Habitat Ecology and Analysis

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joseph A. Veech
Keyword(s):  
Function Analysis ◽  
Habitat Preferences ◽  
Habitat Destruction ◽  
Habitat Requirements ◽  
Multivariate Techniques ◽  
Occupancy Modelling ◽  
Wildlife Ecology ◽  
Biodiversity Crisis ◽  
Habitat Analysis ◽  
Survival And Reproduction

Habitat is crucial to the survival and reproduction of individual organisms as well as persistence of populations. As such, species-habitat relationships have long been studied, particularly in the field of wildlife ecology and to a lesser extent in the more encompassing discipline of ecology. The habitat requirements of a species largely determine its spatial distribution and abundance in nature. One way to recognize and appreciate the over-riding importance of habitat is to consider that a young organism must find and settle into the appropriate type of habitat as one of the first challenges of life. This process can be cast in a probabilistic framework and used to better understand the mechanisms behind habitat preferences and selection. There are at least six distinctly different statistical approaches to conducting a habitat analysis – that is, identifying and quantifying the environmental variables that a species most strongly associates with. These are (1) comparison among group means (e.g., ANOVA), (2) multiple linear regression, (3) multiple logistic regression, (4) classification and regression trees, (5) multivariate techniques (Principal Components Analysis and Discriminant Function Analysis), and (6) occupancy modelling. Each of these is lucidly explained and demonstrated by application to a hypothetical dataset. The strengths and weaknesses of each method are discussed. Given the ongoing biodiversity crisis largely caused by habitat destruction, there is a crucial and general need to better characterize and understand the habitat requirements of many different species, particularly those that are threatened and endangered.

Conclusion

2021 ◽  
pp. 209-212
Author(s):  
Joseph A. Veech
Keyword(s):  
Environmental Variables ◽  
Common Ground ◽  
Structure Characterization ◽  
Modern Concept ◽  
Ecological Communities ◽  
Individual Organism ◽  
Wildlife Ecology ◽  
Habitat Analysis ◽  
Survival And Reproduction ◽  
The Individual

Because habitat is so crucial to the survival and reproduction of individual organisms and persistence of populations, it has long been studied by wildlife ecologists. However, the modern concept of habitat originated with ecologists before the field and practice of wildlife ecology arose. The fields of ecology and wildlife ecology have developed along separate historical paths, but, given that research in each field continues to involve the study of species–habitat relationships, there is common ground for practitioners and students in both fields to better engage with one another. Such collaboration could involve a shared recognition that habitat largely determines a species spatial distribution in nature. Through a behavioral process of dispersal, settlement, and establishment, an individual organism finds appropriate habitat by searching and responding to environmental cues. These cues may primarily be characteristics of the habitat such as vegetation structure. Characterization or statistical analysis of habitat is an obvious and important component of studying the habitat requirements of a species. It is recommended that multiple logistic regression will often be the most appropriate method for characterizing habitat. Of most importance, a habitat analysis should recognize that the habitat of a species involves an integrated set of environmental variables that synergistically influence the survival and reproduction of the individual and existence of the species. The study of habitat can help us learn more about the autecology of the focal species, its role in ecological communities, and proper strategies for its preservation.

Diet and habitat preferences of the Fijian crested iguana (Brachylophus vitiensis) on Yadua Taba, Fiji: implications for conservation

2007 ◽  
Vol 55 (6) ◽  
pp. 341 ◽  
Author(s):  
Clare Morrison ◽  
Tamara Osborne ◽  
Peter S. Harlow ◽  
Nunia Thomas ◽  
Pita Biciloa ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Sex Differences ◽  
Plant Species ◽  
Tree Species ◽  
Habitat Preferences ◽  
Large Population ◽  
Tropical Dry Forest ◽  
Habitat Destruction ◽  
Dry Forest ◽  
Habitat Requirements ◽  
Field Surveys

The Fijian crested iguana (Brachylophus vitiensis) is restricted to tropical dry forest habitat and has been extirpated from over 80% of its original range primarily because of habitat destruction. A large population on Yadua Taba island has been proposed as a source for iguana translocations. This study aimed to determine the dietary and habitat requirements of the herbivorous B. vitiensis on Yadua Taba to identify essential tree species. Between September 2005 and June 2006 we examined the diet of B. vitiensis using faecal analyses, while perch preferences were examined using field surveys. Faecal analyses identified 26 plant species in the diet of B. vitiensis, while field surveys recorded iguanas in 33 tree species. The most common diet species largely overlapped with the most common perch species. There were no major seasonal shifts, sex differences, or age-class variations in diet or perch preferences. These results suggest that while B. vitiensis occurs in and consumes several plant species on Yadua Taba, it is primarily dependent on only a few species. To improve translocation success, future translocations of B. vitiensis need to ensure that these important tree species are present at new sites.

