Recent Evidence of Scale Matches and Mismatches Between Ecological Systems and Management Actions

Francesca Libera Falco, Shlomo Preiss-Bloom, Tamar Dayan

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Purpose of Review In reviewing the most recent literature, this article seeks to assess whether empirical studies support the proposition that scale mismatches between ecological processes and resource management actions—with a focus on conservation measures—result in poorer performance of those actions. Furthermore, the article aims to identify patterns and valuable insights from recent empirical literature in relation to this conceptual framework. Recent Findings We reviewed 122 case studies in 93 papers published mainly in the last 5 years. We identified the outcomes of the relevant management action and evaluated the nature of these scale matches and mismatches in time, space, and functional properties across five different conservation strategies and five distinct types of ecological systems. Summary Our findings largely support the scale fit conceptual framework. Spatial scale (mis)matches are documented and published far more frequently than temporal and functional case studies. Furthermore, mismatches outnumber matches in the reviewed literature. However, certain realms of conservation practice such as farmland and fishery management were exceptions to this rule. We encourage documenting and publishing more examples of successful scale matches, especially in areas where they are lacking, in order to provide valuable experience and inspiration for the planning of future conservation efforts.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)104-115
Number of pages12
JournalCurrent Landscape Ecology Reports
Volume7
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 2022

Keywords

  • Life sciences
  • Landscape ecology
  • Influence
  • Ecology
  • Case studies
  • Fishery management
  • Reviews
  • Conservation
  • Fisheries

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