Biodiversity Conservation in Forest Fragments

Ecosystem fragmentation can lead to biodiversity changes due to habitat disturbance and isolation [1,2]. Such fragments retain some biological, physical, and chemical legacies from the formally contiguous ecosystem, but can also experience dramatic changes in these characteristics [3]. Additionally, forests that have undergone fragmentation and isolation may be viewed as islands of suitable habitat surrounded by a matrix of unsuitable habitat [4]. Depending on ecotone width and connectivity with the surrounding environment, fragments may be considered less as individual islands and more as important structural features adding to the habitat heterogeneity of the entire landscape [4,5]. Because of the complexity of legacies, variation, connectivity, and species movement, forest fragments provide a novel study system for biogeography, interactions, and conservation. These complexities often require multifaceted approaches to address the influences imposed on biodiversity and define potential management decisions. This Special Issue focuses on research related to biodiversity conservation specific to forest fragments and includes studies from China, Indonesia, and the United States of America.

Burrell and Bergeson [6] investigated the roosting behavior of the northern long-eared bat, a species severely affected by habitat fragmentation and white-nose syndrome. By tracking individual bats in a small forest fragment, the researchers identified preferences for roosting in solar-exposed, flood-killed snags. This research offers valuable insights into the habitat requirements of endangered bats and emphasizes the importance of conserving specific microhabitats within fragmented forests to support species persistence.

Ferns are an often-overlooked taxon of vascular plants. Cicuzza and Mammides [7] addressed fern diversity patterns in tropical forests through extensive field surveys. The authors identified the importance of soil properties, slope, and aspect on fern abundance. Additionally, the composition of the fern communities was influenced by forest basal area and fragment size variation (small vs. large). This research highlights the importance of soil characteristics and fragment size considerations in potential conservation decisions.

Li et al. [8] present the results of experiments investigating the factors influencing woody plant seedling establishment. Seed predation and seedling herbivory significantly affect seedling survival. Abiotic factors, such as island area, and root competition had little influence on survival. Managing antagonistic interactions (e.g., predation) is crucial to maintain the regeneration of rare plant species in fragmented habitats. Maintaining or restoring plant community diversity in fragmented forests may require predator and herbivore exclusion.

Gunawan et al. [9] provided a review of the implementation of social forestry in Indonesia. Social forestry has the intended goal of integrating social, economic, and ecological benefits. However, ecological considerations, particularly biodiversity conservation, are often emphasized less. By increasing community access to forests through social forestry, there are challenges related to increased fragmentation and disturbance to habitat. Ideally, the strong implementation of social forestry will strike a balance in all aspects and include social, economic, and ecological benefits, leading to the sustainable use of forests.

Howard [10] reviewed the risks associated with flying squirrels crossing wide or frequent gaps, which increase due to fragmentation. Maintaining connectivity between habitat patches via natural and manmade structures (i.e., trees, gliding poles) can positively impact metapopulation sustainability. The author underscores the necessity of integrating key structure types to maintain connectivity and mitigate the adverse effects of fragmentation.