APPENDIX X 383
Each wildlife habitat subtype received a score called a Value to SGCN. These Values were derived
from the number and Tier level of SGCN associated with each subtype (see description of Tiers in
Criteria for Selection of SGCN in Chapter II). They indicate the relative importance of various habitat
subtypes to SGCN and provide guidance in predicting were actions will benefit more and/or higher tier
SGCN. Values are most useful when comparing related habitat subtypes. Three major complexes of
related habitat subtypes have been identified for value comparisons. These complexes are: 1)
Terrestrial (Terrestrial, Wetland, Subterranean and Anthropogenic subtypes); 2) Lotic and Lentic
(Streams and Lacustrine subtypes); and 3) Marine, Estuarine and Estuarine Fringe. Values for
subtypes within each complex are provided on the following pages and again in each subtype's
description.
Gastropods, insects and marine fishes were deemed insufficiently known to warrant status evaluations
comparable to evaluations of vertebrates, mussels, and crayfish and did not contribute to the subtype
value determinations. Therefore the Values to SGCN attributed to some subtypes are lower than
expected. Lower than expected Values related to lack of information are most apparent in some marine
habitat subtypes. Additional work must be performed to include species from underrepresented groups
in future iterations of this strategy.
Since Value to SGCN is derived from the number and Tier level of the species attributed to a habitat
subtype, it does not in all instances indicate rarity or level of threat to a subtype. It may be important to
consider rarity ranks assigned by Mississippi's Natural Heritage Program or other indications of value
when assessing conservation need and implementing actions. Some SGCN are restricted to subtypes
with relatively low values that may not benefit or could be negatively affected by conflicting actions
performed in subtypes with higher values. Values are not an indication of the type of actions
recommended. Recommended conservation actions will vary for each habitat subtype.
The Value was determined by taking list of species for each subtype and their Tier and assigning a
weighted value to the Tier Level. Thus, species in Tier 1 received a Value of 4 (the inverse of the Tier);
Tier 2 species received a Value of 3, and so on.