Gap analysis of European wetland species: priority regions for expanding the Natura 2000 network

摘要: Protected areas in the European Union under Natura 2000 reserve system cover about 17 percent of total land area. Systematic evaluations effectiveness current have been scarce and restricted to regional assessments. One reason for that may be poor availability comprehensive fine scale biodiversity data highly fragmented densely human-populated continent. We apply recently developed modeling tools systematic conservation planning conduct a detailed gap analysis using coarse species occurrence data. The employed mathematical model uses mixed integer programming determine cost-minimizing distribution habitat locations subject biophysical, economic, policy restrictions. include wetland as well species-specific proxies population density viable threshold. First, we evaluate performance covering endangered vertebrate species. Results show five area-demanding vertebrates are not covered by system. Second, identify potentials expanding network move toward complete coverage considered mostly countries North-Eastern Europe. About 3 million hectares additional area at cost 107 Euro per year would required achieve all Third, present spatially explicit priority regions cost-effective expansion network.