Paleo-species distribution modelling in the marine realm: protocol for a global scoping review

Abstract

Background Studying the spatial distribution of marine species and its alterations through time is fundamental for understanding how they respond to environmental changes, as well as the changes of marine biodiversity, its geographic patterns, and how to best preserve it. Species distribution models (SDM) and Ecological Niche Models (ENM) are statistical tools widely used to investigate distribution range shifts under future and past climate change. The present work provides a protocol for conducting a scoping review (ScR) to assess the contribution of SDM and ENM to the study of past environmental suitability, its spatial and temporal extent and gaps, as well as to identify methodological challenges. Protocol The ScR follows the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology. Two online databases, Web of Science and Scopus, will be used for the bibliographic search. Inclusion criteria will be as follows: studies applying SDM and/or ENM in the marine realms worldwide, with clear methodological details, to identify to what extent they contributed to paleobiology. Both peer-reviewed articles, book chapters and grey literature will be considered for eligibility. No search limitations will be applied regarding publication year, geographic area and source type. Studies in English, Spanish and French will be reviewed. The Covidence software will be used for document selection and data extraction. Conclusions This comprehensive approach will provide a visual representation of the available studies, enhancing the understanding and interpretation of the results focusing on the contribution of SDM and ENM to species potential ancient distribution knowledge, identifying the spatial and temporal extent and the presence of gaps of knowledge in their use.