A framework for assessing variations in ecological networks to support wildlife conservation and management

Habitat fragmentation poses a considerable threat to global biodiversity loss, making the study of landscape connectivity and ecological networks essential in an ever-changing environment. Of particular importance is the assessment of network dynamics, as it can provide invaluable specific insights for conservation and management strategies. This research proposes a framework to assess variations in ecological networks and identify conservation priorities. In this framework, we applied multi-methods to collect species occurrence and create resistance surfaces based on habitat suitability from the MaxEnt model. By using diverse approaches such as the least-cost model, circuit model, and centrality mapper, we identified ecological corridors between core areas and determined their centrality. Furthermore, we employed multi-level metrics to measure changes within ecological networks. Additionally, we introduced two indices to evaluate human disturbance faced by core habitats. We proposed a novel method that considers core habitats’ centrality and human disturbance to identify conservation priorities. Specifically, using the Asiatic Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus) as a case species, we examined the variations in ecological network and human disturbance across 2000–2020 in Western Yunnan, China. Our study revealed overall improvement with local losses in the availability and connectivity of black bear habitats in Western Yunnan from 2000 to 2020. However, the core habitats have been facing an escalating human disturbance. Our approach provides a framework for assessing dynamic ecological networks that can be applied to diverse species, landscapes, and scenarios. Furthermore, this approach helps guide conservation and management to promote human-wildlife coexistence in a changing environment.