Design of occupancy studies with imperfect detection

摘要: Summary 1. Occupancy is an important concept in ecology. To obtain unbiased estimator of occupancy it necessary to address the issue imperfect detection, which requires conducting replicate surveys at sites being sampled. As allocation total effort can be done different ways, studies should designed carefully ensure efficient use available resources. 2. In this paper we design single-season single-species with a focus on: (1) issues relating small sample sizes and (2) potential relevance including precision detectability as criterion for design. We explore analytically model constant probabilities examine how bias are affected by numbers replicates used. 3. We show how, sizes, properties depart from those predicted large approximations, emphasize need simulations when designing provide new software tool that assist process. 4. We offer advice on amount replication needed probability detection quantity interest that, case, more reduce number increase per site compared situations where only concern. 5. Synthesis applications. It essential have clearly stated objectives before starting study sampling accordingly. into resources. avoid waste, crucial anticipate quality estimates expected particular The discussion guidance provided here special something not uncommon context ecology conservation.