A Framework to Integrate Habitat Monitoring and Restoration with Endangered Insect Recovery

摘要: Monitoring is essential to track the long-term recovery of endangered species. Greater emphasis on habitat monitoring especially important for taxa whose populations may be difficult quantify (e.g., insects) or when true (delisting) requires continuous species-specific management. In this paper, we outline and implement a standardized framework facilitate integration with species efforts. The has five parts: (1) identify appropriate sample units, (2) select measurable indicators requirements, (3) determine rating categories these indicators, (4) design data collection protocols, (5) synthesize ratings into an overall measure potential. Following steps, developed set criteria estimate potential initially assess restoration activities in context recovering insect, Karner blue butterfly (Lycaeides melissa samuelis). We recommend basing grading scheme plan criteria, latest information biology, working hypotheses as needed. habitat-based assessment helps which areas patches are worth investing what type site-specific work propose that transparency decision-making process insect efforts could improved through adaptive management explicitly identifies tracks progress toward objectives ultimate population recovery.