Open AccessConsNet: new software for the selection of conservation area networks with spatial and multi‐criteria analyses
Author(s) -
Ciarleglio Michael,
Wesley Barnes J.,
Sarkar Sahotra
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
ecography
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.973
H-Index - 128
eISSN - 1600-0587
pISSN - 0906-7590
DOI - 10.1111/j.1600-0587.2008.05721.x
Subject(s) - computer science , software , selection (genetic algorithm) , biodiversity conservation , replication (statistics) , scale (ratio) , tabu search , data science , biodiversity , geography , artificial intelligence , ecology , cartography , statistics , mathematics , biology , programming language
ConsNet is a comprehensive software package for the design of conservation area networks (CANs). The software selects areas to be potentially placed under conservation management for the representation of biodiversity surrogates. Additionally, ConsNet optimizes spatial criteria including compactness, connectivity, replication, and alignment, as well as socio‐economic criteria as specified by users. ConsNet uses an advanced tabu search engine to identify efficient alternatives quickly, offering capabilities beyond existing planning software. The ability to perform ongoing interactive analysis with multi‐criteria objectives makes ConsNet an ideal decision support tool for large scale planning exercises.