Authors:
Morrison, E.B., C.A. Lindell, K.D. Holl and R.A. Zahawi
Publication Date:
2010
Abstract/Summary:
As demonstrated in this study, patches of tens to a few hundreds of metres squared are likely to provide fewer food resources and potentially less cover from predators for vertebrates that use woody habitat, compared with patches of a few thousand square metres. The more limited resources in smaller patches are likely to have short-term and, potentially, long-term consequences for the fitness of organisms. When considering restoration project design, the potential economic and other benefits of planting in smaller patches must be weighed with the potentially negative ecological effects on some taxonomic groups. To increase the probability that patches provide adequate habitat for the largest number of species, we recommend that when financial resources are available, patches of at least a few thousand square metres be planted.
Resource Type:
Peer-reviewed Article
Source:
Journal of Applied Ecology
Link:
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2664.2009.01743.x/abstract