Image credits: Jeffrey Eisen, Unsplash
Habitat complexity can be enhanced at multiple scales in the landscape. Here we focus on three categories: habitat diversity includes diversity of habitat types across a landscape, structural complexity refers to the variety of vegetation types and structural heights at a site, and plant diversity relates to the richness and distribution of species and functional roles in plant communities at that site.
Habitat complexity within patches is key to creating quality habitat. Increasing vegetation diversity and complexity enhances species diversity in small greenspaces. Different habitats and vegetation types provide different resources, which supports overall biodiversity.
Habitat complexity in urban greenspaces provides many health benefits including supporting well-being, inducing positive emotions, limiting spread of diseases, and protecting against asthma.
Less connected patches with low structural complexity are often unfavorable for biodiversity. However, creating openings between patches and limiting dense understory is likely to increase a sense of safety and align with landscape design expectations. Lawns and open areas similarly have low habitat complexity but encourage physical activity and social interaction.
