Habitat suitability index model for the eastern barred bandicoot, Perameles gunnii

Abstract

The eastern barred bandicoot, Perameles gunnii, is functionally extinct on mainland Australia. Conservation of this unique taxon is dependent on reintroduction, based on a managed captive-breeding programme that provides founder animals. Existing reserves at which reintroduction has occurred are too small to support long-term genetically viable populations. Therefore, reintroductions must be made at a number of sites and the resulting populations managed as a metapopulation. A habitat-suitability model has been developed to assess and compare reintroduction sites. This is the first application of this concept to an Australian species. The model is composed of five variables-size, habitat structure, predation, shape and security-values of which are combined in a simple relationship to produce comparable mathematical statements for proposed reintroduction sites. The model has been applied to existing reserves to test their contribution to the recovery programme.