Habitat suitability models for the sand lizard Liolaemus wiegmannii based on landscape characteristics in temperate coastal dunes in Argentina

Abstract

The knowledge of environmental variables associated with the species occurrence allows the recognition of sites which fulfil ecological requirements eventually used for conservation of species. The coastal dunes of Argentina are inhabited by sand lizards. Anthropic activities have severely degraded this ecosystem, affecting the habitat structure at a large scale. In this context, the effects of landscape characteristics on the sand lizard's (Liolaemus wiegmannii, Liolaemidae) presence were analysed to build habitat suitability maps along the coastal dunes of Argentina. A thematic map of study area was obtained from supervised classification of satellite images to identify landscape characteristics. Surveys were conducted during the lizard activity season, and landscape variables were measured in two spatial units. All information collected was compiled into a Geographic Information System. The relationship between the presence of lizards and landscape variables was evaluated by Generalized Linear Models. The predictions of these models were transferred by using Geographic Information System to habitat suitability maps. Almost all individuals (80%) were observed in semi‐fixed dunes. The analysis of landscape metrics in the two spatial extents showed complementary results. The habitat suitability models suggest that: (i) heterogeneous landscapes composed by disaggregated patches of semi‐fixed dunes and low or null percentages of active dunes distant from the coastline are the preferred environments, and (ii) human modifications such as urbanizations and forestation of dunes, have a negative impact on species occurrence. Suitable habitats were almost absent in those sectors of coastal dunes with highest level of urbanization, whereas they were distributed almost continuously in those areas without human disturbances.