Potential distribution and landscape connectivity of a critically endangered species, Atlapetes blancae (Antioquia Brushfinch): Implications for its conservation

Résumé fourni par la source

Abstract Atlapetes blancae (Antioquia Brushfinch) is a critically endangered species endemic to the Altiplano de Santa Rosa de Osos in Antioquia, Colombia. We estimate the potential distribution area and habitat connectivity, 2 essential inputs to guide its conservation. We identified 3 priority areas for protection, considering the occurrence of the species, as well as its ecological niche and habitat requirements (connectivity models). We used the maximum entropy algorithm (MaxEnt) and minimum volume ellipsoids (MVE) to estimate the niche and map the potential distribution of the species. We used the habitat model in conjunction with the potential distribution to generate a map of landscape connectivity for the species. Our results support 2 disconnected nuclei within the potential distribution: an epicenter to the north of the Altiplano (513.26 km² according to MaxEnt and 300.12 km² according to MVE) and another to the south (133.1 km² according to MaxEnt and 101.53 km² according to MVE). Connectivity models indicated that suitable habitat for the species is highly fragmented (effective network size for MaxEnt and MVE was 18.88 and 14.08 km², respectively). Finally, we highlight 2 key zones for connectivity that should be prioritized for future surveys, with high probability of finding new populations: one in the north, between the limits of Santa Rosa de Osos and Angostura and the second south of the Altiplano, on the limits of Bello and San Pedro de los Milagros. Given the vulnerability of this species and its disproportionate importance to conservation, our results could inform the establishment of protected areas and sustainable practices to enhance the conservation of A. blancae.

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