Table 2 Systematic map inclusion and exclusion criteria, and PICO definitions for the three-stage screening process

Inclusion criteria

 Eligible population

Any terrestrial, marine, or aquatic plant or animal species of wild or captive source

IN: Wild—free-ranging species from natural environments; not domesticated or cultivated

Captive—species born, bred, or cultivated in captive setting (e.g. zoos, nurseries)

 Eligible intervention

Conservation-based translocation operations (i.e. reintroduction, supplementation and introduction) (see Table 1 for definitions)

IN: Conservation-based interventions—where the aim is improving viability and persistence of translocated population. Regarding introduction, this will also include ecological replacement and assisted migration [14]

 Eligible comparator

Studies will not be required stricto sensu to have a comparator present

NA

 Eligible outcomes

All relevant biological outcomes related to the subject population, including space use, demography, survival, reproduction, trophic, behaviour, genetics, and physiology

IN: For full description and definitions (cf. Table 3)

Exclusion criteria

 Ineligible population

Invasive species or population historically introduced for hunting purposes

OUT: Invasive alien species outside of its natural distribution area and that threatens biological function and diversity of native populations

Game/Hunting purposes: if transfer of species is for hunting purposes

 Ineligible intervention

Non conservation-based introductions (e.g. historically introduced animals for hunting purposes or accidental introductions)

OUT: Non-conservation based transfer of species—where persistence or conservation of individuals is not the motivation (e.g. sport/game hunting)

Accidental introductions: any documentation reporting on accidental invasions, pathways, and risks etc.

 Ineligible outcomes

Sources not studying one of either Space use, Demography, Survival, Reproduction, Feeding, Behaviour, Genetics, Physiology

OUT: Non-relevant outcomes that would not enable any interpretation of success. Trophic cascades will not be retained