Conservation in Human-Altered Landscapes: Introduction to Section III

Abstract

Mankind’s influence on natural landscapes is readily apparent in most sectors of the globe, and the frequency and spatial intensity of these effects are increasing. Many of the associated changes are detrimental to indigenous species. And many of the impacts occur at rates that overwhelm the scientific expertise and the socioeconomic and political means available to control them. Applying the science of landscape ecology is one strategy by which we may improve scientific approaches for coping with this crisis. But, if we are to be successful in using landscape ecology to help save large parts of living systems, a broader and deeper knowledge base is necessary. Specifically, we must develop a better understanding of the nature and extent of human-induced landscape changes, how landscape alterations affect organism distribution and persistence, how landscape ecology can be used to avoid or minimize detrimental effects, and what can be done to increase such applications of landscape ecology. These are the subjects of Section III.