Effectiveness of land classes as surrogates for species in conservation planning for the Cape Floristic Region

摘要: Land classes are often used in conservation planning as surrogates for species. The relationship between these and the distribution of species is usually assumed but rarely tested. Using broad habitat units (BHUs) to represent biodiversity pattern Cape Floristic Region, together with point locality data (proteas selected vertebrates), we calculated effectiveness BHUs Our were grid cells about 40 km(2), boundaries existing reserves. After assigning targets BHUs, derived minimum sets meet all irreplaceability values (irreplaceability measures likelihood a unit being required achieve targets). Results showed that good majority protea species, not vertebrate or small subset These shared following characteristics: rarity, limited ranges, Red Data Book status, specialised habitats defined by distributions driven historical rather than contemporary ecological factors. We show targeting land simultaneously viable option requires only 0.1-0.8% more (depending on targets) alone. conclude recommending two different strategies combining class planning, depending availability.. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.