Indicators Of Conservation Status Research Articles

20 years of landscape dynamics within the world's largest multinational network of protected areas

The world's largest network of protected areas (PAs), Natura 2000, is facing different types of disturbances and pressures, however, it still remains unclear the impact they have on the conservation status of sites. Remote sensing big data analysis and satellite data were used to quantify dynamics of the dominant land cover category, landscape structure, and vegetation greenness, as indicators of conservation status, as well as drivers of change, between 2000 and 2018, within each Natura 2000 protected area, across the entire European Union. Our results show that the majority of sites are ‘favourable’ on natural land cover range and areas, but heading to ‘unfavourable’ status regarding the landscape structure, while an alarmingly high number of sites experience both net loss of the dominant land cover type and degradation of landscape structure, labeled consequently as having an ‘unfavourable’ conservation status. The results also showed high differences between biogeographic regions and countries, with an extremely low number of sites suffering dramatic changes to other dominant land cover types, mainly among grasslands. Mediterranean region showed a high net forest increase (mainly extension of existing forests) as well as insignificant changes of landscape fragmentation and diversity (predominantly in Greece, Spain and, Italy), related to the intensification of forest planting, and to a high loss of grassland area and cropland (land abandonment). High net forest gain, but increasing landscape fragmentation, was observed in the Continental region (mainly in Bulgaria, Poland, Germany and, Italy), suggesting that forest developed in numerous new smaller patches, due to the development of invasive species through natural processes (agricultural land abandonment) and natural system modifications. The Alpine region also showed a low positive net forest change, but with significant dynamics of gains due to reducing of agricultural activities and human disturbances, and losses due to natural catastrophes such as natural fires, storms, avalanches or landslides. Contrarily, the Boreal and Atlantic regions recorded considerable net forest loss during the analyzed period, caused mainly by the occurrence of natural catastrophes, natural biotic and abiotic processes (erosion, parasitism, diseases), and the increase of forestry clearance. These results show the high potential of moderate resolution remote sensing big data in assessing PAs, even more as higher spatial and temporal resolution satellite data are continuously emerging.

Coupling biophysical processes that sustain a deep subpopulation of Loxechinus albus and its associated epibenthic community over a bathymetric feature

In order to contribute with more integrative strategies for better identify areas of high conservation priority we study the coupling of physical and biological processes that sustain a deep subpopulation of the most caught sea urchin (Loxechinus albus) worldwide and its associated epibenthic community over a bathymetric depression in southern Chile, which is surrounded by intensive anthropic activities. We used a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to characterize the epibenthic community (organisms > 15 mm long) and substrate, up to a depth of 112 m in a submarine hole. Additionally, a combination of a towed and a moored Acoustic Doppler current Profiler (ADCP) was used to characterize current patterns. We found evidence that physical mechanisms transport and retain macro and micro material in the bottom of the hollow, and they contribute to homogenizing the habitat along the entire bathymetric gradient. These coupled processes allow i) that several species expand their bathymetric distribution range, ii) the existence of nursery areas for fishes, iii) that characteristic grazers in shallow habitats colonize greater depths, where filter feeders or DOM consumers generally represent the typical epifauna. We hypothesize that coupling of physical and biological processes on this bathymetric depression are key for bring on Loxechinus albus along the entire bathymetric gradient, who in turn is key to the community structure of the hollow. Given that this particular habitat is surrounded by intensive anthropic activities (eg. salmon aquaculture, mussel aquaculture, fishing, port) and a city, we suggest: Firstly, that monitoring should be undertaken in order to observe biodiversity changes in the bathymetric gradient, since it could be an indicator of conservation status. Secondly, that a proposal should be formulated to consider this zone as a Marine Protected Area.

Lianas, tree ferns and understory species: indicators of conservation status in the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest remnants, southeastern Brazil.

Indicators are applied faster and at lower costs than conventional surveys, providing quick and efficient responses that can facilitate protected areas management. Our aim was to select indicators from vegetation to monitor protected areas. For this purpose, we analyzed understory and quantified lianas and tree ferns in protected and non-protected areas, in order to find indicator species. Our study areas are located in Vale do Ribeira, southeastern São Paulo state, Brazil. One of the areas is under two protection categories (IUCN's categories II and V), and the other is a privately owned farm. Lianas with large diameters (> 13 cm) and tree ferns with great heights (> 19 m) were considered indicators of undisturbed areas (protected areas) because their growth is directly related to forest successional stage. Indicator species within the protected area were shade tolerant species, such as Bathysa australis (A.St.-Hil.) K.Schum., whereas outside the protected area were pioneer species, such as Pera glabrata (Schott) Poepp. ex Baill. e Nectandra oppositifolia Ness. All of the suggested indicators can be used in management actions, especially in protected areas, to guarantee forest maintenance and ensure fulfillment of the conservation objectives of these areas.

