EcoNicheS: enhancing ecological niche modeling, niche overlap and connectivity analysis using the shiny dashboard and R package

Abstract

EcoNicheS (https://github.com/armandosunny/EcoNicheS) is a comprehensive R package built on a Shiny dashboard that offers an intuitive and streamlined workflow for creating ecological niche models (ENMs) and landscape connectivity models. It incorporates tools for niche modeling, overlap analysis, and connectivity modeling, leveraging robust algorithms from the biomod2 suite. EcoNicheS is designed to simplify the technical complexities of ENMs, bridging the gap between advanced modeling techniques and user accessibility. The package offers an interactive interface for streamlined data input, model parameterization, and result visualization. Its comprehensive toolset includes occurrence data processing, pseudoabsence point generation, urbanization filters, and ecological connectivity modeling, distinguishing it from other platforms. EcoNicheS integrates innovative workflows with dynamic output visualizations while emphasizing reproducibility and comparability across statistical methods. Its practical applications span diverse research fields, including biogeography, epidemiology, evolutionary studies, climate change impacts, landscape connectivity, and biodiversity conservation. This versatility makes EcoNicheS a valuable resource for advancing in ecological and conservation science.