Spatially explicit models for decision?making in animal conservation and restoration

Models are useful tools for understanding and predicting ecological patterns processes. Under ongoing climate biodiversity change, they can greatly facilitate decision-making in conservation restoration help designing adequate management strategies an uncertain future. Here, we review the use of spatially explicit models decision support to identify key gaps current modelling restoration. Of 650 reviewed publications, 217 publications had a clear application were included our quantitative analyses. Overall, studies biased towards static (79%), species population level (80%) (rather than restoration) applications (71%). Correlative niche most widely used model type. Dynamic as well gene-to-individual community-to-ecosystem underrepresented, cost optimisation approaches only 10% studies. We present new typology selecting animal restoration, characterising types according organisational levels, biological processes interest desired applications. This will more closely link goals. Additionally, future efforts need overcome important challenges related data integration, integration decision-making. conclude with five recommendations, suggesting that wider usage be achieved by 1) developing toolbox multiple, easier-to-use methods, 2) improving calibration validation dynamic 3) best-practise guidelines applying these models. Further, robust 4) combining multiple assess uncertainty, 5) placing at core adaptive management. These must accompanied long-term funding monitoring, improved communication between research practise ensure optimal outcomes.