Keitt 2001) indicate that removing patches in this manner is nearly optimal
for the maintainence of metapopulations.
7.5 Discussion
Even though natural systems are complicated and difficult to predict, there
are a few lessons we can derive from the current theory. First, connectivity
of landscapes can strongly influence their capacity to support a metapopulation (see also Hanski and Ovaskainen 2000). Thus, tools to analyze connectivity patterns in landscapes are essential to effective management and
planning for metapopulation conservation. Landscape network theory, as
presented here, is one such tool. By protecting both core and stepping-stone
patches in a fragmented landscape, we can greatly increase the likelihood
that a species will persist. However, analysis of landscape connectivity is but
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Timothy H. Keitt
100 km
250°
255°
245°
250°
255°
40°
35°
40°
35°
Figure 7.3. Minimum spanning tree overlayed on southwestern forest mosaic.
Patches are regions with stands of ponderosa pine and other conifers and correspond to potential spotted owl habitat.