Summary
Statistical models relate occurrence records to environmental variables to predict where species can live.
In depth
Algorithms such as MaxEnt and random forests relate presence records to climate and habitat variables. Predictions guide reserve planning and invasive species risk assessment, and project future ranges under climate change.
Presence-only data need background points; evaluation uses AUC and independent validation. Models show correlation, not causal niche limits. Projections to new climates assume niche conservatism.
Example: models forecast invasion risk of the Asian tiger mosquito.
Frequently asked questions
What is Species Distribution Modelling?
Statistical models relate occurrence records to environmental variables to predict where species can live.
Which area of biology covers Species Distribution Modelling, and how advanced is it?
Species Distribution Modelling is one of the 54 topics in Ecology. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Biogeochemical Modelling, Habitat and Niche, Ecology.
Can you give an example of Species Distribution Modelling?
Mapping suitable habitat for the giant panda.
What should I learn before Species Distribution Modelling?
Work through the Beginner topics in Ecology first, such as Ecology, Ecosystem, Biotic and Abiotic Factors, then return to Species Distribution Modelling. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Species Distribution Modelling?
The closest topics to Species Distribution Modelling are Biogeochemical Modelling, Habitat and Niche, Ecology, Plant-Pollinator Networks. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Species Distribution Modelling?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Species Distribution Modelling. To practise the whole of Ecology, use the Ecology quiz.
How is Species Distribution Modelling different from Biogeochemical Modelling?
Species Distribution Modelling: Statistical models relate occurrence records to environmental variables to predict where species can live. Biogeochemical Modelling: Mathematical models track fluxes of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus through ecosystem pools. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Species Distribution Modelling step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Biogeochemical Modelling and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Ecology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.