Review
Conceptual domain of the matrix in fragmented landscapes

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tree.2013.06.010Get rights and content

Highlights

  • We outline a new conceptual model of the role of the matrix in fragmented landscapes.

  • Our model combines interactions of three core effects and five modifying dimensions.

  • A mechanistic framework is described that enables better hypothesis design.

  • New priorities emerge to guide future research in fragmented landscapes.

In extensively modified landscapes, how the matrix is managed determines many conservation outcomes. Recent publications revise popular conceptions of a homogeneous and static matrix, yet we still lack an adequate conceptual model of the matrix. Here, we identify three core effects that influence patch-dependent species, through impacts associated with movement and dispersal, resource availability, and the abiotic environment. These core effects are modified by five ‘dimensions’: spatial and temporal variation in matrix quality; spatial scale; temporal scale of matrix variation; and adaptation. The conceptual domain of the matrix, defined as three core effects and their interaction with these five dimensions, provides a much-needed framework to underpin management of fragmented landscapes and highlights new research priorities.

Section snippets

A matrix focus is now both important and possible

Biodiversity conservation often focuses on patches of native vegetation in a surrounding matrix that is highly modified by agriculture or urbanisation 1, 2. The patch–matrix model of landscapes [3] includes patches that are useful for conservation and the matrix in which the patches are embedded [4] (see Glossary). Assumptions underpinning the patch–matrix model are reasonable in many situations, particularly in fragmented and relictual landscapes where there are patch-dependent species 5, 6, 7

Core effects of the matrix

After considering the range of effects that the matrix can have on patch-dependent species (using empirical literature, also canvased in numerous reviews 2, 8, 18, 19, 20), we identified three fundamental ways in which the matrix influences the spatial dynamics of populations and species occurrence in fragmented landscapes. The matrix can influence population persistence in fragmented systems through effects associated with: (i) movement and dispersal; (ii) resource availability; and (iii) the

Spatial variation: the matrix is not spatially homogeneous

Although a spatially homogeneous matrix is often assumed in metapopulation and fragmentation research, many landscapes are characterised by a heterogeneous mix of land uses and habitat types 8, 46, 47. By introducing variation into dispersal patterns, the structure and quality of a heterogeneous matrix can influence the degree of isolation of habitat patches 11, 46. Matrix heterogeneity might also influence the extent and symmetry of dispersal, which can lead to spatially biased movement that

What can be achieved with the new conceptual model?

By defining the conceptual domain of the matrix (Figure 1, Figure 2; Box 1, Box 4) and emphasising how core effects can be modified by the five dimensions, important new research priorities are now apparent (Box 5). Research addressing these questions has the potential to generate novel conservation strategies and improved understanding of ecological phenomena in fragmented landscapes. For example, when there is substantial spatial and temporal variation in matrix quality, it might be difficult

Acknowledgements

Joern Fischer, Laura Prugh, and anonymous reviewers provided valuable feedback on an earlier draft of our manuscript. Thanks to Clive Hilliker, who prepared the figures, and to Nici Sweaney for her Nanangroe photograph.

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