population-viability-analysis

Run matrix-based population viability analyses and generate extinction risk outputs.

2|Updated Mar 2, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/baratadiego/ecological-agent-skills --skill population-viability-analysis
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: population-viability-analysis
Source: https://github.com/baratadiego/ecological-agent-skills/tree/main/skills/population-viability-analysis
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/baratadiego/ecological-agent-skills --skill population-viability-analysis

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill requires numpy, and includes scripts (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill guides an AI agent through population viability analysis using matrix population models (Leslie and Lefkovitch) to estimate extinction risk, project population trajectories, assess sensitivity and elasticity, run stochastic PVAs, compute mean time to extinction, and perform IUCN Criterion E assessments.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Deterministic lambda (λ) estimation, stable stage distribution, and basic projections from a mean vital-rate matrix.
  • Sensitivity and elasticity analysis to identify the transitions that most influence population growth.
  • Stochastic PVA with configurable n_simulations to estimate extinction probabilities, MTE, and stochastic growth rate.
  • IUCN Criterion E classification based on extinction risk curves and time horizons.
  • Scenario testing (droughts, poaching, catastrophes) and generation of outputs for conservation planning.

Quick Start

Run a full matrix-PVA on the provided vital-rate CSV to generate λ, P(ext), and IUCN outputs.

Frequently Asked Questions about population-viability-analysis

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I estimate extinction risk using population viability analysis?

You can perform population viability analysis using stage-structured matrix models to estimate extinction risk. This Skill processes yearly vital-rate data to project population trajectories, calculate stochastic growth rates, and output extinction probability curves.

How do I calculate deterministic lambda and stable stage distribution for a Leslie matrix?

Deterministic lambda is calculated by analyzing a mean vital-rate matrix to estimate the population growth rate. This Skill computes lambda, stable stage distribution, and basic projections for Lefkovitch and Leslie matrix population models.

Can I assess IUCN Criterion E classification using matrix population models?

Yes, you can assess IUCN Criterion E classification by analyzing extinction risk curves over specific time horizons. This Skill generates IUCN Criterion E outputs based on stochastic population viability analysis and extinction probability projections.

What's the best way to identify which vital rates most influence population growth in matrix models?

Sensitivity and elasticity analysis identifies the demographic transitions that most influence population growth. This Skill calculates elasticity values from your vital-rate matrix to pinpoint critical life stages for conservation planning.

Do I need numpy to run stochastic PVA simulations for extinction probability?

Yes, numpy is required as the core dependency for running stochastic PVA simulations. This Skill uses numpy to perform matrix population model calculations and generate extinction probability outputs across configurable simulation iterations.

Can I test conservation management scenarios like droughts or poaching using Lefkovitch matrices?

Yes, scenario testing for droughts, poaching, and catastrophes is supported by modifying vital rates in the Lefkovitch matrix. This Skill projects the resulting population trajectories and extinction risks to inform conservation planning decisions.