How to analyse terrestrial ecological network connectivity? A Mediterranean example

Abstract

The terrestrial and aquatic ecological network in France is based on the conservation and restoration of ecological connectivity of habitats with regard to species' ecological requirements. Recent development in landscape ecology based on graph theory and species movement modelling offer promising applications in terms of landscape management and biodiversity conservation. We first present the method of potential connectivity based on graph theory and explain why it goes beyond previous approaches. Then, we illustrate with an example of a connectivity analysis in the PACA region on the Red Squirrel, a forest generalist species. The models identify the areas that are isolated from the rest of the habitat network and how connectivity varies according to species' dispersal distance. They highlight the most important patches and corridors that must be preserved as a priority in order to maintain the connectivity of the habitat network. These examples clearly show how these methods can be valuable decision support tools for the implementation of terrestrial ecological networks.