The spatial dynamics of habitat fragmentation drives the evolution of dispersal and metapopulation persistence

Because it affects dispersal risk and modifies competition levels, habitat fragmentation directly constrains evolution. When is traded-off against competitive ability, increased often expected to select higher dispersal. Such evolutionary effects could favor the maintenance of metapopulation by fostering spatial rescue effects. Using an model, we first investigate how evolves in a when aggregation this are fixed. Our results suggest that high indeed selects for increase, but effect largely reduced aggregated landscapes, point being nonexistent at highest levels. Contrasted strategies coexist levels with no or low aggregation. We then simulate time-varying scenarios conditions under which happens. Faster evolution favors persistence metapopulation, very landscapes. Overall, our highlight speed structuration will constrain survival changing environments.