Identifying conservation priorities when data are scanty: A case study with small mammals in Italy

摘要: Species prioritisation is an important component of conservation strategies. However, identifying species that are threatened not easy for many taxa lack detailed information on distribution and population trends. We propose a ranking system small mammals, based their degree vulnerability value. Scores were derived from data life history traits ecological requirements individual species, with respect to sensitivity changes in landscape the composition qualities ecosystems. Twelve variables considered, related distribution, demography, adaptability, endemism taxonomic diversification. Rodents highest score values either characteristic mountain habitats (Apodemus alpicola, Chionomys nivalis Marmota marmota), typical lowlands (Micromys minutus) or forest (dormice), they also short living, few reproduction events. Top Soricomorpha endemic (Crocidura sicula, C. pachyura), range restricted (Sorex alpinus, Talpa caeca) habitat specialists (Neomys fodiens, N. anomalus), further characterised by low reproduction, dispersal ability, elevation range. The factors used able emphasise localised endemisms could be recognised future whenever subspecies should promoted rank species. Soricomorpha, highlighted IUCN national red list as nearly absence information, ranked at top our list. methodological framework proposed here when pool needs evaluated investigation actions, helping focusing more sensitive have intrinsic