Effects of landscape and patch-level attributes on regional population persistence

摘要: Abstract Species responses are influenced by processes operating at multiple scales, yet many conservation studies and management actions focused on a single scale. Although landscape-level habitat conditions (i.e., amount, fragmentation landscape quality) likely to drive the regional persistence of spatially structured populations, patch-level factors patch size, isolation, may also be important. To determine spatial scales which influence endangered Ord's kangaroo rats (Dipodomys ordii) in Alberta, Canada, we simulated population dynamics under range conditions. Using spatially-explicit model, removed groups patches based their characteristics measured resulting time extinction. We used proportional hazards models rank interacting variables. Landscape quality was most influential variable followed quality, with both outweighing landscape- measures quantity fragmentation/proximity. restoration priorities for this should maximizing overall landscape, depends how goal is achieved. Patch exerted significant persistence, removal low road margin (sinks) reducing risk Strategies that omit considerations produce suboptimal or detrimental results particularly where complex local (e.g., source-sink dynamics) exist. This study contributes growing body literature suggests prediction species future best assessed multi-scale approach considers success depend assessing influences scales.