The relationship between forest fragmentation and the potential geographical distribution of psittacids (Psittaciformes: Psittacidae) in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Forest fragmentation significantly influences the potential geographical distribution of certain parrot species (psittacids) in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. Specifically, Eupsittula nana, Amazona xantholora, and Pionus senilis show preferences for larger habitat patches, with their distributions being closely tied to metrics such as mean patch edge, shape index, and perimeter-area ratio. In contrast, Pyrilia haematotis and Amazona oratrix did not exhibit a clear relationship between fragmentation and their distribution patterns. The study highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts in areas like Campeche and Quintana Roo, where high parrot diversity is threatened by human activities. Researchers used Maximum Entropy algorithm-based potential distribution maps and landscape metrics derived from land use data to assess these relationships. Maintaining extensive forest areas is recommended to ensure the survival of psittacid populations.

Plasencia Vázquez, A. H., Escalona Segura, G., & Ferrer Sánchez, Y. (2017). The relationship between forest fragmentation and the potential geographical distribution of psittacids (Psittaciformes: Psittacidae) in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. Revista de Biología Tropical, 65(4), 1470. https://doi.org/10.15517/rbt.v65i4.26482