Habitat requirements and distribution of Engaeus cisternarius and three subspecies of Parastacoides tasmanicus (Decapoda : Parastacidae), burrowing crayfish from an area of south-western Tasmania

1980 ◽  
Vol 31 (4) ◽  
pp. 475 ◽  
Author(s):  
AMM Richardson ◽  
R Swain
Keyword(s):  
Small Area ◽  
Habitat Preferences ◽  
Sandy Soils ◽  
Taxonomic Status ◽  
River Valley ◽  
Habitat Requirements ◽  
Intensive Study ◽  
Extensive Survey ◽  
South West ◽  
Waterlogged Soils

During an extensive survey of the crayfish fauna of the lower catchments of the Gordon River, south-western Tasmania. two species of crayfish were collected: Engaeus cisternarius and three subspecies of Parastacoides tasmanicus (P. t. tasmanicus, P. t. inermis and P. t. insignis). From this survey and an intensive study in a small area of the Olga River valley, distinct habitat preferences of each of the forms were recognized. E. cisteinavius was restricted to the areas north and west of the Gordon River where it was found only in clay and sandy soils under rainforest. P. t. tasmanicus was found in waterlogged soils, peats and sands on valley floors covered either with wet sedgeland or rainforest. P. t. inermis was found in two disjunct habitats: well- drained slopes and hillsides covered in heath vegetation. and under rocks in small creeks in rainforests. P. t. insignis occupied an intermediate habitat between P. t. tasmanicus and the non-creek dwelling, P. t. inermis, but was restricted geographically to the extreme south-west of the study area. The taxonomic status of the P. tasmanicus subspecies is discussed.

Conservation of a rare arboreal mammal: habitat preferences of the Lumholtz's tree-kangaroo, Dendrolagus lumholtzi

2011 ◽  
Vol 33 (1) ◽  
pp. 5 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sigrid R. Heise-Pavlov ◽  
Sara L. Jackrel ◽  
Spenser Meeks
Keyword(s):  
Habitat Selection ◽  
Function Analysis ◽  
Habitat Preferences ◽  
Structural Features ◽  
Main Trunk ◽  
Faecal Pellets ◽  
Eastern Australia ◽  
North Eastern ◽  
Dendrolagus Lumholtzi ◽  
Selection Of

Success of conservation efforts of large and cryptic mammals is often limited due to a lack of knowledge of their habitat preferences. This study investigates factors that affect the habitat selection of the rare Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroo, Dendrolagus lumholtzi, using signs of its activity. The presence and absence of scratch marks on tree trunks and faecal pellets within a 100-cm radius around them were surveyed on 23 ha within a 65-ha large fragment of rainforest on the Atherton Tablelands, north-eastern Australia in order to classify trees as ‘actively used’ or ‘inactive’. Structural features of the 315 surveyed tree trunks were also recorded. Using discriminant function analysis, ‘actively used’ trees were found to have no epiphytes on the main trunk, less obstruction by neighbouring trees, shrubs or lianas within a 0.5-m radius of the trunk (particularly in the eastern direction), and a smaller diameter at breast height than ‘inactive’ trees. Smaller tree trunks and less obstruction may facilitate a more rapid movement into the canopy as well as provide potential escape routes from predators. More specific knowledge on factors that affect habitat selection of the Lumholtz’ tree-kangaroo will help in a reclassification of the threatened status of this species and assist in more effective conservation efforts.

