Ecological Connectivity for Reptiles in Agroecosystems: A Case Study with Olive Groves in Liguria (Northwestern Italy)

Abstract

Agricultural expansion and intensification are major drivers of biodiversity loss, particularly through habitat fragmentation. In the Mediterranean region, traditional farming systems like olive groves have historically supported biodiversity by creating heterogeneous landscapes. This study evaluates the role of olive groves in maintaining ecological connectivity for reptiles in Liguria, Italy. Using a dataset of 5211 georeferenced reptile records and habitat suitability models, we constructed taxon-specific resistance maps and applied circuit theory to model landscape-scale connectivity. We addressed three key questions: (1) Do olive groves act as barriers to reptile movement? (2) Do olive groves provide connectivity levels comparable to those of natural habitats? (3) Do olive groves serve as corridors connecting protected areas? Our results indicate that olive groves do not impede reptile movement, with normalized current flow (NCF) values close to 1, similar to those of natural habitats. Additionally, olive groves frequently intersect with least-cost paths between protected areas, highlighting their role as connectivity corridors. These findings underscore the conservation value of traditional olive groves in fragmented landscapes. By integrating these agroecosystems into regional conservation strategies, we can enhance biodiversity while supporting sustainable agriculture. This study provides critical insights for land management practices that balance ecological and agricultural priorities.

Keywords: agroecosystems; connectivity; olive grove; reptiles; traditional land use practices.

Figure 1

Graphical representation of the study design and framework. Q1–Q3 represent the three questions framed within the study, while A1–A3 represent the analyses performed to answer these questions.

Figure 2

Map of the study area. Dark green polygons represent olive groves. Light green polygons represent protected areas.

Figure 3

Temporal distribution of records included in the dataset, spanning from 2000 to 2024.

Figure 4

Maps of normalized current flow (NCF). (a) Continuous representation of NCF. (b) Categorized representation of NCF.

Figure 5

Boxplots representing NCF values for olive groves and neighboring natural vegetation patches. * Indicates a significant difference with respect to NCF for olive groves (Mann–Whitney test). Therm = Thermophilous.