Incorporating spatial population structure in gap analysis reveals inequitable assessments of species protection

摘要: Aim: Gap analysis measures the percentage of protected species distribution and generally compares it to a representation target (i.e. minimum area be protected). The results are used identify that need further protection, providing quantitative baseline address possible expansion given (PA) systems. However, achievement same may have different implications in terms persistence depending on population spatial structure conservation needs. aim was investigate what extent why gap provide inequitable assessments protection. Location: Europe. Methods: We performed three analyses 27 European carnivores ungulates, measuring level protection according types data: geographical ranges, habitat suitability models incorporate potential structuring populations within PAs. Results: estimated degree depends proxy adopted. When based areas able support viable (irrespective how these quantified), perceived relative changes considerably. ability persist PA systems mostly their density dispersal abilities, as well interaction between two features, which eventually determines number size populations. Main conclusions: for imply protecting numbers individuals having structures consequently lead probabilities across species. If is disregarded, thus coverage.