Permeability of commercial landscapes: integrating plantation forest trackways into ecological networks

• DOI: 10.1007/s10980-021-01229-3
• Publication Date: 2021-03-17T15:02:46Z
• Authors: Paul Wolstenholme; Scott M. Pedley
• Keywords: Guild; Landscape connectivity

Abstract Context Reconnecting fragmented habitat is a major challenge in biodiversity conservation. It especially important landscapes that have undergone significant change through agriculture and forestry conversion. This particularly prevalent within heathland regions across Western Europe where remaining fragments are significantly isolated intensely managed landscapes. Objectives study examines to what extent forest trackways can facilitate connectivity between open patches, how invertebrate dispersal ability (terrestrial or aerial) influences functional landscape connectivity. We also investigate range of management scenarios examine the efficacy plans for vulnerable communities. Methods develop Path-Cost Index ( PCI ) combines multiple environmental factors quantify species-specific suitability trackways. The generates cost values resistance-based models represent specific environments species/guild responses. demonstrate use this index modelling least-cost pathways invertebrates test (clustered contiguous improvements) developed support biodiversity. Results plantation provided barriers guilds. Landscape metrics indicate incorporating corridors would provide greater improvements over clustered target guilds our landscape. Conclusion presented delivered easily definable resistance costs allowing comparative assessment enhancements plans. be adapted other linear features landscapes, affording low-cost tool assist evaluation biological networks.