Accuracy assessment of datasets on the geographic distribution of aotus spp. using a new georeferencing reliability index

Abstract

Studies on species distribution models evaluate the reliability and discrimination capacity of the models, while the accuracy of the spatial component of the data is often disregarded. The objective of our work was to design and validate an index, the Georeferencing Reliability Index (GRI), to measure and compare quality of different databases containing presence data of Aotus species. The database of A. lemurinus showed the highest georeferencing accuracy (GRI = 0.608) and that of A. zonalis the lowest (GRI = 0.167). Results indicated that there is poor-quality spatial information data for Aotus spp. Therefore, the distribution areas of all species should be more accurately established to evaluate whether they are at conservation risk. In addition, the index can be used to select the most accurate spatial data for constructing a species distribution model. Finally, we strongly believe that the GRI may provide accurate, up-to-date information essential for wildlife management programs.