Spain: A team of researchers from Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV), Spain, have developed a map which shows distribution of endangered species in Valencia. The map aims to help users know which areas are most important to protect native biodiversity in Valencia. It also provides information about vegetation in their environment, temperatures, rainfall, soil type, etc.
One of the main uses of predictive map is the land management.
Researchers started the mapping work with the evaluation and updating of Biodiversity Data Bank (BDB) of the Generalitat Valenciana on the distribution of threatened flora and fauna species existing along Alicante, Castellon Valencia.
“Subsequently, from these data, we develop different mathematical models predictive distribution. If you know four or five areas where a species is, these models allow us to know where else and how that species likely to be found,” said Eduardo Belda, researcher Gandia campus of the UPV.
As noted by researchers, among the most important areas for conservation of endangered species are the Albufera of Valencia, El Prat de Cabanes, the Pego-Oliva marsh, the marsh-Xeraco Xeresa, and background d’Elx.
With this type of maps, a manager, a developer or any entity, institution, etc. need to run an infrastructure at its disposal the necessary information for your work does not harm biodiversity.
“The case of the construction of a new road serves as an example: this predictive map projected know if the path is optimal or whether the opposite may be detrimental to biodiversity, as it passes through areas where they are most threatened species. If so, based on the map, it could be modified and passing for another place that does not pose any additional danger to endangered species and hence biodiversity, “said Eduardo Belda.
Source: noticias.universia.es
