Quantifying cross-scale patch contributions to spatial connectivity

Abstract Context Connectivity between habitat patches is vital for ecological processes at multiple scales. Traditional metrics do not measure the scales which individual contribute to overall connectivity of landscape. has previously been evaluated several different based on dispersal capabilities particular organisms, but these approaches are data-heavy and conditioned just a few species. Objectives Our objective was improve cross-scale measurement by developing testing new landscape metric, centrality. Methods Cross-scale centrality (CSC) integrates over measurements patch (hypothetical distances) quantify contribution each or seascape connectivity. We tested CSC against an independent metapopulation simulation model demonstrated its potential application in conservation planning comparison alternative approach that used data. Results correlated significantly with total occupancy across entire our simulation, while being much faster easier calculate. Standard software (Marxan) using data weaker than capturing locations high Conclusions Metrics pattern more efficient full models rigorous interpretable ad hoc incorporation into plans. In reality, matters many organisms like can make valuable multi-scale measurement, planning, management.