Impacts of Air Pollution on Richness and Abundance of Bird Species in Phnom Penh Urban Habitats

Abstract

In Cambodia, there has been no study on the effects of air pollution on birds. Accordingly, the purpose of this study aims to assess the species richness and abundance of birds, to understand air quality status and possible sources of air pollution, as well as to investigate the relationship between the variables of air quality (PM2.5, SO2, NO2, and O3), and bird diversity in two different habitats in Phnom Penh. The study was conducted from February 21 to May 21, 2022, at two study sites: 1) the Royal University of Phnom Penh (RUPP) and 2) the Royal University of Agriculture (RUA). Both universities are located in Phnom Penh. The two areas are structured by vegetation which suitable for birds. We used a point count method to observe and record the number and species of birds in both study areas. The study recorded 18,334 observation individuals (counting), arranged in 50 species, 40 genera, 25 families, and 9 orders. At the RUPP, we recorded 11,190 individuals (counting), arranged into 34 species, 29 genera, 21 families, and 7 orders. In the RUA, we recorded 7,144 observation individuals (counting), arranged into 46 species, 38 genera, 25 families, and 9 orders. An observation of human activities can be a source of air pollution, including transportation, stationary sources, urban development, open burning, etc. The air quality parameters at both study sites were still lower than the air pollution standards set by the Royal Government of Cambodia (RGoC). Among air quality variables, only SO2 and O3 affect birds, but to a lesser degree. Factors that affect birds may be due to green areas, including the number of small and large trees, food sources, and human disturbances.