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Missing in action: Species competition is a neglected predictor variable in species distribution modelling
Kudzai Shaun Mpakairi1, Henry Ndaimani1, Paradzayi Tagwireyi1
1Department of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe.
Plos One
|July 15, 2017
Summary
Incorporating species competition into Species Distribution Models (SDMs) significantly improves predictions of grazer species
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Conservation Biology
- Ecological Modelling
Background:
- Species competition is a key factor in ecosystem community structure.
- Species Distribution Modelling (SDM) often omits species competition.
- Understanding competition's role is crucial for accurate ecological predictions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To integrate species competition into SDMs.
- To assess the impact of competition on the distribution of five key grazer species.
- To enhance the predictive accuracy of SDMs.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Ensemble SDM algorithm.
- Modeled habitat preferences for buffalo, warthog, waterbuck, wildebeest, and zebra.
- Included variables like SAVI, proximity to resources, fire frequency, and herbivore sighting distances.
Main Results:
- Distance to nearest herbivore sighting (competition proxy) was a top predictor for buffalo, wildebeest, and zebra.
- Competition was the second-best predictor for warthog and waterbuck.
- Species competition significantly influences potential species distribution.
Conclusions:
- Species competition is a vital predictor for grazer distribution.
- SDMs neglecting competition may be insufficient.
- Future SDM efforts should incorporate interspecific competition for improved predictive power.
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