Analyzing the predictors of attitudes towards the invasion of the Iranian squirrel species (Sciurus anomalus) in Alborz and Qazvin provinces: providing a structural equation model in order to manage and control the invasion process
Subject Areas : Biodiversity
reza
ghasem pour
1
(Ph.D. Student, Department of Environmental and Forest Science, Faculty of Natural Resources and Environment, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.)
Jalil
Imani
2
(Assistant Professor, Department of Environmental and Forest Science, Faculty of Natural Resources and Environment, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. *(Corresponding Author))
Mohammad
Kaboli
3
(Professor, Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources of Tehran University, Tehran University, Karaj, Iran.)
Amir
alam baigi
4
(Assistance Professor, Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Faculty of Agricultural Economics and Development, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran.)
Keywords: Management and conservation of biodiversi, Minimum squares (PLS), Persian squirrel, Invasive Species,
Abstract :
Background and Objective: Today, with the entry of Persian squirrel species by humans into the foothills of Alborz mountain range, especially Qazvin and Alborz provinces, it has caused damage to the environment and local communities. The aim of this study was to provide a structural model of attitudes of gardeners damaged by the infestation of Persian Squirrels in Qazvin and Alborz provinces for efficient management and control of squirrel invasion in the region. Material and Methodology: The present study is applied in terms of purpose and in terms of data collection, it is of survey type. In this study, a questionnaire was used in Alborz and Qazvin provinces. Validity of the questionnaire from three methods; Convergent validity, Factor Analysis and Divergent validity was used; And for the reliability of the questionnaire in two methods; Cronbach's alpha and sequential theta were used and the questionnaire was reviewed and validated; The statistical population of gardeners is damaged; Its size was estimated based on the Cochran's formula of 392 people. Then the structural equation model with partial least squares method was used to estimate the Unknown parameters of the model used. Findings: Research findings showed, the degree of agreement with control strategies, Knowledge about squirrels and ethical considerations are the most important determinants of a reliable level 99% P≤0.01 Respectively with effect coefficients 0.330, 0.256, -0.258 has a Meaningful effect on attitudes damaged gardeners. our other findings showed that the damage factor as an independent external factor added to the model had the most significant effect on the 99% confidence level of P P≤0.01 on the attitude of ethical considerations, beliefs, squirrel control feasibility and agreement with control strategies; There is with effect coefficients -0.236, -0.172, -0.175, 0.244. Discussion and Conclusion: The results of the study indicate that increasing knowledge and awareness about the effects and harms of squirrel invasion in the region is the main factor in increasing public support for control management or eradication of invasive squirrels.
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