A Predictive Model of Yellow Spotted River Turtle (Podocnemis unifilis) Encounter Rates at Basking Sites in Lowland Eastern Bolivia
Summary
Develops a spatial predictive model for turtle encounter rates at basking sites in Bolivian lowlands, informing conservation strategies for this vulnerable freshwater species.
Abstract
The yellow spotted river turtle (Podocnemis unifilis) is a vulnerable freshwater species in South America whose populations face pressure from harvesting and habitat loss. This study develops a spatial predictive model of turtle encounter rates at basking sites in lowland eastern Bolivia, using environmental and landscape variables to identify key habitat features.
Why It Matters
Predictive spatial models for threatened species support:
- Targeted conservation efforts in resource-limited settings
- Habitat protection and management planning
- Understanding species-environment relationships
- Monitoring population trends across large landscapes
Key Findings
- Environmental variables including river characteristics and vegetation predict turtle encounter rates
- The model identifies high-priority basking sites for conservation focus
- Spatial patterns reveal habitat features critical for turtle populations
- Results provide a replicable framework for freshwater species conservation in tropical lowlands
Citation
Conway-Gomez, K., Reibel, M., & Mihiar, C. (2014). A predictive model of yellow spotted river turtle (Podocnemis unifilis) encounter rates at basking sites in lowland eastern Bolivia. Applied Geography, 53, 332-340. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apgeog.2014.06.024