Abstract

In terms of integrating the survival of the species in discontinuous landscapes, where habitat degradation and fragmentation are significant dangers to biodiversity. metapopulation conservation models provide a holistic framework. The populations in these models are modeled as networks of discrete patches of habitats connected through the process of dispersal. This emphasizes the importance of colonization-extinction processes in defining the survival of the populations in the long term. When having habitat fragmentation, patch size, spatial arrangement, and connectedness significantly impact the stability of the metapopulation. Isolated and small patches have a higher probability of extinction. Recent developments in modeling have made it possible to make more precise predictions of anthropogenic-driven population dynamics. These innovations have been facilitated through the inclusion of stochasticity, species-species dispersion capacities and environmental variability. Simulation-based studies have demonstrated that maintenance of the interconnectedness of habitats and priority in ensuring that keystone patches are maintained can greatly diminish extinction. Moreover, the integration of metapopulation models into the landscape planning facilitates the process of determining important corridors and preservation strategies that will most likely ensure that species can survive over a long term. The present research can be applied in the evidenced-based conservation and management approaches that can help to preserve biodiversity in the ecosystems that are increasingly regulated by humans. It does integrate the known methods, uses and constraints of the metapopulation models in fractured habitats.