Small Natural Features play large ecological role.

[Gloria]

The article I am providing a link to discusses what might have been getting less attention until now. That is the role of smaller natural features in aiding the performance of ecological services. While we have had this information it is in connecting the dots or having that aha moment that change in our behavior begins to occur. Like Tallamy with the insect/native plant importance we begin to see how those smaller features are part of the bigger picture and just as deserving of study and action.

The LOTR reference is cool too.


https://www.sciencedaily.com/release...0705164528.htm

Ecologists and conservationists have long recognized that keystone species have major ecological importance disproportionate to their abundance or size. Think beavers, sea stars and prairie dogs -- species that keep a ecosystem balanced.

Small natural features also have big ecological roles, according to the 37 researchers from 11 countries writing in a Special Issue of "Biological Conservation." Sometimes they can provide resources that limit key populations or processes that influence a much larger area. Sometimes they support unusual diversity, abundance or productivity.

They also are small enough to efficiently maintain or restore, while traditional land-use activities continue in close proximity, such as forestry, fishing and grazing.

"Small natural features are an example of what can be termed 'The Frodo Effect,'" writes Malcolm Hunter, University of Maine professor of wildlife resources and Libra Professor of Conservation Biology, in the journal introduction.
"In the 'Lord of the Rings,' the small and unassuming hobbit Frodo has more strength than any of his larger peers and saves Middle Earth with his brave actions," says Hunter. "Gandalf and the rest of the fellowship of the ring go to great ends to protect him, because they know this."

The July issue of Biological Conservation includes three synthetic reviews on small natural features and nine case studies. For each of the case studies, the authors explore three fundamental questions: Why are some small natural features far more important for maintaining biodiversity or providing ecosystem services than their size would indicate? What are the management challenges facing these features and what are some innovative approaches to conserving them?

Journal Reference:
1. Malcolm L. Hunter. Conserving small natural features with large ecological roles: An introduction and definition. Biological Conservation, 2017; 211: 1 DOI: 1. 10.1016/j.biocon.2016.12.019



https://www.facebook.com/TheHabitatNetwork/

Small, natural features in our landscapes can have a BIG impact. This article presents new and interesting findings about how areas such as temporary streams and ponds and even large trees can have a measurable ecological impact on biodiversity.

[dapjwy]

Good to know that even small natural areas are making an impact.

[NEWisc]

Carrying the concept a little further supports the idea that creating a natural habitat in one's yard can make a meaningful contribution to the well being of many native flora and fauna. For example, creating something as simple as a butterfly garden with native plants in your yard can be very beneficial to pollinators and other insects. Which will in turn benefit birds, amphibians, and many other creatures.

Tallamy has had it right from the beginning - plant more native plants! It does matter!

[dapjwy]

Just like Sara Stein and so many other proponents of native plants, Tallamy is bringing awareness to the general public.

I think (and hope) the native plant movement will get stronger in the coming years.