinea

Abstract Since it was first described in 1901, the Príncipe thrush Turdus xanthorhynchus has been rare and restricted to native forest south of Island. The Obô giant land snail Archachatina bicarinata , however, widespread across island at least locally abundant until 1990s. then its population collapsed, now, like thrush, is also island. Using species distribution modelling, we show that both are currently strongly associated with rugged remote areas high altitudes. We argue their current might be negatively affected by anthropogenic pressures, as harvested, because invasive alien expected have deleterious effects on these species, although further studies needed clarify interactions between introduced species. diachronic stories highlight an overlooked value ecosystems: role conservation unable use landscapes future. They reinforce need for protected strive exclude most human activities context particularly sensitive biodiversity, often case oceanic islands.