Since the Convention on Biological Diversity has been passed the conservation of species diversity has catched the public attention. Because of the vast amount of plant and animal species the implementation of the convention needs efficient methods for the inventory and monitoring of biodiversity, which is necessary to documentate, whether the chosen managment measures are effective. One of these methods is the application of "umbrella species", whose presence or population development should indicate the presence oder population development of further species. The target of this study is to investigate, in how far this approach can work in practical conservation planning.After defining the indicator concept in general and the species related indicator concepts in particular and after clearing the relevant theoretical aspects of planning theory and ecology, six different methods for the selection of umbrella species have been identified. Three of these methods, the basic ones, are described in detail. The quality of the indication, which can be expected, the conditions and fields of application of these methods in conservation planning ist discussed. Another chapter deals with the classification of ecological space units, which build the spatial reference units for the selection of the umbrella species.Based upon this theoretical analysis, supported by a literature analysis on the empirical basis, conclusions are drawn, what the chances of this kind of indication are, but also, where practical and fundamental limitations lie. Deficits, concerning knowledge, and possible fields for further survey are shown. Additionally hints are given how to improve the application of this type of indication, basing upon the actual knowledge.
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Since the Convention on Biological Diversity has been passed the conservation of species diversity has catched the public attention. Because of the vast amount of plant and animal species the implementation of the convention needs efficient methods for the inventory and monitoring of biodiversity, which is necessary to documentate, whether the chosen managment measures are effective. One of these methods is the application of "umbrella species", whose presence or population development should in...
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