This text is part of the special Research section: climate issues
Researchers from McGill University have identified “hot spots,” that is, places where many species at risk live. Their work should allow governments to better plan the protection of these crucial areas for biodiversity.
The study, supervised by Anna Hargreaves, a researcher and professor of biology at McGill University, shows where nationally and globally threatened species are found across taxonomic groups such as mammals, birds, reptiles and plants, among others. “This is the first time that these data have been combined,” rejoices the professor.
By assessing the geographic overlap of all these groups, priority hotspots for protection could be identified, in order to protect a diverse set of species at risk in Canada. “These zones are a good starting point to then target the places to be protected locally,” says Marie Hardouin, co-author of the study carried out as part of her doctoral thesis.
An area of 100 km² — approximately twice the size of the city of Brossard — can contain more than 130 threatened species. The researchers also noted that more than half of the hotspots for imperiled birds are also hotspots for insects. In other words, protecting a small fraction of Canadian territory could protect the habitat of a large number of diverse species at risk.
Protect nationally and globally
As Canada is a high-latitude country, the majority of its nationally threatened species are found at the northern edge of their geographic range, and are more widespread south of our borders. They are therefore not necessarily considered at risk in these territories. “There is debate about how to prioritize their protection and criticism that this would prevent a focus on species considered globally at risk,” explains Marie Hardouin.
Yet the researchers found that more than half (56%) of the areas with the highest concentrations of nationally threatened species are also global hotspots. “This shows that protecting habitats for these two groups is not necessarily incompatible and can, on the contrary, be mutually beneficial,” she adds.
Hurry up
Currently, more than two-thirds of species at risk in Canada are protected in less than 10% of their range, and the most threatened species are the least well protected. Protecting endangered species is a key element in preserving Canada’s biodiversity. “The loss and degradation of their habitat constitutes one of the main threats to these species,” recalls Marie Hardouin. Most hotspots are found where there is a high concentration of humans and where what remains of nature is weakened by land clearing and development.
“Protecting habitat is complicated, everyone wants to contribute and we often go against economic interests,” says Anna Hargreaves. But our study shows that by choosing the right piece of land, you can have a very big impact on conservation. »
Once species are designated as at risk, this does not always result in direct action by governments. “Many species at risk are located in southern Canada, but the federal government controls little land there,” emphasizes Professor Hargreaves. Most often, it is up to the provinces to take care of this, but it is not always their priority. »
However, it recognizes a growing political interest, in the context where Canada has committed to protecting 30% of its territory by 2030. If a better understanding of the challenges emerges, an effort of coordination and consultation between the different orders of government, including First Peoples, is fundamental to moving forward.
Looking for solutions for discreet species
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