Human impacts on connectivity in marine and freshwater ecosystems assessed using graph theory: a review

摘要: Human activities are altering the processes that connect organisms within and among habitats populations in marine freshwater (aquatic) ecosystems. Connectivity can be quantified using graph theory, where or represented by ‘nodes’ dispersal is ‘links’. This approach spans discipline systemic divides, facilitating identification of generalities human impacts. We conducted a review studies have used theory to quantify spatial functional connectivity aquatic The search identified 42 published 2000–14. assessed whether each study impacts (1) habitat alteration (loss, links, gain), (2) movements causing species introductions, (3) overharvesting (4) climate change (warming temperatures, altered circulation hydrology, sea-level rise) ocean acidification. In systems was most commonly studied stressor, whereas overharvesting, terms larval protected areas, addressed. Few directly effects change, suggesting an important area future research. Graph representations revealed similarities across different systems, common strategies for conservation management. suggest research directions inform management