Ecological Modeling
Ecological "niche modeling" using presence-only locality data and large-scale environmental variables provides a powerful tool for identifying and mapping suitable habitat for species over large spatial extents. In collaboration with colleagues from USGS, we have developed a new modeling technique that identifies a minimum (rather than an optimum) set of basic habitat requirements for a species, assuming that limiting factors are more likely to be informative concerning a species' distribution. Initial tests of the modeling approach using regional data for California Gnatcatchers suggest that it is robust, and we continue to collect validation data to explore its predictive possibilites at local and regional scales.
People
John Rotenberry, Professor of Biology (email) Kristin Preston, Professional Researcher (email) Robert Johnson, GIS Specialist (email) Cameron Barrows, Desert Studies Initiative Coordinator (email)
Associated Projects
Testing ecological niche models for sensitive coastal sage scrub brid species University of Californa Davis, Wildlife Health Center, Resource Assessment Program Principal Investigator: John Rotenberry
Testing ecological niche models for sensitive coastal sage scrub species Shipley-Skinner-Riverside County Principal Investigator: John Rotenberry
CDFG Contract for surveys in Sierra Nevada and Riverside County California Department of Fish and Game Principal Investigator: John Rotenberry
CALTRANS and CCB: WRCMSHCP Niche Model Task Order University of Californa Davis and Caltrans Princippal Investigator: John Rotenberry
Modeling the distribution of plant and animal communities along the Baja California Peninsula UC MEXUS-CONACYT Principal Investigator: John Rotenberry