Alaska Gap Analysis Project home page

map of distribution of wood frogs in Alaska click for larger image

species distribution modeling

We intend to map the range (total areal extent occupied by a species) and the distribution (spatial arrangement of environments suitable for occupation by a species) for each species by using a combination of deductive (standard for state-based GAP projects) and inductive (statistical) modeling techniques. By combining the strengths of both deductive and inductive modeling approaches we hope to improve the predictive capabilities of the species distribution maps.

We are currently preparing for GAP modeling efforts by:

1. Acquiring species habitat affinity databases and bibliographies from nearby states and provinces.

2. Assembling pre-existing ancillary data sets for vertebrate distribution modeling and identifying additional data sets that are incomplete or need to be developed.

3. Assembling “species teams” that will guide modeling efforts and collection of expert opinion on target species.

Geographic Information Network
for Alaska