URBAN REFUGIA
"Urbanization Shapes the Fate of Invasive and Native Species"
Can urban landscapes act as barriers that enhance the persistence of native populations by limiting the spread of invasive species? How do varying levels of urbanization influence the competitive balance between invasive and native species?
Invasive snakes harm endemic lizard populations, but urbanization acts as a barrier, reducing predation. This allows urban native lizard populations to survive, highlighting the protective role of urban landscapes.
Simulations show that intermediate urbanization levels can reduce invasive predator impacts, offering refuge for native species. This balance could be key for conserving threatened urban populations.
Want to know more?
If you want to learn more about this project, you should read the following article!
Vez-Garzón, M., Moreno, S., Casbas, G., Colomar, V., & Lapiedra, O. (2024). Urban refugia enhance persistence of an endemic keystone species facing a rapidly spreading invasive predator.
