BatTool: an R package with GUI for assessing the effect of White-nose syndrome and other take events on Myotis spp. of bats
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Abstract
Background:
Myotis species of bats such as the Indiana Bat and Little Brown Bat are facing population declines because of White-nose syndrome (WNS). These species also face threats from anthropogenic activities such as wind energy development. Population models may be used to provide insights into threats facing these species. We developed a population model, BatTool, as an R package to help decision makers and natural resource managers examine factors influencing the dynamics of these species. The R package includes two components: 1) a deterministic and stochastic model that are accessible from the command line and 2) a graphical user interface (GUI).
Results:
BatTool is an R package allowing natural resource managers and decision makers to understand Myotis spp. population dynamics. Through the use of a GUI, the model allows users to understand how WNS and other take events may affect the population. The results are saved both graphically and as data files. Additionally, R-savvy users may access the population functions through the command line and reuse the code as part of future research. This R package could also be used as part of a population dynamics or wildlife management course.
Conclusions:
BatTool provides access to a Myotis spp. population model. This tool can help natural resource managers and decision makers with the Endangered Species Act deliberations for these species and with issuing take permits as part of regulatory decision making. The tool is available online as part of this publication.
| Publication type | Article |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Title | BatTool: an R package with GUI for assessing the effect of White-nose syndrome and other take events on Myotis spp. of bats |
| Series title | Source Code for Biology and Medicine |
| DOI | 10.1186/1751-0473-9-9 |
| Volume | 9 |
| Issue | 9 |
| Year Published | 2014 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | BioMed Central |
| Contributing office(s) | Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center |
| Description | 10 p. |
| Larger Work Type | Article |
| Larger Work Subtype | Journal Article |
| Larger Work Title | Source Code for Biology and Medicine |
| Online Only (Y/N) | Y |
| Google Analytic Metrics | Metrics page |