NEOTROPICAL CARNIVORES: a data set on carnivore distribution in the Neotropics

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Conservation Biology
• Zoology

Background:

• Mammalian carnivores are vital indicators of ecological health and integrity.
• They possess high conservation value, and their habitat needs inform management plans.
• The Neotropics host 84 species of carnivores across 8 families.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compile and present a comprehensive, publicly available dataset on native terrestrial Neotropical carnivores.
• To facilitate macroecological, ecological, and conservation research across various spatio-temporal scales.
• To support the development of conservation management plans for Neotropical ecosystems.

Main Methods:

• Compilation of published and unpublished data on native terrestrial Neotropical carnivores (Canidae, Felidae, Mephitidae, Mustelidae, Procyonidae, Ursidae).
• Inclusion of detection/non-detection and quantitative data from 1818 to 2018.
• Data sourced from researchers, agencies, NGOs, and consultants using methods like camera trapping, museum records, and opportunistic sightings.

Main Results:

• The NEOTROPICAL CARNIVORES dataset contains 99,605 entries from 35,511 unique georeferenced coordinates.
• The dataset comprises 79.7% detection data and 20.3% non-detection data.
• 43.3% of entries include count data, offering quantitative insights.

Conclusions:

• The NEOTROPICAL CARNIVORES dataset is a valuable resource for understanding species distribution and ecological processes in the Neotropics.
• Improved understanding of carnivore distribution and habitat is essential for safeguarding Neotropical ecosystems.
• The data is freely available for use, with a request for citation and user notification.