Usefulness of the Umbrella Species Concept as a Conservation Tool

Abstract:  In the face of limited funding, knowledge, and time for action, conservation efforts often rely on shortcuts for the maintenance of biodiversity. The umbrella species concept—proposed as a way to use species requirements as a basis for conservation planning—has recently received growing attention. We reviewed the literature to evaluate the concept's general usefulness. An umbrella species is defined as a species whose conservation is expected to confer protection to a large number of naturally co-occurring species. This concept has been proposed as a tool for determining the minimum size for conservation areas, selecting sites to be included in reserve networks, and setting minimum standards for the composition, structure, and processes of ecosystems. Among the species suggested as potential umbrellas, most are large mammals and birds, but invertebrates are increasingly being considered. Eighteen research papers, most of which were based on hypothetical reserves or conservation networks, have provided evaluations of umbrella species schemes. These show that single-species umbrellas cannot ensure the conservation of all co-occurring species because some species are inevitably limited by ecological factors that are not relevant to the umbrella species. Moreover, they provide evidence that umbrella species from a given higher taxon may not necessarily confer protection to assemblages from other taxa. On the other hand, multi-species strategies based on systematic selection procedures (e.g., the focal species approach) offer more compelling evidence of the usefulness of the concept. Evaluations of umbrella species schemes could be improved by including measures of population viability and data from many years, as well as by comparing the efficiency of the proposed scheme with alternative management strategies.     

A Mechanistic Approach to Evaluation of Umbrella Species as Conservation Surrogates

Abstract:  Although species with large area requirements are sometimes used as umbrella species, their general utility as conservation tools is uncertain. We surveyed the species diversity of birds, butterflies, carabids, and forest-floor plants in forest sites across an area (1600 km²) in which we delineated large breeding home ranges of Northern Goshawk ( Accipiter gentilis ). We tested whether protection of the home ranges could serve as an effective umbrella to protect sympatric species of the four taxa. We also used an empirical habitat model of occupancy of home range to examine mechanisms by which the Northern Goshawk acts as an umbrella species. Among species richness, abundance, and species composition of the four taxa, only abundance and species composition of birds differed between sites located inside and outside home ranges, which was due to greater abundance of bird species that were prey of Northern Goshawks inside the home ranges. Thus, although home range indicated areas with high abundance of certain bird prey species, it was not effective as an indicator of the species diversity of all four taxa. We also did not find any difference in species richness, abundance, and species composition between sites predicted as occupied and unoccupied using the habitat model. In contrast, when we selected sites on the basis of each habitat variable in the model, habitat variables that selected sites either in agricultural or forested landscapes encompassed sites with high species richness or particular species composition. This result suggests that the low performance of the Northern Goshawk as an umbrella species is due to this species' preference for habitat in both agricultural and forested landscapes. Species that can adjust to changes in habitat conditions may not act as effective umbrella species despite having large home ranges.     

Regional Decline of an Iconic Amphibian Associated with Elevation,Land‐Use Change,and Invasive Species

Abstract: Ecological theory predicts that species with restricted geographic ranges will have the highest probability of extinction, but species with extensive distributions and high population densities can also exhibit widespread population losses. In the western United States populations of northern leopard frogs (Lithobates pipiens)—historically one of the most widespread frogs in North America—have declined dramatically in abundance and geographic distribution. To assess the status of leopard frogs in Colorado and evaluate causes of decline, we coupled statewide surveys of 196 historically occupied sites with intensive sampling of 274 wetlands stratified by land use. We used an information‐theoretic approach to evaluate the contributions of factors at multiple spatial extents in explaining the contemporary distribution of leopard frogs. Our results indicate leopard frogs have declined in Colorado, but this decline was regionally variable. The lowest proportion of occupied wetlands occurred in eastern Colorado (2–28%), coincident with urban development and colonization by non‐native bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus). Variables at several spatial extents explained observed leopard frog distributional patterns. In low‐elevation wetlands introduced fishes, bullfrogs, and urbanization or suburbanization associated negatively with leopard frog occurrence, whereas wetland area was positively associated with occurrence. Leopard frogs were more abundant and widespread west of the Continental Divide, where urban development and bullfrog abundance were low. Although the pathogenic chytrid Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) was not selected in our best‐supported models, the nearly complete extirpation of leopard frogs from montane wetlands could reflect the individual or interactive effects of Bd and climate patterns. Our results highlight the importance of considering multiple, competing hypotheses to explain species declines, particularly when implicated factors operate at different spatial extents.     

