STRUCTURAL CONNECTIVITY OF NATIONAL FOREST “PIRAÍ DO SUL” AND SURROUNDINGS, PARANÁ, BRAZIL

Abstract

Landscape is a dynamic mosaic of interdependent heterogeneous units and the connectivity analysis of protected areas provides elements to achieve more favorable scenarios for conservation. This paper discuss the structural connectivity of the Piraí do Sul National Forest and surroundings, this one defined by means of ecological information provided by flora and fauna. The analysis considered the remaining forest patches and the landscape elements were classified by MSPA (Morphological Analysis of Spatial Patterns). The matrix is the predominant element and false-corridors quantitatively outweigh the real corridors, indicating that the fragmentation process is compromising the structural connectivity in the landscape. Nuclear areas located in Flona are very relevant for the habitat conservation. The land use for agricultural and forestry activities has changed the progressive fragmented landscape by reducing the matrix permeability to the organisms. The use of ecologically significant data on flora and fauna in landscape analysis enhances the conservation planning.