作者: Chantel E. Markle , Gillian Chow-Fraser , Patricia Chow-Fraser
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0192134
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摘要: Point Pelee National Park, located at the southern-most tip of Canada's mainland, historically supported a large number herpetofauna species; however, despite nearly century protection, six snake and five amphibian species have disappeared, remaining species-at-risk populations are thought to be in decline. We hypothesized that long-term changes availability distribution critical habitat types may contributed disappearance herpetofauna. To track we used aerial image data spanning 85 years (1931-2015) manually digitized classified using standardized framework. Change-detection analyses were evaluate relative importance proportionate loss fragmentation 17 types. Marsh diversity aquatic connectivity has declined since 1931. The marsh matrix transitioned from graminoid forb shallow interspersed with water cattail dominated marsh, altering breeding, foraging, overwintering habitat. Reduced habitats appears linked expansion invasive Phragmites australis, which invaded prior 2000. Loss open such as savanna meadow reduced high quality thermoregulation for reptiles. Restoration northwestern region Park mixed landscape wetlands (cattail, graminoid, forb, water) eradication dense stands should improve diversity. Our results suggest resulting succession can negatively affect suitability protection land alone does not necessarily equate sensitive