Graph-based multi-attribute decision making: impact of road fencing on ecological network

摘要: Conservation and transport decision makers must deal with many competing criteria in order to find the optimal connectivity of habitat patches maximize organisms’ ability traverse landscape successfully. Thus, there is an increasing interest prioritization by their contribution overall connectivity. Many different indices can be used quantify structural functional However, alone do not clearly define conservation priorities for patches. In this study priority values each available patch were calculated using multiple spatial support techniques. As prioritization, graph-based element properties (habitat size, number corridors connected a patch, etc.) characterized patch. Graph-based rules within (in conjunction largest maximum minimum length defined applied. Each criterion’s importance was assessed. Criteria-based ranking graph better indicated exact critical than index alone, especially when changes network occur. Simulations case Lithuania showed that barriers (road fences keep animals off road) without prompt establishment animal crossings may realign complexes ecological networks reducing adjacent more distant Such become essential, sometimes only elements preserving realigned network.