ANALYZING THE VELOCITY OF ANIMAL RANGE EXPANSION

In this paper we consider the prediction of the velocity of animal range expansion from life-history parameters. Approximation formulae are presented with which the velocity of range expansion can be calculated. These formulae are more generally applicable than the Fisher-Skellam velocity often used in ecology and biogeography. Parameter estimation from field data is considered. Using the approximation formulae and parameters estimated from literature data several biological invasions are analysed, the collared dove (Streptopelia decaocto Friv.), the muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus L.), the starling (Sturnus vulgaris L.), the cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis L.) and the house sparrow (Passer domesticus L.). On the basis of these examples, we discuss the predictability of the velocity of spatial population expansion. A comparison with the classical Fisher-Skellam model is made throughout the paper.