Simple rules for ranking and optimally managing metapopulations

J.V. Ross and P.K. Pollett

Ecological Modelling, 2010, vol. 221, issue 21, 2515-2520

Abstract: We present two ‘rules of thumb’ for metapopulation management. The first identifies an explicit formula for the persistence time of the population, and thus enables the population manager to form a priority species ranking by identifying those species most at risk of extinction. The second identifies an optimal management strategy that gives direction on how to alter the colonisation rate (creation or improvement of habitat corridors) and local extinction rate (restoring habitat quality or expanding habitat) in order to maximise the persistence time under a budgetary constraint. We employ a simple stochastic version of Levins (1969) metapopulation model, which is first calibrated to a more realistic spatial model. Our rules are tested on computer-generated patch networks and a model for malleefowl (Leipoa ocellata) in the Bakara region of South Australia.

Keywords: Costs; Metapopulations; Management; Rules of thumb; Spatially realistic; Stochasticity (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2010
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:ecomod:v:221:y:2010:i:21:p:2515-2520

DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2010.02.016

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