Evaluation of habitat protection under the European Natura 2000 conservation network – the example for Germany

摘要: In Europe, the world9s largest network of protected areas - Natura 2000 (N2000) has been implemented to protect Europe9s biodiversity. N2000 is built upon two cornerstones, Birds Directive and Habitats (HD), which lists 230 bird species habitat types, respectively, be protected. Despite sites designated date are reported represent target habitats quite well, especially in terrestrial realm, European biodiversity still on a steady decline. This leaves us wondering how effective current are; question that led ambigious results for part directive, while habitats9 representativeness received very little attention scientific literature altogether. Here we developed generic workflow, exemplified Germany, assess status coverage within network, combining information from publicly available data sources. Applying workflow allows identifying gaps protection, followed by prioritization potential high protection value, using conservation planning software Marxan. We found that, covers all habitats. However common were proportionally underrepresented relative rare ones, contrasting comparable studies species. Moreover, German case study suggests highly units (i.e. covered more than 90% with sites) build an excellent basis towards cost-effective efficient network. Our provides approach deal popular problem missing outside sites, however crucial managers plan action appropriately across Europe. To avoid biased representation types N2000, our underpin importance defining tangible targets will allow assessing trajectory Europe as well adjusting accordingly future necessity light climate change.