The effects of isolation, area size, and habitat quality on the survival of animal and plant populations in the cultural landscape are central aspects of a research project started in Germany in 1993 (,Forschungsverbund, Isolation, FHichengroBe und BiotopquaIiHit', abbreviated to 'FIFB'). After a long period of preparation, scientists from seven univer- sities and one research institution started to work within the frame of this project. Fund- ing for four years was provided by the former German Federal Ministry of Research and Technology (BMFT), now the Ministry of Education and Research...