Multi-level biological responses in Ucides cordatus (Linnaeus, 1763) (Brachyura, Ucididae) as indicators of conservation status in mangrove areas from the western atlantic

There is a global lack of knowledge on tropical ecotoxicology, particularly in terms of mangrove areas. These areas often serve as nurseries or homes for several animal species, including Ucides cordatus (the uçá crab). This species is widely distributed, is part of the diet of human coastal communities, and is considered to be a sentinel species due to its sensitivity to toxic xenobiotics in natural environments. Sublethal damages to benthic populations reveal pre-pathological conditions, but discussions of the implications are scarce in the literature. In Brazil, the state of São Paulo offers an interesting scenario for ecotoxicology and population studies: it is easy to distinguish between mangroves that are well preserved and those which are significantly impacted by human activity. The objectives of this study were to provide the normal baseline values for the frequency of Micronucleated cells (MN‰) and for neutral red retention time (NRRT) in U. cordatus at pristine locations, as well to indicate the conservation status of different mangrove areas using a multi-level biological response approach in which these biomarkers and population indicators (condition factor and crab density) are applied in relation to environmental quality indicators (determined via information in the literature and solid waste volume). A mangrove area with no effects of impact (areas of reference or pristine areas) presented a mean value of MN‰<3 and NRRT>120min, values which were assumed as baseline values representing genetic and physiological normality. A significant correlation was found between NRRT and MN, with both showing similar and effective results for distinguishing between different mangrove areas according to conservation status. Furthermore, crab density was lower in more impacted mangrove areas, a finding which also reflects the effects of sublethal damage; this finding was not determined by condition factor measurements. Multi-level biological responses were able to reflect the conservation status of the mangrove areas studied using information on guideline values of MN‰, NRRT, and density of the uçá crab in order to categorize three levels of human impacts in mangrove areas: PNI (probable null impact); PLI (probable low impact); and PHI (probable high impact). Results confirm the success of U. cordatus species’ multi-level biological responses in diagnosing threats to mangrove areas. Therefore, this species represents an effective tool in studies on mangrove conservation statuses in the Western Atlantic.

Suport System for the Management of the Sabanejewia aurata (De Filippi, 1863) Populations of the ROSCI0227 – Sighișoara-Târnava Mare

Abstract ADONIS:CE was used to design a computer model for the management of Sabanejewia aurata (De Filippi, 1863) populations in the Natura 2000 site of Sighişoara-Târnava Mare (ROSCI0227). The recommended management model is based on the environmental needs of the species, inventoried according to the local habitats, as well as the indicators of conservation status and relevant management measures, and takes into account human pressures and threats identified in the research area. Such computer models were established for all protected fish species found at the site ROSCI0227.

Assessing the conservation status of Mediterranean temporary ponds using biodiversity: a new tool for practitioners

The assessment of the habitat condition is the first step of conservation actions and several tools are available to assess wetlands. However, only a few tools are adapted to the priority habitat Mediterranean temporary ponds. Thus, our objectives were (i) to identify biological indicators associated with the different conservation status of Mediterranean temporary ponds and (ii) to create an efficient evaluation tool for non-experts using indicators of conservation status. A total of 87 ponds were sampled in southwest Portugal to assess the presence of plants, large branchiopods, amphibians, threatened voles and bats. Ponds with favourable conservation status showed higher species richness of plants, large branchiopods and amphibians. We identified eighteen indicators for favourable ponds: 15 plants, one large branchiopod and two amphibian taxa. We propose a new tool to assess the conservation status of Mediterranean temporary ponds based on the presence of these indicators. This tool is an alternative to other common, but time-consuming, methods and can be readily used by trained practitioners. The replication and adaptation of this tool to other regions and habitats enables the collection of comparable data and the geographical scaling-up of the assessments.