Extinction, the Causes of Extinction and the Conservation of Biodiversity

2008 ◽  
Vol 3 (3) ◽  
pp. 166-173 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hisashi Nagata ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Global Warming ◽  
Theoretical Background ◽  
Natural Process ◽  
Habitat Destruction ◽  
Mass Extinctions ◽  
Species Extinction ◽  
Biodiversity Crisis ◽  
The Past ◽  
Extinction Rates ◽  
Conservation Of Biodiversity

Over 25% of species are currently categorized as threatened. Extinction is a natural process in organism evolution, and 99% of all organisms that have thus far existed are already extinct. Current extinction rates, however, is progressing at least 2,500 times faster than in the past. Ongoing extinction is so fast, in fact, that organisms may not be able to adapt environment and to evolve. Current biodiversity crisis is called “sixth extinction” because it is severer than five geological mass extinctions. Habitat destruction, overexploitation, and invasion of species through human activities are currently the major causes of species extinction. Global warming is also expected to pose a considerable threat to Earth’s organisms. I briefly review the nature of species extinction, its processes, causes, theoretical background, and ongoing threats.

scholarly journals Nesting Island Creation for Wading Birds

EDIS ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 2005 (8) ◽  
Author(s):  
C. Leann White ◽  
Peter C. Frederick ◽  
Martin B. Main ◽  
James A. Rodgers, Jr.
Keyword(s):  
Habitat Preferences ◽  
Publication Date ◽  
Wading Birds ◽  
Wildlife Ecology ◽  
Human Needs ◽  
Bird Populations ◽  
The Past ◽  
Wading Bird ◽  
Future Success ◽  
Wetland Habitats

Many long-legged wading birds such as little blue herons (Egretta caerulea), great blue herons (Ardea herodius), and great egrets (Ardea albus) nest together in large aggregations called breeding colonies. Although different species vary in their habitat preferences, wading birds have several common requirements for nesting. Colony sites must provide protection from predators, nesting materials, and nearby foraging areas (Hafner 2000). In the past, wading birds nested in natural wetland habitats that are becoming increasingly scarce as wetland habitats are continually altered or degraded to accommodate human needs. The future success of wading bird populations may be determined by how well they cope with manipulated foraging and nesting habitats. In this document, we make recommendations on the creation of nesting islands for long-legged wading birds.  This document is CIR1473, one of a series of the Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Department, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date May 2005. CIR1473/UW223: Nesting Island Creation for Wading Birds (ufl.edu)

scholarly journals The distribution and habitat requirements of the genus Orobanche L. (Orobanchaceae) in SE Poland

2011 ◽  
Vol 80 (1) ◽  
pp. 37-48 ◽  
Author(s):  
Renata Piwowarczyk ◽  
Piotr Chmielewski ◽  
Anna Cwener
Keyword(s):  
Habitat Preferences ◽  
Habitat Requirements ◽  
Se Poland

The distribution of the genus <em>Orobanche </em>in SE Poland is presented. The study area stretches between the Vistula and the Bug rivers, and comprises the Polish areas of the Lublin-Lwów Upland, the Wołyń Upland and the southern part of Polesie. Eight species of the genus <em>Orobanche</em>: <em>O. alba</em>, <em>O. alsatica</em>, <em>O. arenaria</em>, <em>O. caryophyllacea</em>, <em>O. elatior</em>, <em>O. lutea</em>, <em>O. pallidiflora</em>, <em>O. picridis</em>, were collected during floristic investigations conducted between 1999 and 2010. The hosts, abundance and habitat preferences at the localities are given and a supplemented map of the distribution in SE Poland is included.

scholarly journals Effects of one haustorium-inducing quinone DMBQ on growth and development of root hemiparasitic plant Monochasma savatieri

2020 ◽  
Vol 50 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Lanlan Chen ◽  
Zaibiao Zhu ◽  
Qiaosheng Guo ◽  
Jun Guo ◽  
Zhigang Huang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Growth Traits ◽  
Function Analysis ◽  
Dry Weight ◽  
Habitat Destruction ◽  
Root Tips ◽  
Wild Resources ◽  
Maximum Root Length ◽  
Maximum Root ◽  
Inducing Factors ◽  
Total Dry Weight

