A hierarchical analysis of habitat area, connectivity, and quality on amphibian diversity across spatial scales

Abstract/Summary

We developed a multi-region community occupancy model to analyze 13 years (2005–2017) of amphibian monitoring data within the National Capital Region, a network of U.S. National Parks. Our analysis reveals how scale can mediate interpretation of results from scientific studies, which might help explain conflicting narratives concerning the impacts of fragmentation in the literature. Our hierarchical framework can help managers and policymakers elucidate the relevant spatial scale(s) to target conservation efforts.