Ecological connectivity

Ecological connectivity is the movement of organisms, materials, and ecological processes among habitats. It links habitat patches through dispersal, migration, flows, and interactions.

Landscape ecology: The study of how spatial patterns in landscapes affect ecological processes. It explains how habitat arrangement shapes movement and ecological flows.
Wildlife corridor: A route or connected area that allows wildlife to move between habitats. Conservation plans use corridors to reconnect wildlife populations.
Habitat patch: A distinct area of habitat separated from other habitat by a different surrounding environment. Patches are the habitat units whose connections are evaluated.
Gene flow: The transfer of genetic variants between populations through the movement and reproduction of individuals. Movement among habitats can prevent genetic isolation by enabling gene flow.
Habitat corridor: A strip of habitat that connects otherwise separated habitat patches. Corridors provide routes for organisms moving between habitat patches.
Ecological network: A system of protected or managed areas linked to support ecological movement and processes. Networks organize core habitats and links at regional scales.
Dispersal: The movement of organisms away from their birthplace or current population to another area. Dispersal links populations and determines whether distant habitats can be reached.
Rescue effect: The reduction in local extinction risk when immigrants replenish a small or declining population. Connected habitats allow immigrants to stabilize populations at risk of disappearing.
Landscape permeability: The degree to which a landscape permits movement by organisms or ecological flows. Permeability captures movement through the entire landscape, not just designated corridors.
Wildlife crossing structure: A bridge, tunnel, or other structure that lets animals cross a human-made barrier. Crossings restore movement where roads and railways sever habitat connections.

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