The Use of Species Accumulation Functions for the Prediction of Species Richness

We develop a stochastic theory of the accumulation of new species in faunistic or floristic inventories. Differential equations for the expected list size and its variance as a function of the time spent collecting are presented and solved for particular cases. These particular cases correspond to different models of how the probability of adding a new species changes with time, the size of the list, the complexity of the area sampled, and other parameters. Examples using field data from butterflies and mammals are discussed, and it is argued that the equations relating sampling effort with size of the list may be useful for conservation purposes because they should lend formality to comparisons among lists and because they may have predictive power by extrapolating the asymptotic size of the lists. The suitability of different models to a variety of field situations is also discussed.     

Use of Abundance of One Species as a Surrogate for Abundance of Others

Abstract: Indicator species concepts have a long history in conservation biology. Arguments in favor of these approaches generally stress expediency and assume efficacy. We tested the premise that the abundance patterns of one species can be used to infer those of other species. Our data consisted of 72,495 bird observations on 55 species across 1046 plots distributed across 30 sub basins. We analyzed abundance patterns at two spatial scales (plot and sub basin) and for empirical and a priori grouping. There were few significant indicator relationships at either scale or under either grouping rule, and those few we found did not explain a substantial portion of the abundance of other species. Coupled with the lack of proven efficacy for species surrogacy in the literature, our results indicate the utility of indicators and similar types of surrogate approaches must be demonstrated rather than assumed.     

Actual and Potential Use of Population Viability Analyses in Recovery of Plant Species Listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act

Use of population viability analyses (PVAs) in endangered species recovery planning has been met with both support and criticism. Previous reviews promote use of PVA for setting scientifically based, measurable, and objective recovery criteria and recommend improvements to increase the framework's utility. However, others have questioned the value of PVA models for setting recovery criteria and assert that PVAs are more appropriate for understanding relative trade‐offs between alternative management actions. We reviewed 258 final recovery plans for 642 plants listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act to determine the number of plans that used or recommended PVA in recovery planning. We also reviewed 223 publications that describe plant PVAs to assess how these models were designed and whether those designs reflected previous recommendations for improvement of PVAs. Twenty‐four percent of listed species had recovery plans that used or recommended PVA. In publications, the typical model was a matrix population model parameterized with ≤5 years of demographic data that did not consider stochasticity, genetics, density dependence, seed banks, vegetative reproduction, dormancy, threats, or management strategies. Population growth rates for different populations of the same species or for the same population at different points in time were often statistically different or varied by >10%. Therefore, PVAs parameterized with underlying vital rates that vary to this degree may not accurately predict recovery objectives across a species’ entire distribution or over longer time scales. We assert that PVA, although an important tool as part of an adaptive‐management program, can help to determine quantitative recovery criteria only if more long‐term data sets that capture spatiotemporal variability in vital rates become available. Lacking this, there is a strong need for viable and comprehensive methods for determining quantitative, science‐based recovery criteria for endangered species with minimal data availability. Uso Actual y Potencial del Análisis de Viabilidad Poblacional para la Recuperación de Especies de Plantas Enlistadas en el Acta de Especies En Peligro de E.U.A     

