Do Corridors Have Value in Conservation?

Author:	Andrea Bixler Biology Department Clarke University andrea.bixler@clarke.edu
Abstract:	This case study discusses conservation corridors as a means to reduce the problems of population size and isolation in a fragmented habitat. In an interrupted format, students learn what a corridor is, consider how nature preserves and corridors function, and analyze data from an article in Ecology on the use of corridors by various plant and animal species. As written, this case reviews and applies several topics from an introductory ecology and evolution class (population genetics, population ecology and island biogeography) to the problem of protecting species in fragmented habitats. It could be modified for use in environmental or conservation biology courses.
Objectives:	Understand what a corridor is and how it might be useful in protecting endangered species. Apply an array of scientific principles, including those from population, community, and ecosystem ecology and population genetics, to solve a problem in conservation biology. Gain greater understanding of techniques for censusing various species. Practice data interpretation.
Keywords:	Conservation biology; habitat fragmentation; nature preserves; corridors; biodiversity; plant; mammal; insect; butterfly; jaguar; Panthera onca; endangered species; United States–Mexico border
Topical Area:	N/A
Educational Level:	Undergraduate lower division
Formats:	PDF
Type/Method:	Discussion, Interrupted, Journal Article
Language:	English
Subject Headings:	Ecology Environmental Science Natural Resource Management Wildlife Management Biology (General)
Date Posted:	5/25/2011
Date Modified:	N/A
Copyright:	Copyright held by the National Center for Case Study Teaching in Science, University at Buffalo, State University of New York. Please see our usage guidelines, which outline our policy concerning permissible reproduction of this work.

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