The underestimated role of small fragments for carnivore dispersal in the Atlantic Forest

摘要: Abstract Designing protected areas capable of supporting organism flow is critical for species persistence across wide scales. Here, we evaluated the capacity and protection level forest fragments to sustain connectivity carnivores in Atlantic Forest. We simulated potential dispersal considering spatial demands quantified importance patches with different sizes sustaining movement. found that smaller than home-range size represented more 95% used during dispersal. These small remnants play a key role upholding carnivores, especially moving long distances. Although structure did support most movements, our results showed some must cross matrices composed by crops pasture complete their trajectories. Moreover, between 29% 70% area around species' movement paths, which could act as corridors, overlap human activities. Current established – mainly targeted sustainable use cover only 15% entire extension enrolled reinforce conservation efforts should not overlook improve connectivity. Integrating restoration matrix management would benefit long-term persistence.