Simulations of populations of Sapajus robustus in a fragmented landscape

•A computer model for dynamics in fragmented environment is proposed.•The model is applied for Sapajus robustus in Atlantic Rain Forest.•Density, area/perimeter ratio and genetic variability are taken into account.•The model describes changes in viability of the studied species.

The study of populations subject to the phenomenon of loss and fragmentation of habitat, transforming continuous areas into small ones, usually surrounded by anthropogenic matrices, has been the focus of many researches within the scope of conservation. The objective of this study was to develop a computer model by introducing modifications to the renowned Penna model for biological aging, in order to evaluate the behavior of populations subjected to the effects of fragmented environments. As an object of study, it was used biological data of the robust tufted capuchin (Sapajus robustus), an endangered primate species whose geographical distribution within the Atlantic Rain Forest is part of the backdrop of intense habitat fragmentation. The simulations showed the expected behavior based on the three main aspects that affects populations under intense habitat fragmentation: the population density, area and conformation of the fragments and deleterious effects due the low genetic variability in small and isolated populations. The model showed itself suitable to describe changes in viability and population dynamics of the species crested capuchin considering critical levels of survival in a fragmented environment and also, actions in order to preserve the species should be focused not only on increasing available area but also in dispersion dynamics.