Stability#
Description#
Definition: this macro-criterion reflects the ability of communities to fill diverse niches, assimilate energy (productivity), transfer it within and across ecosystems, and enhance and stabilize ecosystem processes (functioning). Inner stability criteria are redundancy (e.g., the same function provided by several species with different levels of vulnerability), ecosystem integrity and adaptivity (e.g., the higher the level of functional diversity, the higher the probability of a system to adapt to new conditions). Therefore, this macro-criterion is mainly supported by functional diversity matrices (for an extended definition see paragraph 3.2.2 in D3.2). Connectivity is also essential to maintain stability, persistence, and adaptation (paragraph 3.2.4 in D3.2).
Example of criteria use: 1. Identifying priority areas where to improve conservation in relation to climatic and non-climatic threats; 2. Optimizing site selection and spatial conservation strategies by providing scenarios (including functional diversity other than species diversity as a benchmark for definition of diversity hotspot) and optimization of sites (or habitats) selection for protection; 3. Evaluating timing for which the management measures implemented in the area will be efficient.
Cambra et al (2024). Guidance for including climate change scenarios in protection and prioritization strategies for Marine Protected Areas development. Deliverable D3.3, under the WP3 of MSP4BIO project (GA n° 101060707)
Kotta et al. (2024) Ecological toolkit (ESE1) for MPAs prioritization and networking. Deliverable – D3.4., under the WP3 of MSP4BIO project (GA n° 101060707)