Zostera marina meadows from the Gulf of California: conservation status

Eelgrass (Zostera marina) population estimates show a decreasing trend worldwide in the second half of the twentieth century. Mexico lacks long-term time series to determine trends for major eelgrass populations and has made no conservation efforts. Therefore, we present the first report on the historic presence of this annual coastal ecosystem in two wetlands of the Gulf of California (GC), the Infiernillo Channel (CIF, largest Z. marina population inside GC) and Concepcion Bay (BCP, the only eelgrass population along GC’s west coast), combining field surveys (1999–2010), aerial photography (2000–2010), satellite imagery (1972–2005), and published reports (1994–2007). Three parameters were used as indicators of conservation status: shoot density, seed banks, and aerial coverage. Average shoot density in the CIF (741 shoots m−2) was 3.8 times higher than in BCP (194 shoots m−2), and average seed bank density was similar in both wetlands (17,442 seeds m−2 vs. 17,000 seeds m−2). Opportunistic seagrass Ruppia maritima was observed in both wetlands, with higher abundance in summer when Z. marina disappears due to high water temperatures. Eelgrass coverage was three orders of magnitude greater in the CIF (9725 ha) than in BCP (3 ha). The striking difference between these wetlands is the lack of environmental protection for BCP and the protection of the CIF by the Seri indigenous community, which increases human pressure in the former, putting it at high risk of disappearing. Conservation of eelgrass meadows is not only necessary to preserve their ecosystem services but to insure the survival of migratory populations (Pacific brant goose, Branta bernicla), endangered species (Black turtle, Chelonia mydas), and fisheries-related species.

An assessment of river habitat quality as an indicator of conservation status. A case study in the Northwest of Spain

There are several methodologies for the characterization and evaluation of river habitats. The scientific community has made a great effort in designing the best indexes for this purpose, and they have also been tested in different countries and rivers. Nevertheless, there has not been a transfer of that knowledge to land managers of these spaces or, at least, to those who design improvement and restoration measures. The aim of our research was the assessment of the Riparian Forest Quality Index (QBR), the “Riparian Quality Index” (RQI) and the “Fluvial Habitat Index” (IHF) as indicators of the ecological status of fluvial habitats and their application in restoration projects. The main results of this study were that the IHF index could be used as a support resource and as a monitoring tool to assess the habitat heterogeneity before and after any action is taken. However, when we evaluated the QBR and RQI indexes, the best results were with the first one. The total QBR suggests the urgency level of restoration in the section that is evaluated, and each of its sub-indexes identifies which element of the river is affected. Therefore, it will be a useful tool in decision making for the conservation of these characteristic spaces, especially for engineers who, as a result of their experience in biological and ecological processes, are involved in the design and building of ecosystems, particularly in rivers and on their banks.

The use of herpetofauna and cultural values to identify priority conservation forests on Malaita, Solomon Islands.

Due to limited financial and technical resources, there is a pressing need to identify priority areas and strategies for conservation globally. This study aims to prioritize important forest areas for conservation on the island of Malaita, Solomon Islands. Five different forest types were sampled to quantify biodiversity using the species richness of frogs and lizards (herpetofauna) as a biological indicator of conservation status. Unlogged coastal, unlogged lowland and unlogged upland forests have minimal disturbance whereas logged lowland forests and plantation teak forests are heavily disturbed. Subsequently, the effects of human modification on forest systems are also quantified based on anthropogenic disturbance. Interviews with local community members were conducted to gather associated local traditional knowledge on the cultural importance of frogs, lizards and forest habitats. Prioritization methods based on species richness, species uniqueness, cultural importance and threatened status are used to identify key forest areas. The four main results found are: 1) unlogged lowland forests have the greatest biodiversity value, 2) unlogged lowland forests also have the highest cultural value based on local uses, 3) logged lowland forests are biologically important, and 4) unlogged coastal forests and unlogged lowland forests are under the greatest threat from anthropogenic activities. Based on these results, the conservation of unlogged lowland forests on Malaita should be prioritized. These results also highlight the importance of combining biological sampling with cultural information to improve the efficiency and long-term success of conservation actions.

Cost‐effective assessment of conservation status of fens

AbstractQuestionsHow can conservation status of rich fen and alkaline spring areas be assessed most cost‐effectively based on existing monitoring data? What is the precision and accuracy of available indicators?LocationRich fen and alkaline spring areas in Denmark.MethodsPotential indicators of conservation status were evaluated based on: accuracy, measured as the ability to predict the number of typical species in monitoring plots; precision, measured as variation over years of indicators in repeated plots; and cost of obtaining data for the indicator. Indicators were derived using data from the Danish National Monitoring and Assessment Programme for the Aquatic and Terrestrial Environment from 2000 to 2009. Indicators included biotic indices derived from species lists, abiotic measurements of pH and nutrients and structural measurements of vegetation height and tree cover.ResultsThe majority of indicators showed a significant correlation with the number of typical species. Floristic indicators, especially based on Ellenberg nutrient values, showed superior correlation and were furthermore very stable over years. Structural indicators were generally accurate, but were highly imprecise with high between‐year variation. Among the abiotic indicators, pH and soil P were inaccurate, whereas tissue N content and nitrate in water were accurate but with low precision. When balancing efficiency of indicators with monitoring costs, laboratory analyses stand out as expensive compared to recording of a species list, the latter providing up to five valuable indicators.ConclusionsFloristic indicators derived from Ellenberg values, and especially those related to nutrient availability, are cost‐effective indicators of conservation status. The method is applicable to all regions where Ellenberg indicator values have been calibrated to fit local conditions.

