Predicting the distribution of the crested tinamous, Eudromia spp. (Aves, Tinamiformes)

Abstract

A bioclimatic analysis of the crested tinamous was conducted to explore climatic factors underpinning the distribution of both Eudromia elegans and E. formosa and to evaluate its potential application in paleontological studies. The study utilized records throughout the entire known range of Eudromia spp. in southern South America. Relationships between 20 environmental parameters and the presence of Eudromia species were established, mapping and characterizing their spatial distribution in a geographic information system using BIOCLIM and MAXENT algorithms. The MAXENT prediction map shows a more homogeneous pattern while BIOCLIM showed a patchier pattern. The models applied here generated maps that adjust to the well-known previous distributions of both species. Nevertheless, for Eudromia elegans, the distribution predicted by MAXENT includes areas where it is actually considered absent, and the BIOCLIM prediction does not include some areas where it is presumed present. Eudromia formosa were found in warmer and wetter sites than E. elegans. Low precipitation areas were identified as suitable for Eudromia elegans. Strong differences between the climatic profiles for both Eudromia spp distributions occurred, with the precipitation the most important influence. E. formosa tolerates the highest maximum temperatures, whereas E. elegans supports the lowest temperatures.