Key connectivity areas in the Llanganates-Sangay Ecological Corridor in Ecuador: A participative multicriteria analysis based on a landscape species

• DOI: 10.1016/j.landurbplan.2024.105039
• Publication Date: 2024-03-05T05:20:44Z
• Authors: Gorky Ríos-Alvear; Pablo Meneses; H. Mauricio Orteg...; Cinthya Santos; Aymé Muzo; Karima G. López; Alexander Griffin...; Francisco Villamarín
• Keywords: Landscape connectivity

Habitat loss and fragmentation are critical threats to biodiversity decline as they decrease the species occurrence dispersal probability between natural habitats. Thus, promoting habitat connectivity supports accessibility vital resources within landscape, contributes long term population persistence. However, decision-making in human dominated landscapes challenges sustainability of conservation-based land management initiatives. The Llanganates – Sangay Ecological Corridor is located on eastern slopes Ecuadorian Andes, harbouring high levels endemism a human-dominated landscape two National Parks. We applied circuit analysis model for Mountain Tapir. defined limits corridor based Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis spatial suitability approach combined with sub-basin prioritization method. found that forest native grasslands contribute most Tapir's movements, while roads constrain them most. Furthermore, vegetation remnants pastures crops support stepping-stones. identified distance conservation areas crucial features suitability. Our study scientific information identify key providing necessary sustaining wildlife conservation, supporting participation local stakeholders, conservationists, academia, NGOs.