Vertebrates respond differently to human disturbance: implications for the use of a focal species approach

摘要: Focal species are surrogates assuming that all under consideration respond similarly to the threatening processes. Focusing management only on a small number of would improve conditions for other species. However, across-taxa congruency response processes, and subsequent efficiency focal as surrogates, has seldom been tested. In this study, we evaluated effects recreational disturbance wood structure communities terrestrial vertebrates in patches large urban park. We measured two recreation: direct (people presence) litter (effect trampling). used multiple techniques assess distribution mammals, birds, reptiles amphibians 44 patches. Disturbance maturity influenced some richness reptiles; however, pattern was not consistent across within classes or among classes. The performance multi umbrella poor. Our results suggest specific differences same source can be strong; these hinder usefulness tool.