Habitat loss, fragmentation and predator impact: spatial implications for prey conservation

摘要: Summary 1 Because predators threaten the survival of endangered prey in many places, predator management is a widespread conservation tool. At same time, effects on their are greatly influenced by landscape structure. Therefore, landscapes could be an alternative to regulation. 2 A spatially explicit presence/absence model (a stochastic one-layer cellular automaton) was used investigate two different predator–prey systems that were subject changes number and size habitat patches landscape. 3 The first scenario included grey-sided voles Clethrionomysrufocanus, Norwegian lemmings Lemmus lemmus small mustelids (stoats Mustelaerminea weasels M. nivalis) interacting tundra landscape. In second scenario, effect perforation human settlements with subsidized (house cats Felis silvestris catus) dynamics (as surrogate for prey) studied. 4 Both total area lemming degree fragmentation important determinants population persistence lemmings. A qualitative change observed when decreased from 70% (positive effect) 50% (negative effect). When covered or less landscape, had negative viability, even though did not decrease. 5 The spatial configuration as sources important. few evenly spaced populations than proportion randomly distributed, which turn patches. 6 Including decrease predators’ impact occurred patches. 7 It concluded viable strategy combat threat prey, but careful planning pattern compensate predation effects. The location should optimized order minimize visiting adjacent areas natural habitat.