Biodiversity of urban brownfields: modelling species occurrence and persistence in dynamic habitats

Urban brownfields (derelict sites) offer habitat for a diverse flora and fauna, including rare species. The continuous changes in brownfield location (due to redevelopment and abandonment) and in their habitat conditions (due to succession) generate a spatio-temporal mosaic cycle of transient habitats. Aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of brownfields for urban biodiversity conservation and to provide guidelines for urban planning. Statistical species distribution models for vascular plants, leafhoppers and grasshoppers revealed the importance of spatio as well as temporal factors driving species occurrence. Furthermore, optimal settings for urban planning were identified. A dynamic metapopulation model supported these results by demonstrating the positive effect of landscape dynamics for species persistence and biodiversity. Additionally, an exemplary planning study showed the feasibility of the concept of temporary conservation in praxis. In conclusion, species inhabiting urban brownfields depend on different successional stages. Thus, urban biodiversity can be maintained by temporary conservation of urban brownfields.

Level thesis:degree_level

thesis.doctoral

Grantor dc:publisher

Universität Oldenburg

Year

2009

Author dc:creator

• Kattwinkel, Mira

• [Keine Schlagwörter von Autor/in vergeben.]

Repository record source_url

http://oops.uni-oldenburg.de/868

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:oops.uni-oldenburg.de:868