ASSESSMENT OF GIS-ASSISTED MOVEMENT PATCHES USING LCP FOR LOCAL SPECIES: NORTH CENTRAL ANATOLIA REGION, TURKEY

Alı Uğur Özcan,Pakize Ece Erzin

doi:10.1590/0104776020202026012690

Abstract

ABSTRACT As a result of the fragmentation and degradation of forests, the connectivity of natural habitats has been decreasing. Thus, problems in gene flow in wildlife have begun to arise. The connection of landscape patches with corridors is now an important subject of landscape planning. Central Anatolia has been affected by forest fragmentation due to its fragile ecologies. The purpose of this study was i) to identify the spatial location of landscape corridors in order to create ecological networks among the natural landscape reserves in the Northern Central Anatolia Region and ii) to develop a guideline that can be applied for landscape connectivity in fragmentation areas. Landscape resistances were determined according to the target species (Lynx lynx) and a resistance map was formed. Corridors were determined by using Least-cost path (LCP) approach with GIS. As a result, six corridors and major barriers were identified among the core areas and north forests. The methodology and results of this study has promising potential, which can be considered by experts, planners, and researchers in Turkey and others regions of the world as references for identifying and planning optimal patches for habitat sustainability.

Highlights

Anthropogenic formations, such as agricultural areas, human settlements, and roads, are the main causes for the fragmentation of forests, as well as for the reduction of biodiversity
The lynx is the biggest cat living in Central Anatolia and it is threatened with extinction in Turkey
Landscape corridors are an important connectivity for the wildlife community that provides flexibility to move against habitat fragmentation

Summary

Introduction

Anthropogenic formations, such as agricultural areas, human settlements, and roads, are the main causes for the fragmentation of forests, as well as for the reduction of biodiversity. Many wild animals can migrate long distances and move through the landscape for breeding, nesting or seeking shelter. Due to the combined effects of natural and anthropogenic disturbances, the habitat for different species may be lost, fragmented or degraded, leading to the formation of a mosaic or patches habitats with changing characteristics. These habitat patches or matrices can facilitate or prevent the movement of species between individual or populations. Because landscapes are spatially heterogeneous and temporally dynamic, it is important to understand how landscape features affect the dispersal, migration, and daily movements of wild animals (Taylor et al, 1993; With et al, 1997; Crooks and Sanjayan, 2006)

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