Reexamining the Minimum Viable Population Concept for Long‐Lived Species

For decades conservation biologists have proposed general rules of thumb for minimum viable population size (MVP); typically, they range from hundreds to thousands of individuals. These rules have shifted conservation resources away from small and fragmented populations. We examined whether iteroparous, long‐lived species might constitute an exception to general MVP guidelines. On the basis of results from a 10‐year capture‐recapture study in eastern New York (U.S.A.), we developed a comprehensive demographic model for the globally threatened bog turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii), which is designated as endangered by the IUCN in 2011. We assessed population viability across a wide range of initial abundances and carrying capacities. Not accounting for inbreeding, our results suggest that bog turtle colonies with as few as 15 breeding females have >90% probability of persisting for >100 years, provided vital rates and environmental variance remain at currently estimated levels. On the basis of our results, we suggest that MVP thresholds may be 1–2 orders of magnitude too high for many long‐lived organisms. Consequently, protection of small and fragmented populations may constitute a viable conservation option for such species, especially in a regional or metapopulation context. Reexaminando el Concepto de Población Mínima Viable para Especies Longevas Resumen     

流动沙漠腹地咸水滴灌林地土壤微生物的种群特征

土壤微生物种群结构和多样性研究是了解土壤物质和能量状况的重要途径之一.本文选择磷脂脂肪酸甲酯法和培养计数法,对塔里木沙漠公路防护林地土壤微生物种群特征作了分析.旨在为沙漠公路防护林地的稳定性建设提供理论支持.结果表明,塔里木沙漠公路防护林地建设后土壤微生物数量明显增加,防护林定植年限越长,土壤微生物数量越大,且细菌是优势类群,数量远大于放线菌和真菌.防护林地的建设促进了土壤微生物脂肪酸多样性的提高,脂肪酸种类显著增加,但土层间无明显差异.C14∶0、C15∶0、C16∶0、C17∶0、C18:1ω9、C18∶0、C18∶20ω6和C21∶0是林地土壤微生物脂肪酸的优势种,经主成分分析和回归分析后得出C14∶0、C16∶0、C18∶0可有效指示土壤微生物总数量;C15∶0、C17∶0可用来标记土壤细菌和放线菌;而C18∶1ω9和C18∶2ω6与土壤真菌密切相关.磷脂脂肪酸甲酯法研究结果能够较好地反映塔里木沙漠公路防护林地土壤微生物的种群结构变化.图2表4参17     

Demographic Analyses of a Hunted Black Bear Population with Access to a Refuge

Studying one of two bear species not experiencing widespread population decline, provides insight into the population responses of the six bear species that are in decline and into responses of other long-lived species for which data are difficult to collect. Black bear ( Ursus americanus ) sanctuaries were established in North Carolina (U.S.) in 1971 to protect core populations of bears and to provide dispersing bears for hunting. Population index values, derived from counts of bears visiting bait stations, were significantly greater inside the Pisgah Bear Sanctuary than outside and were greater along trails than along roads. Survivorship of bears outfitted with transmitter collars was greater for sanctuary bears alone than for sanctuary plus non-sanctuary bears. Monte Carlo analyses of Leslie matrices showed that the bear population in the sanctuary would be stable if cub survivorship, p ₀, was about O.7, and the population in the sanctuary plus the surrounding area would be stable if p ₀ was about 0.83. Estimates of litter survivorship in North Carolina indicate, however, that p ₀ can not exceed O.71. Overall, the matrix analyses indicated an ultimate population decline in the total bear population (sanctuary plus surrounding area). The population index of the bait station did not show a discernible decline. The Pisgah Bear Sanctuary provides dispersing bears for hunters and provides some protection for the resident bears. The sanctuary may not, however, provide resident bears with enough protection to maintain a viable breeding population within its boundaries. Reducing human access to bears and their habitat appears crucial, either by making large sanctuaries or by eliminating roads.     

The Reliability of Using Population Viability Analysis for Risk Classification of Species

I examine whether or not it is appropriate to use extinction probabilities generated by population viability analyses, based on best estimates for model parameters, as criteria for listing species in Red Data Book categories as recently proposed by the World Conservation Union. Such extinction probabilities are influenced by how accurately model parameters are estimated and by how accurately the models depict actual population dynamics. I evaluate the effect of uncertainty in parameter estimation through simulations. Simulations based on Steller sea lions were used to evaluate bias and precision in estimates of probability of extinction and to consider the performance of two proposed classification schemes. Extinction time estimates were biased (because of violation of the assumption of stable age distribution) and underestimated the variability of probability of extinction for a given time (primarily because of uncertainty in parameter estimation). Bias and precision in extinction probabilities are important when these probabilities are used to compare the risk of extinction between species. Suggestions are given for population viability analysis techniques that incorporate parameter uncertainty. I conclude that testing classification schemes with simulations using quantitative performance objectives should precede adoption of quantitative listing criteria.     

