Analyses of least cost paths for determining effects of habitat types on landscape permeability: wolves in Poland

摘要: Determining ecological corridors is crucial for conservation efforts in fragmented habitats. Commonly employed least cost path (LCP) analysis relies on the underlying matrix. By using Ecological Niche Factor Analysis, we minimized problems connected with subjective assessment or use of presence/absence data. We used data wolf Poland to identify LCPs connecting patches suitable habitat, factors that influence patch occupancy, and compare between different genetic subpopulations. found a lower proportion cities roads surrounds most densely populated patches. Least paths areas where little dispersal takes place (i.e., leading unpopulated subpopulations) ran through higher human settlements. They also crossed larger maximal distances over deforested areas. propose that, apart from supplying basis direct efforts, can be determine what might facilitate hinder by comparing subsets LCPs. The methods widely applicable gain more in-depth information potential barriers large carnivores.