Habitat models and population viability analysis (PVA) are commonly used in conservation biology. Available programs differ in the amount of required species specific data, number of incorporated environmental factors, and assumptions about demography and population dynamics (Table I). These differences pose a potential problem for conservationists who want to apply PVA. Therefore, for successful conservation management it is important that enough effort is invested in learning the benefits and limitations of different programs. Habitat models assume unchanged habitat characteristics and ignore dynamic processes. Complex habitat models have relatively low applicability due to data unavailability. In contrast, simple models are easy to adapt to new study areas and different scales, and obtaining necessary empirical data is less costly. Programs used in population viability analysis are based on general population or metapopulation models and allow assessing the risk of extinction. Similar to the habitat models, different underlying approaches of PVA force users to choose between simplicity and realism. Model choice can be difficult especially for inexperienced users. Consequently, conservation managers planning to use habitat or PVA models to support their decisions should plan for sufficient time and resources for obtaining training. Finally, it is important to remember that modeling results can be improved by combining the elements of habitat and PVA models and by including ranking of management scenarios.
JavaScript jest wyłączony w Twojej przeglądarce internetowej. Włącz go, a następnie odśwież stronę, aby móc w pełni z niej korzystać.