What effect does an ecological niche model attempt to predict?

The ecological niche model primarily aims to predict the distribution of species based on their ecological requirements. This approach integrates environmental variables and species occurrence data to identify the conditions necessary for a species to thrive. By understanding the specific ecological requirements—such as habitat preferences, climatic conditions, and resource availability—scientists can model where a species is likely to be found in a given area. This is crucial for conservation efforts, habitat restoration, and understanding biodiversity patterns. As a result, ecological niche models play a significant role in informing about species distribution and the factors influencing it.