Geographic distribution of the Puerto Rican Harlequin Butterfly (Atlantea tulita): An ensemble modeling approach
Species distribution models have become increasingly important tools for species conservation. This modeling approach can help guide conservation practitioners and inform decisions. Distribution models are particularly relevant for rare species, whose habitat associations are often not well understood. Using species occurrence data, and a variety of predictor variables, we developed three individual distribution models and a weighted ensemble model for the Puerto Rican harlequin butterfly (Atlantea tulita). The ensemble model had the greatest accuracy (AUC = 0.92). Further, the ensemble model indicated 7.1% of the main island of Puerto Rico encompassed suitable habitat for the harlequin butterfly. However, only 0.5% was classified as including the greatest suitability. Using an ensemble modeling approach to delineate areas of the island with suitable environmental conditions may improve habitat conservation efforts for the species.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 2023 |
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Title | Geographic distribution of the Puerto Rican Harlequin Butterfly (Atlantea tulita): An ensemble modeling approach |
DOI | 10.18475/cjos.v53i1.a3 |
Authors | Carlos Ramirez-Reyes, Francisco Vilella, Kristine O. Evans, Garrett Street, Carlos Pacheco, Omar Monzon, Alcides L. Morales Pérez |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Caribbean Journal of Science |
Index ID | 70256463 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Coop Res Unit Atlanta |