Considerations regarding species distribution models for forest insects

Species distribution models, or SDMs, have become important decision support tools by answering fundamental questions about where species, including invasive are likely to survive and thrive based on environmental conditions. For an inexperienced modeller model reviewer, the terminology technical aspects of SDMs can be overwhelming, even well-trained modellers struggle understand implications various modelling choices. Here, I outline some key considerations with respect focusing their application forest insects. Foremost, assert that a should developed evaluated attention relationships between insect its hosts, as those determine much places may occupy. In my view, most successful models constructed carefully incorporate honest assessments limitations, sources error uncertainty, degree linkage real-world circumstances it is meant portray.