A pressure indicator for the impact of Iberian wild goat on moss and soils in a Mediterranean climate

Abstract In the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park (central Spain), population of Iberian wild goat, also known as Spanish ibex ( Capra pyrenaica ) has grown strongly since its reintroduction three decades ago. The plant community is now under heavy browsing pressure due to this high population. A study presence moss on rocks was used herein basis for design an indicator, named impact mosses im ), describe environmental exerted by goat in terms removal. Granite and gneiss zones at medium altitudes with continental Mediterranean climate are most suitable areas successful application indicator. hypotheses test are: (1) indicator will discriminate between different levels, (2) explain a proportion loss variance, (3) be useful establish mathematical model loss. proposed analyzed using both statistical data science techniques. results support mentioned hypotheses. Specifically, statistically significant differences were found regarding levels pressure. Thus, variance associated (80% high-pressure areas, 56% low-pressure areas). modified parabolic function fit express relationship mosses. conclusion, shown tool assess goat. Therefore, can help manage populations determine their sustainable levels.