The role of agent-based models in wildlife ecology and management

摘要: Abstract Conservation planning of critical habitats for wildlife species at risk is a priority topic that requires the knowledge how animals select and use their habitat, they respond to future developmental changes in environment. This paper explores role habitat-modeling methodological approach, agent-based modeling, which we advocate as promising approach ecological research. Agent-based models (ABMs) are capable simultaneously distinguishing animal densities from habitat quality, can explicitly represent environment its dynamism, accommodate spatial patterns inter- intra-species mechanisms, explore feedbacks adaptations inherent these systems. ABMs comprise autonomous, individual entities; each with dynamic, adaptive behaviors heterogeneous characteristics interact other These interactions result emergent outcomes be used quantitatively examine individual- population-level. also will potential environmental conditions, since readily incorporate animal-movement ecology changing landscape. describes necessary elements an ABM developed specifically understanding selection, reviews current empirical literature on management, evaluates roles play, regards scenario designated habitats.