A multistep approach to improving connectivity and co-use of spatial ecological networks in cities

Simon Beaujean,Juan Gallego Zamorano,Alex Cristina Dumitriu,Tim Brewer,Ron Corstanje,Jim Harris,Amal Najihah Muhamad Nor

doi:10.1007/s10980-020-01159-6

Abstract

ContextEcological networks are systems of interconnected components that support biodiversity, ecological processes and ecosystem services. Such structures play a crucial role for nature conservation and people well-being in anthropogenic landscapes. Assessing connectivity by using efficient models and metrics is a sine qua non condition to preserve and improve appropriately these ecological networks.ObjectivesThis study aims to present a novel methodological approach to assess and model connectivity for species conservation (Bufo calamita; the natterjack toad) and human recreation in the city.MethodsThe study used a combination least cost and circuit models to identify priority corridors in the City of Liège, Belgium. Green areas, habitats and relevant movement parameters were derived based on existing studies around (i) the occurrence, ecology and biology of the natterjack toad and (ii) human behavioural studies on urban pedestrians. Combining the two models allowed the assessment of connectivity for both species via two different metrics visualised using priority corridors on maps.ResultsThe connectivity assessments identified lack of connectivity as the potential route to extinction of natterjack toads at one of the source sites.ConclusionsThis study provides examples of how combining least cost and circuit models can contribute to the improvement of urban ecological networks and demonstrates the usefulness of such models for nature conservation and urban planning.

Highlights

The term spatial ecological networks appeared initially in Europe as part of nature conservation policy and is broadly defined as a network composed of ecological components, e.g. core areas, ecological corridors, and buffer zones (Jongman et al 2004; McHugh and Thompson 2011)
All were within the maximum acceptable distance for walking (3500 m) and only two of them exceeded the average walking distance for recreation (860 m). This means that people are able to walk between source sites if no significant detour is caused by the landscape structure
This study presents a methodological approach to assess and model connectivity for both species in the city in order to provide an initial guideline for urban planning and biodiversity conservation

Summary

Introduction

The term spatial ecological networks appeared initially in Europe as part of nature conservation policy and is broadly defined as a network composed of ecological components, e.g. core areas, ecological corridors, and buffer zones (Jongman et al 2004; McHugh and Thompson 2011). By connecting previously isolated habitats, increasing the vegetation cover, and contributing to ecosystem resilience, green infrastructures improves the quality and quantity of ecosystem services and functions, that contributes to ecosystem and public health (Tzoulas et al 2007) Various studies support this argument and have reported the services and functions provided by the natural components that are directly or indirectly beneficial to ecosystems, wildlife species and humans; functions such as air filtering, micro-climate regulation, noise reduction, rainwater drainage and sewage treatment (Bolund and Hunhammar 1999); heat island effect reduction, psychological well-being, longevity and levels of physical activity (Tzoulas et al 2007); cultural, historical, aesthetic and recreational functions (Chiesura 2004); and biodiversity conservation and enhancement (Liu et al 2014)

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