Networks for LIFE; development of an ecological network for Persiceto (Emilia-Romagna, Italy)

Three ecosystem types were selected, which cover the most important natural habitat types in the study area of Persiceto: woodland, wetland, and grassland. To assess whether these ecosystem types might function for specific wildlife species, species were selected which can be considered representative of these ecosystems. With the landscape ecological model LARCH it was assessed if these species can persist in the present habitat network in the landscape. This is only partly the case: many species suffer from incomplete habitat networks. For these ecosystems aims were defined. In a structured explorative way alternative options to improve the ecological network were assessed. Expected developments or planned measures (opportunities) were also included and expected developments in urbanization and infrastructure development were taken into account. Based on that and the species requirements, a proposal has been developed for an improved ecological network. The proposed network is presented in a practical map, and the potential quality of the designed ecological network is assessed. The analysis shows a potential improvement for all assessed ecosystems. Smaller organisms, both less mobile and mobile species, benefit from the proposed measures. It istherefore concluded that realization of the proposed network will indeed improve conditions for biodiversity in the area of Persiceto.