Barbosa A.M., Sillero N., Martínez-Freiría F., Real R.

Book Description: Ecological modeling is a fast growing science. More and more innovative methodologies and theories on ecological modeling are emerging around the world. This book presents models, methods and theories on ecological modeling. Topics discussed include artificial neural networks; individual-based modeling; ecological niche models; landscape and GIS modeling; population dynamics; nutritional ecology; remote sensing and decision support systems. This book reflects recent achievements of scientists in the study of ecological modeling.

Chapter summary: We present a review of the concepts and methods associated to ecological niche modeling illustrated with the published works on amphibians and reptiles of the Mediterranean Basin, one of the world's biodiversity hotspots for conservation priorities. We start by introducing ecological niche models, analyzing the various concepts of niche and the modeling methods associated to each of them. We list some conceptual and practical steps that should be followed when modeling, and highlight the pitfalls that should be avoided. We then outline the history of ecological modeling of Mediterranean amphibians and reptiles, including a variety of aspects: identification of the ecological niche; detection of common distribution areas (chorotypes) and other biogeographical patterns; analysis and prediction of species richness patterns; analysis of the expansion of native and invasive species; integration of molecular data with spatial modeling; identification of contact zones between related taxa; assessment of species' conservation status; and prediction of future conservation problems, including the effects of global change. We conclude this review with a discussion of the research that still needs to be developed in this area.