Increased habitat fragmentation

Impact

When native vegetation is cleared, habitats which were once continuous are divided into separate fragments.  These small fragments of remnant vegetation (patches) are isolated from one another by a mosaic of different vegetation and land uses.  Barriers such as roads, powerlines and open agricultural land can restrict interaction of flora and fauna species within different patches.  Patches are often small and can only support small populations of flora and fauna.  Smaller populations are more vulnerable and local extinctions are not uncommon. 

Suggested indicator: Native vegetation area

Habitat fragmentation may be associated with:

Potential associated impacts Suggested indicators+
Reduced habitat connectivity, which reduces genetic exchange between remaining patches

 

Increased edge effects/pressures leading to:

  • changed vegetation condition
  • increased environmental weed invasion 
  • reduced viability of plant and animal species
  • increased pressure from pest animal species
  • Vegetation density
  • Native plant richness 
  • Weed species
  • Weed cover
  • Shrub cover
  • Tree canopy cover & health
  • Ground cover
  • Exotic pest fauna

+ Descriptions of indicators (PDF, 76K)* provides a brief description of each indicator including techniques and purpose.

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Last updated 7 September 2010

Land Manager's Monitoring Guide