ABSTRACT: Monochasma savatieri Franch. ex Maxim is a perennial, parasitic herb used in traditional Chinese medicine and its wild resources have decreased sharply in recent years due to destructively harvesting and habitat destruction. Haustorium formation is a key event of parasites, but the concentrations of haustorium-inducing factors vary with species and cultivation conditions. In this study, we investigated the effects of the 2,6-dimethoxy-p-benzoquinone (DMBQ) concentration and cultivation density on the growth traits, haustorium formation and biomass of M. savatieri in the absence of a host plant. The results showed that both the DMBQ concentration and cultivation density regulated growth traits, haustorium formation and biomass in M. savatieri. The number of haustoria was significantly positively correlated with seedling height, maximum root length, the number of root tips and total dry weight. Membership function analysis revealed an overall greater increase in growth traits, haustorium formation and biomass when M. savatieri was treated with 10 μmol·L-1DMBQ and grew solitarily. These results offer an understanding of growth in M. savatieri influenced by the DMBQ concentration and cultivation density, which may aid in the establishment of a comprehensive cultivation system for M. savatieri or similar plants.

Goals of Characterizing a Species Habitat

2021 ◽  
pp. 73-80
Author(s):  
Joseph A. Veech
Keyword(s):  
Carrying Capacity ◽  
Species Interactions ◽  
Environmental Variables ◽  
Species Coexistence ◽  
Habitat Associations ◽  
Habitat Characteristics ◽  
Habitat Requirements ◽  
Distribution Models ◽  
Habitat Analysis ◽  
Great Utility

There are several reasons for conducting a habitat analysis and identifying the environmental (habitat) characteristics that a species associates with. (1) Knowledge of a species’ habitat requirements is crucial in restoring and managing habitat for the species. (2) Carrying capacity informs us about the potential (or lack thereof) for future population growth based on resource availability. Knowledge of a species’ habitat requirements allows us to interpret the importance of carrying capacity in a habitat-specific way. (3) The study of species interactions and the potential for species coexistence is supported by having knowledge of the habitat of each species under investigation. (4) Habitat preference and selection as eco-evolutionary processes continue to be widely studied by ecologists—interpretation of the results of such studies is best done with knowledge of the species–habitat associations. Such knowledge can also be useful in the design of preference and selection studies. (5) Knowledge of species–habitat associations can also be of great use in selecting the environmental variables to use in species distribution models. All five of these goals point to the great utility of conducting a habitat analysis as a supporting investigation or as a way to obtain knowledge to put to a practical purpose.

scholarly journals A Landscape-Scale Adjoining Conservation (LAC) Approach for Efficient Habitat Expansion: The Case of Changbai Mountain, Northeast China

2018 ◽  
Vol 10 (8) ◽  
pp. 2919
Author(s):  
Jianwei Bai ◽  
Lina Tang ◽  
Qingchun Wang ◽  
Fengri Li
Keyword(s):  
Protected Areas ◽  
Habitat Quality ◽  
Stand Structure ◽  
Mixed Forest ◽  
Landscape Scale ◽  
Habitat Destruction ◽  
Changbai Mountain ◽  
Landscape Patterns ◽  
Habitat Isolation ◽  
Biodiversity Crisis

The biodiversity crisis and ecosystem degradation caused by habitat destruction and human activities can be reduced by organizing protected areas. However, many protected areas currently take the form of “green islands,” which has led to serious habitat isolation in many places. We thus introduce herein a landscape-scale adjoining conservation (LAC) approach for the protection and restoration of ecosystems across the boundaries between protected areas and surrounding non-protected areas. The strategy of the LAC approach is to effectively expand conservation areas by connecting isolated areas of important ecosystems or habitats outside of protected areas. The methodology of the LAC approach involves integrated analyses that consider both habitat quality and landscape patterns. Forest-habitat quality is characterized by species composition and stand structure, and habitat connectivity is quantified by the max patch area of habitat and total habitat area. The focal statistic is useful for examining habitat clumps that result from landscape fragmentation. As a case study, we apply the LAC approach to adjoining restoration of broadleaf Korean pine mixed forest on the Changbai Mountain in northeastern China. We developed a metric called the Restoration Efficiency of Landscape Expansion (RELE) to evaluate the LAC approach. The results indicate that a minimal restoration effort can produce significant effects in terms of the expansion of contiguous habitat, as quantified by RELE.

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