Assessing the condition of lake habitats: a test of methods for surveying aquatic macrophyte communities

The European Union requires member states to monitor the conservation status of water bodies designated under the Habitats and Species Directive. In the UK, macrophytes were identified as useful indicators of conservation status but it was recognised that sampling methods required assessment before nationwide survey work began. At eight lakes, which varied in size (0.9–2797 ha) and trophic status (oligotrophic–eutrophic), we tested a method which uses a combination of three techniques (boat transects, wader transects and perimeter strandline searches) to characterise repeat sectors (six or fewer). The combination of techniques used at a particular lake depended on the accessibility of each sector, the safety of applying the method, expediency and target flora. Species richness and abundance were recorded. By applying indicator metrics/rules to data produced by the method it was possible to categorise the conservation and trophic status of the lakes. Power analysis revealed that the data were statistically robust and could potentially be used to track significant, lake-specific changes in macrophyte flora through time. This analysis also revealed a decreasing return in statistical certainty with increased sampling effort (number of sectors sampled). Little additional certainty was added when more than 4 sectors were sampled per lake. The wader transects proved the most practical means of collecting quantitative data while perimeter surveys were an efficient means of adding useful supplementary semi-quantitative data. Boat surveys, although useful in some situations, particularly in assessing deeper water vegetation, were more time consuming than wader surveys. The potential applications and limitations of these methods are discussed and further tests suggested.

Actual status of the sea urchin Diadema aff. antillarum populations and macroalgal cover in marine protected areas compared to a highly fished area (Canary Islands—eastern Atlantic Ocean)

Abstract The aim was to determine the status of subtidal rocky benthic assemblages in three marine protected areas (MPAs) of the Canary Islands: (1) La Graciosa; (2) Mar de Las Calmas; (3) La Palma. Sea urchin (Diadema aff. antillarum) populations and non‐crustose macroalgal cover were surveyed, and used as an indicator of conservation status in the three MPAs as well as in a highly fished area (HFA‐Tenerife Island). Comparing characteristics between each MPA and the HFA, and considering issues of management and design, it was concluded that the three MPAs each have a different conservation status. ‘Mar de Las Calmas’ marine reserve was found to have the most desirable conservation status, followed by ‘La Palma’ marine reserve based on sea urchin populations and non‐crustose macroalgae assemblages. Conversely, ‘La Graciosa’ had the highest density of D. aff. antillarum and the lowest cover of non‐crustose macroalgae out of the three MPAs. Values were comparable to those at the HFA, which shows ‘La Graciosa’ to have the undesired conservation status. Different spatial distribution patterns of non‐crustose macroalgal as well as different algal composition cover were observed between the three MPAs and the HFA. These differences were principally attributed to the intensity of grazing activity of the key herbivore D. aff. antillarum. It is suggested that the different study areas correspond to different phase shifts that imply differing resilience of systems that should be taken into a count in future conservation strategies. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley &amp; Sons, Ltd.

Taxonomic and phylogenetic distinctiveness in regional conservation assessments: a case study based on extant South African Chiroptera and Carnivora

The current study investigates whether a simple measure of taxonomic diversity (Taxonomic Distinctiveness (TD)) can be used as a proxy for different measures of phylogenetic diversity (Phylogenetic Distinctiveness (PD)) in determining species of regional conservation priority, and uses extant South African Chiroptera and Carnivora as a case study. Published phylogenies for the two mammalian Orders allowed the quantification of a node-based measure that was considered to represent phylogenetic diversity (PD NODE ), as well as a branch length-based measure that was considered to represent the amount of evolutionary change over time (PD BRANCH ). Both the PD NODE and PD BRANCH , together with TD were included in our regional conservation priority assessment. Although no statistically significant differences were detected between the PD NODE , PD BRANCH and the TD for both the Chiroptera and Carnivora, these measures were also shown to be correlated with each other. More importantly, inclusion of either the PD NODE , PD BRANCH , or TD in our analysis did not significantly alter the species that were identified as being of regional conservation priority. Both regional priority scores for the South African Chiroptera and Carnivora and their respective rankings were broadly consistent across the three potential indicators of conservation status utilised. These results suggest that the inclusion of either the PD NODE and/or PD BRANCH in conservation prioritisation exercises may not add value to that currently provided by the TD. Consequently, this implies that in the absence of relevant PD data, the utilisation of the TD in regional conservation priority settings may provide the appropriate information on evolutionary diversity.