Estimating the loss and fragmentation of dark environments in mammal ranges from light pollution

摘要: Abstract A hallmark of the Anthropocene is global expansion pollution stemming from electric lighting. This evolutionarily novel phenomenon has left few spaces on Earth where natural light cycles remain unaltered. Assessing exposure species to critical for developing conservation plans that address this expanding sensory pollutant. Here we used data NASA's Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite determine contribution full moonlight radiance establish an ecologically-informed threshold radiance. Using geographic ranges 351 mammals across contiguous United States, estimated percentage each species' range in which exceeded thresholds associated with direct emissions and skyglow, it did not (“dark environment”), fragmentation dark environments. Average mammal contained 2.6% (95% CI: 2.3–3.2%) area consistently moon at point-source emissions, but a large among (0–47.4%). Skyglow affected far greater percentages ( X ¯ = 24.3%; 95% 22.1–26.8%). Nocturnal had slightly than diurnal species. Several families most impacted included concern (e.g., Molossidae; free-tailed bats). When assessing connectivity environments, found fragmented resulted isolated refugia 154% average increase patches environments). Identifying greatest environment important step targeted efforts remaining light-sensitive