2025/03/31 by Owen R. Jones · 2 voices
Computer Science · Mathematics · Environmental Science · #Data Analysis with R #Statistical Methods and Bayesian Inference #Species Distribution and Climate Change
paper · pdf · doi:10.1111/2041-210x.70030
Abstract Matrix population models (MPMs) are widely used in ecology and evolution to explore population dynamics, including assessing management impacts and extinction risk. In comparative studies, MPMs can be used to test life‐history theory or investigate macro‐evolutionary patterns in demographic traits. Simulated MPMs can help researchers explore the effects of life cycle structure, vital rate trajectories and uncertainty in transition rates due to sampling error. They are also valuable teaching tools. The mpmsim R package enables users to simulate random or semi‐random Lefkovitch and Leslie MPMs based on life history archetypes or mortality and reproductive output patterns. It also allows the exploration of sampling error effects and uses parametric bootstrapping to calculate confidence intervals for matrix‐derived estimates. mpmsim provides a convenient toolset for addressing questions about MPMs and life history, with full documentation and user‐friendly vignettes.