Using an index of habitat patch proximity for landscape design

摘要: A proximity index (PX) inspired by island biogeography theory is described which quantifies the spatial context of a habitat patch in relation to its neighbors. The distinguishes sparse distributions small patches from clusters large patches. An evaluation relationship between PX and variation characteristics showed that reduction isolation within cluster produced exponential increases PX, increase size those more modest linear PX. Simulations using neutral model landscapes were used determine effect scale analysis on Increased neighborhood considered around (proximity buffer) slope being dependent proportion interest landscape. was evaluate three alternative conservation reserve designs an agricultural landscape, comparisons made among consisting same area forest added `single, large` design greatest mean values landscape when total >= 842 ha, `several, small`