Is Reintroduction Biology an Effective Applied Science?

Reintroduction biology is a field of scientific research that aims to inform translocations of endangered species. We review two decades of published literature to evaluate whether reintroduction science is evolving in its decision-support role, as called for by advocates of evidence-based conservation. Reintroduction research increasingly addresses a priori hypotheses, but remains largely focused on short-term population establishment. Similarly, studies that directly assist decisions by explicitly comparing alternative management actions remain a minority. A small set of case studies demonstrate full integration of research in the reintroduction decision process. We encourage the use of tools that embed research in decision-making, particularly the explicit consideration of multiple management alternatives because this is the crux of any management decisions. Reintroductions are an increasingly popular tool for the conservation of threatened species. The number of peer-reviewed reintroduction-related studies continues to grow almost exponentially. Reintroduction biology is an applied science that supports all forms of conservation translocations. Its purpose is to provide knowledge that facilitates decisions about which management strategies to use. As an applied science, reintroduction biology should be driven by, and respond to, management needs. This involves testing a priori hypotheses relevant to management at multiple ecological levels, and explicitly predicting and comparing the outcomes of management alternatives. Recently, a small but increasing number of studies have sought this integration by combining predictive modelling, analysis of experimental and monitoring data, and decision-support methods.