Connectivity

Question 1

Describe connectivity in relation to wetlands.

Answer 1

They are an important connection between land and water systems.

Connectivity results in nutrient transfer through predation of YOY fish (by birds, mammals, other fish), by benthic fish (e.g., catfish) consuming the benthos and detritus then leaving to open water, and by migratory fish entering and leaving wetlands brining/taking nutrients with them.

Change in water levels of connecting water body also provides connection point via inundation.

Connection to larger body of water required for migratory fishes.

(Jude & Pappas, 1992)

Question 2

What is landscape connectivity based on?

Answer 2

1. populations of many species are distributed across disjunct patches of habitat
2. the persistence of such populations depends not only on reproduction and survival but also on movement of individuals between the patches of habitat
3. there are features of landscapes – both natural and humanmade – that can help or hinder movements between the patches

(Fahrig et al, 2021)