Systematic Map of Urban Connectivity Research Reveals a Dearth of Validation of Connectivity Estimates.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose of review

Increasing ecological connectivity among urban greenspaces is a global conservation priority to protect urban wildlife. However, effective monitoring remains a challenge, as connectivity models are rarely validated against biological data despite the need for these models to represent real wildlife movement. Here, we systematically reviewed the urban connectivity literature to assess (i) the extent of connectivity model validation; (ii) how validation varies by study objectives; (iii) where urban connectivity research is conducted; and (iv) what types of connectivity metrics, taxa, and biological data are used.

Recent findings

Of the 430 studies reviewed, nearly half validated their connectivity models using biological data, but few used movement data. Stru

SUBMITTER: Habrich AK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12637374 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature