Environmental variables for distribution modelling of UK marine megafauna species.
Abstract
The aim of this report is to summarize the environmental predictor variables regularly used in distribution models for marine megafauna species around the UK. It also identifies the variables that are most frequently retained in the final models, and which ones are removed during model selection. This report summarizes the results for different marine taxa (seabirds, cetaceans, seals, basking sharks, and turtles). In addition to providing a breakdown of the environmental variables used in species distribution models, this report also outlines the modeling techniques typically used. The report highlights a wide range of variables that can be targeted in future modeling studies of marine megafauna species with some degree of confidence based on the extent of their successful use to date.