Rainforests, Rubble & Risky Models

In this talk, Fred will provide an easy to understand overview of the general concepts and objectives of model uncertainty analysis. This tool allows us to make decisions about whether an environmental model is “fit for purpose” despite being structurally wrong.

Camera traps are motion-activated devices used to monitor wildlife. Each captures thousands of images, and AI has vastly improved processing. By pooling data, researchers can uncover insights faster—like tracking cryptic invasive species, such as feral cats, in Queensland’s oldest rainforests.

Disturbance events are increasing on the Great Barrier Reef. These can create huge fields of rubble that are unstable and can cause havoc for young baby corals. But, if rubble is stable for long enough, 'glue-like' organisms like sponges and coralline algae can bind it together, forming a stable platform. Tanya’s team studied how long rubble binding takes, and how strong it is, in different spots on the Great Barrier Reef. This can help us to identify the most vulnerable areas on the Reef.