放牧对荒漠草原建群种和优势种生态位的影响

短花针茅荒漠草原建群种为短花针茅（Stipa breviflora）,优势种为无芒隐子草（Cleistogenes songorica）和碱韭（Allium polyrrhizum）,3个种群地上现存量之和可达群落现存量的60%~80%,其数量消长、时空变化及结构的位移均会引起群落的巨大波动。为明确3个植物种群占有空间资源的能力、相互关系及其受放牧影响的变化规律,以内蒙古苏尼特右旗赛汉塔拉镇1999年建立的荒漠草原教学科研基地建群种和优势种为研究对象,于2012年8月在围封区（CK）和自由放牧区（CG）按样带法和样地法进行取样,运用生态位宽度指数、生态位重叠指数及灰色关联度进行数据分析,结果如下。受放牧影响,短花针茅和碱韭主要通过大幅度调节生态位宽度来保证植物种群存活及其在群落中的地位和作用,变化幅度分别为0.429~0.813和0.235~0.828;而无芒隐子草生态位宽度变化不大（为0.556~0.761）,其对放牧影响的耐受性较强。在生态位重叠方面,短花针茅与无芒隐子草受放牧影响后分别与其他两植物种群重叠程度增加,而碱韭植物种群表现相反;生态位重叠程度变化与种对间的竞争能力有关,也与种对间的亲和能力有关,且存在不对称性。     

Impact of Forestry Practices on Fitness Correlates and Population Productivity in an Open-Nesting Bird Species

Abstract:  In the boreal forests of Fennoscandia, over 99% of forest area has been altered by forestry practices, which has created forest with age structures and stand characteristics that differ from primary forest stands. Although many researchers have investigated how forestry affects species abundance, few have assessed how forestry practices affect fitness correlates of species living in altered habitats, and this has negatively affected management efforts. We experimentally addressed the effect of standard forestry practices on fitness correlates of an open-nesting, long-lived bird species typical to boreal forests of Eurasia, the Siberian Jay ( Perisoreus infaustus ). We used a before-after comparison of reproductive data on the level of territories and found that standard forestry practices had a strong negative effect on the breeding success of jays. Both partial thinning of territories and partial clearcutting of territories reduced future breeding success by a factor of 0.35. Forestry practices reduced territory occupancy. Thus, over the 15 years of the study, productivity of the affected population declined over 50% as a result of territory abandonment and reduced breeding success. Results of previous studies on Siberian Jays suggest that the strong effect of forest thinning on fitness is explained by the fact that most common predators of nests and adults are visually oriented and thus thinning makes prey and nests more visible to predators. The consequences of thinning we observed are likely to apply to a wide range of species that rely on understory to provide visual protection from predators. Thus, our results are important for the development of effective conservation management protocols and for the refinement of thinning practices.     

Demography and Population Viability of an Endangered Plant Species before and after Protection from Trampling

Land managers often suggest fencing to protect rare plant species from being trampled in heavily used recreation areas, but there are few documented examples of the efficacy of this strategy. In a 7-year demographic study we examined the reproduction, survival, and long-term viability of the endangered sentry milk-vetch (Astragalus cremnophylax var. cremnophylax) before and after protection from trampling. Demographic monitoring and population viability analyses indicated that the population has fluctuated during the 7 years. Before protection the population declined: 26% of individuals died, mortality surpassed natality, and age of first reproduction was significantly older than post-protection. Fifty-eight percent of the population was severely damaged. Population viability analyses of pre-protection years predicted that the population would go extinct within 100 years. Since protection, the population stabilized, grew, and declined again. Seedlings reached reproductive maturity more quickly. Recruitment increased and peaked in 1993 coincident with abundant precipitation, but again declined in 1994. The total numbers of undamaged plants surpassed the numbers of damaged plants. Models of the post-protection population predict stability. Multiple-linear regression analysis indicated that winter and spring precipitation were significantly correlated with lambda. Both "good" and "bad" climatic conditions occurred during the pre- and post-protection periods. Because of small population size and depauperate genetic diversity, climate will continue to influence population growth. Nevertheless, models indicate that where trampling and bad climatic conditions were coupled, extinction was accelerated. Recovery of sentry milk-vetch will depend on continued protection, augmentation, and environmental factors, although risk of extinction remains very high.     

