To reduce the uncertainty of using the single-model, or single-emissions-scenario approach to investigating climate change impacts on biodiversity, you can run an ensemble experiment. You can run several different species distribution models for one species, when assessing the distribution under current climate. If looking at a climate change scenario, you can use the output of several different climate models with one species distribution model, or take the average of the climate model outputs and input this into several different species distribution models. This approach can also be used to assess a range of climate change emissions scenarios.
Step 1. Description tab
- Enter the name for your experiment in the first box (e.g. Ensemble Fox (Vulpes vulpes) Distribution)
- (optional) You can also add a description of your experiment in the box below if you want to convey more information. Some researchers use this box to record their research question or hypotheses for later referral
- Click Next.
Step 2. Source Data tab
- Click on the dropdown box under Select Experiment Type
- Here you have three options; SDM Experiment, Climate Change Experiment, Biodiverse Experiment. Select the experiment type you want to run your Ensemble on.
- Click on Select Experiment
- In the pop-up box choose one of the corresponding previously run experiments and click Choose Experiment
- Select the record/s within the experiment with which you want to use
- Click Next.
Step 3. Run tab
- Ensure you are happy with your experiment design
- Click Start Experiment.