Multiple-species analysis of point count data: A more parsimonious modelling framework

Alldredge, M. W.; Pollock, K. H.; Simons, T. R.; Shriner, S. A.

Abstract:

1. Although population surveys often provide information on multiple species, these data are rarely analysed within a multiple-species framework despite the potential for more efficient estimation of population parameters. 2. We have developed a multiple-species modelling framework that uses similarities in capture/detection processes among species to model multiple species data more parsimoniously. We present examples of this approach applied to distance, time of detection and multiple observer sampling for avian point count data. 3. Models that included species as a covariate and individual species effects were generally selected as the best models for distance sampling, but group models without species effects performed best for the time of detection and multiple observer methods. Population estimates were more precise for no-species-effect models than for species-effect models, demonstrating the benefits of exploiting species‘ similarities when modelling multiple species data. Partial species-effect models and additive models were also useful because they modelled similarities among species while allowing for species differences. 4. Synthesis and applications. We recommend the adoption of multiple-species modelling because of its potential for improved population estimates. This framework will be particularly beneficial for modelling count data from rare species because information on the detection process can be ‘borrowed‘ from more common species. The multiple-species modelling framework presented here is applicable to a wide range of sampling techniques and taxa. ?? 2007 The Authors.

Genre:

Article

ProdID:

70029959

Citation Author:

Alldredge, M. W.; Pollock, K. H.; Simons, T. R.; Shriner, S. A.

Citation Contributing Office:

Citation Datum:

Citation Day:

Citation Edition:

Citation Editor:

Citation End Page:

290

Citation Issue:

Citation Keywords:

Citation Language:

English

Citation Larger Work Title:

Journal of Applied Ecology

Citation LatN:

Citation LatS:

Citation LonE:

Citation LonW:

Citation Month:

Citation No Pagination:

Citation Number Of Pages:

Citation Online Only Flag:

Citation Phsyical Description:

Citation Projection:

Citation Public Comments:

Citation Publisher:

Citation Series:

Citation Series Code:

Citation Series Number:

Citation Search Results Text:

Multiple-species analysis of point count data: A more parsimonious modelling framework; 2007; Article; Journal; Journal of Applied Ecology; Alldredge, M. W.; Pollock, K. H.; Simons, T. R.; Shriner, S. A.