The selection of forest fragments for conservation is usually based on spatial parameters as forest size and canopy integrity. This strategy assumes that chosen fragments present high conservation status, ensuring biodiversity and ecological functions. We argue that a well-preserved forest fragment that remains connected by the landscape structure, does not necessarily hold attributes that ensure the presence of keystone species. We also discuss that the presence of keystone species does not always mean that it has the best conditions for its occurrence and maintenance. We developed a model to select areas in forest landscapes to be prioritized for protection based on suitability curves that unify and compare spatial indicators of three categories: forest fragment quality, landscape quality, and environmental conditions for the occurrence of a keystone species. We use a case study to compare different suitability degrees for Euterpe edulis presence, considered an important functional element in Atlantic Forest (São Paulo, Brazil) landscapes and a forest resource for local people. The results show that the identification of medium or advanced stage fragments as singular indicator of forest quality does not guarantee the existence or maintenance of this keystone species. Even in some well-preserved forest fragments, connected to others and with palm presence, the reverse J-shaped distribution of the population size structure is not sustained and these forests continue to be threatened due to human disturbances.
A todos que contribuíram com a minha formação em especial as minhas orientadoras Giovanna (IB) e Glyn (CPQBA) e os professores da Biologia e Engenharia Civil. A todos os funcionários que nos proporcionam uma estrutura tão importante: Robertão & Helena (BC), Dê (Bandejão), Neide, Maremília e Rose (FEC), e todos os outros que agradeço imensamente tudo que me proporcionaram.
Aos amigos"De Vieytes nos aplauden: "¡Viva! ¡Viva!", los locos que inventaron el Amor, y un ángel y un soldado y una niña nos dan un valsecito bailador."Uma dedicação especial a minha querida irmã de coração Rosangela, que será citada em muitas ocasiões destes agradecimentos.
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