Comparing Connectivity in Landscape Networks

Abstract

Existing parameters that measure the connectivity of elements in landscape networks are dependent upon the size of the network, defined as the number of locations in it. These parameters are unsuitable for comparing the connectivity in networks that have different numbers of locations. The objective of this paper is to extend the existing parameters, so that the degree of connectivity of elements in a variety of networks can be compared. These parameters can be used to test relationships between the connectivity of locations and their function in the region and to compare these relationships across several locations in different regions as well as in one location in time. In simulations, we show that the size of the graph affects the values of the parameters derived. However, in contrast to the existing parameters, the degree of connectivity of elements in differently sized networks can be usefully compared. The parameter based on shortest-weighted paths can also differentiate between differently spaced networks.