Assoc. Professor Dr. Mohd Azlan Jayasilan bin Abdul Gulam Azad

Department of Zoology, FRST, UNIMAS

Research Interests:

I am interested mainly in conservation biology and animal ecology. Sarawak is particularly an interesting place to study wildlife because of its rich biodiversity with relatively highendemicity. Deforestation and land conversions to oil palm have accelerated in many parts ofSouth-east in recent decade. This has posed various threats to local wildlife, particularly those which are endemic to Borneo. This has called for a rapid assessment and protection of the flora and fauna without hindering the development of the local socio-economic.

Adding on to the pioneers’ works in Sarawak, I studied the distribution and conservation of terrestrial mammals and in recent times I am keen to work on birds for various reasons. I have used various techniques to understand the complexity of animal distribution and ecology in this region. I have worked on carnivores, chiropterans, and birds. I have worked in Northern Australia, Peninsular Malaysia, Malaysian Borneo, as well as in Kalimantan, and currently keen to work on community ecology related studies. This involves, species-area relationship, effect of disturbance and spatial matrices and foraging ecology.

Expertise:

Conservation Biology