Island Biogeography Calculator

This advanced calculator is designed for ecologists and researchers to model species distribution on islands. It helps in understanding the impact of island size and distance from the mainland on biodiversity.

Results

Potential Species Count: 0

Data Source and Methodology

All calculations are based on the MacArthur-Wilson equilibrium model of island biogeography. Read more about the methodology. All calculations adhere to the formulas and data provided by this source.

The Formula Explained

$$ S = \frac{IA}{D} $$

Where $S$ is species count, $I$ is immigration rate, $A$ is island area, and $D$ is distance from the mainland.

Glossary of Variables

Island Size (A): The area of the island in square kilometers.
Distance to Mainland (D): The distance from the island to the nearest mainland in kilometers.
Species Richness (S): The number of different species expected on the island.

How It Works: A Step-by-Step Example

To calculate the potential species count, input the island size, distance to the mainland, and estimated species richness. The calculator applies the MacArthur-Wilson model to estimate biodiversity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is island biogeography?

Island biogeography is the study of the species composition and species richness on islands.

Why are island size and distance important?

Larger islands can support more species, and islands closer to the mainland have higher immigration rates.

Can this model be used for non-island habitats?

Yes, similar principles can be applied to isolated habitats like mountaintops.

How accurate is the model?

While useful, the model is a simplification and may not capture all ecological factors.

What other factors influence species distribution?

Factors include habitat diversity, evolutionary history, and ecological interactions.

Tool developed by Ugo Candido. Content reviewed by Expert Team. Last reviewed for accuracy on: October 1, 2023.

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