Critique of the Evolutionarily Significant Unit as a Definition for "Distinct Population Segments" under the U.S. Endangered Species Act

The U.S. Endangered Species Act grants protection to species, subspecies, and "distinct population segments" of vertebrate species. Historically, Congress included distinct population segments into endangered species legislation to enable the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to implement a flexible and pragmatic approach in listing populations of vertebrate species. Recently, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service have proposed a policy that would narrowly define distinct population segments as evolutionarily significant units based on morphological and genetic distinctiveness between populations. Historically, the power to list species or populations as distinct population segments has been used to tailor management practices to unique circumstances; grant varied levels of protection in different parts of a species' range; protect species from extinction in significant portions of their ranges as well as to protect populations that are unique evolutionary entities. A strict redefinition of distinct population segments as evolutionarily significant units will compromise management efforts because the role of demographic and behavioral data will be reduced. Furthermore, strictly cultural, economic, or geographic justifications for listing populations as threatened or endangered will be greatly curtailed.     

A Decision Framework for the Adaptive Management of an Exploited Species with Implications for Marine Reserves

Abstract:  Marine reserves have both conservation and fishery benefits. Nevertheless, there are no general criteria about when and where to establish new reserves, how to evaluate their efficacy, and how to conduct adaptive management to achieve conservation goals. We applied a decision-theory framework to optimally allocate conservation resources between improving data on population status and establishing a reserve for species conservation. Our goal was to maximize reserve benefits given the constraints of a population growth rate that would permit sustainability of resources. We illustrate our decision framework with a retrospective analysis of a 7-year time series on abundance of the leopard grouper ( Mycteroperca rosacea ) in the Sea of Cortés, Mexico. We used the lower bound of the distribution of the population growth rate ( λ ) as a decision rule for determining how many years of monitoring are needed to detect reserve effects. We determined the minimum time frame needed to estimate λ based on a stated level of risk tolerance for four sites. As expected, the coefficient of variation for the λ declined with the number of years of data. This increased precision with additional years of data resulted from the high degree of annual variability in the system. Where populations were slow to respond to reserves, more data were needed to detect a positive λ value. For the leopard grouper case study, confidence in the estimate of λ increased with the number of years of data. Our decision framework may be used to identify the minimum number of years of data needed before a management decision about reserve establishment could be made that is reasonably likely to meet its management objectives.     

On the Use of Surrogate Species in Conservation Biology

Abstract: Conservation biologists have used surrogate species as a shortcut to monitor or solve conservation problems. Indicator species have been used to assess the magnitude of anthropogenic disturbance, to monitor population trends in other species, and to locate areas of high regional biodiversity. Umbrella species have been used to delineate the type of habitat or size of area for protection, and flagship species have been employed to attract public attention. Unfortunately, there has been considerable confusion over these terms, and several have been applied loosely and interchangeably. We attempt to provide some clarification and guidelines for the application of these different terms. For each type of surrogate, we briefly describe the way it has been used in conservation biology and then examine the criteria that managers and researchers use in selecting appropriate surrogate species. By juxtaposing these concepts, it becomes clear that both the goals and selection criteria of different surrogate classes differ substantially, indicating that they should not be conflated. This can be facilitated by first outlining the goals of a conservation study, explicitly stating the criteria involved in selecting a surrogate species, identifying a species according to these criteria, and then performing a pilot study to check whether the choice of species was appropriate before addressing the conservation problem itself. Surrogate species need to be used with greater care if they are to remain useful in conservation biology.