Isolated trees and small woody patches greatly contribute to connectivity in highly fragmented tropical landscapes

摘要: Abstract Decreasing landscape connectivity, due to habitat loss and agricultural expansion, is a threat for species movement other flux-dependent ecological processes. Tree cover within the matrix provides perching sites, dispersal routes, extra animals. Isolated trees living fences in tropical pastures add structural complexity actual matrices, but their role connectivity undervalued. Our main objective was assess potential value of small (≤1ha) woody patches maintaining highly fragmented landscapes using birds as focal species. We used high-resolution images LIDAR data classify different tree types. probability hypothetical distances between patches, graph-theoretic approach simulating scenarios that differed composition. estimated impacts contribution class removals on connectivity. The index increased widely among with increasing highest obtained scenario included all arboreal elements currently present matrix. Small wooded isolated contributed from 26% 59% overall presence greatly enhance animals low vagility behavioral limitations crossing gaps. play crucial reachability rural ensuring enhancing perform daily-movements at short-distances. spatial distribution could be optimized increase must considered conservation planning.