A conceptual framework for the emerging discipline of conservation physiology.
Current rates of biodiversity decline are unprecedented and largely attributed to anthropogenic influences. Given the scope and magnitude of conservation issues, policy and management interventions must maximize efficiency and efficacy. The relatively new field of conservation physiology reveals the physiological mechanisms associated with population declines, animal-environment relationships and population or species tolerance thresholds, particularly where these relate to anthropogenic factors that necessitate conservation action. We propose a framework that demonstrates an integrative approach between physiology, conservation and policy, where each can inform the design, conduct and implementation of the other. Each junction of the conservation physiology process has the capacity to foster dialogue that contributes to effective implementation, monitoring, assessment and evaluation. This approach enables effective evaluation and implementation of evidence-based conservation policy and management decisions through a process of ongoing refinement, but may require that scientists (from the disciplines of both physiology and conservation) and policy-makers bridge interdisciplinary knowledge gaps. Here, we outline a conceptual framework that can guide and lead developments in conservation physiology, as well as promote innovative research that fosters conservation-motivated policy.
Canadian Facility for Ecoinformatics Research, Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, 30 Marie-Curie, Ottawa, ON, Canada K1N 6N5.
Laura E
LE
Coristine
Canadian Facility for Ecoinformatics Research, Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, 30 Marie-Curie, Ottawa, ON, Canada K1N 6N5.
Cassandra M
CM
Robillard
Canadian Facility for Ecoinformatics Research, Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, 30 Marie-Curie, Ottawa, ON, Canada K1N 6N5.
Jeremy T
JT
Kerr
Department of Psychology, Neuroscience, and Behaviour, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, Canada L8S 4L8.
Constance M
CM
O'Connor
Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON, Canada K1S 5B6.
Dominique
D
Lapointe
Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON, Canada K1S 5B6; Institute of Environmental Science, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON, Canada K1S 5B6.
Steven J
SJ
Cooke
Ecology; global change; physiological tolerance; policy; resource management; restoration