| Abstract Detail
Conservation Biology Johnson, Sara [1], Coons, Janice [2], Zaya, David [3], Molano-Flores, Brenda [4]. Habitat Suitability Models as a Conservation Tool for a Rare Mint, Macbridea alba. Many rare and at-risk species exhibit a paucity of research, leaving gaps in the knowledge required to conserve them. Macbridea alba Chapman (White birds-in-a-nest, Lamiaceae) is a federally threatened and state endangered herbaceous mint restricted to a narrow distribution in the longleaf pine ecosystem of the Florida panhandle. Habitat conversion and destruction are among the primary reasons for Macbridea alba’s decline. Populations are highly fragmented by plantations, clear cuts, or development resulting in extirpation in some areas. Whereas known Macbridea alba populations are primarily found within Apalachicola National Forest, it is uncertain exactly how many exist, and few are documented outside of protected areas. There are many unknowns regarding the ecology of this species; however, previous research suggests that microhabitat differences and disturbance play an important role in its reproduction and survival. Habitat suitability models are a useful tool for gaining insight into the potential drivers of species distribution and persistence on the landscape. These models can define the environmental predictors of occurrence and facilitate the discovery of previously unknown populations. Additionally, these models can guide conservation of areas for potential reintroduction based on habitat conditions and proximity to known source populations. Using Maxent, we created a habitat suitability model using known occurrence records for Macbridea alba as well as open sourced environmental spatial data to identify new areas of potentially suitable habitat. In 2019, field surveys were conducted for the purpose of model verification resulting in the discovery of new populations and documenting absence records for the species. Additionally, models using a disturbance variable, such as fire season or time since fire, will be used to determine if these variables are able to improve detection and management of the species. The results from the improved models will help us understand the specific role of fire management and fire frequency on the persistence and survival of this species. Furthermore, it will assist us in defining range limits and environmental parameters for Macbridea alba’s distribution and whether it is a candidate for reintroduction or ex-situ conservation efforts.
1 - Illinois Natural History Survey, 1816 S. Oak St, MC 652, Champaign, IL, 61820, United States
2 - 305 Robin Lane, Minonk, IL, 61760, United States
3 - 5743 N Christiana, Chicago, IL, 60659, United States
4 - University Of Illinois, Illinois Natural History Survey, 1816 South Oak Street, Champaign, IL, 61820, United States
Keywords:
modeling
rare species
conservation
habitat suitability model
Maxent
species distribution model
endangered
GIS
spatial data.
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: CB1, Conservation Biology 1
Location: Virtual/Virtual
Date: Monday, July 27th, 2020
Time: 10:00 AM
Number: CB1001
Abstract ID:101
Candidate for Awards:None |
