This paper summarizes the potential generative artificial intelligence (AI) has to aid ecological research. With access to more and more data, like genetic information and animal movement data, generative AI could augment data-scarce datasets, extend observations of ecological patterns, and increase the accessibility of ecological data. The paper also covers the challenges to using generative AI such as privacy concerns, biases in the AI models, and the environmental impacts. Lastly, the paper calls on ecologists collaborating with computer scientists to ensure the technology is used effectively and responsibly. These partnerships will help create AI models that better reflect ecological realities and contribute to understanding species and ecosystems.
Authors: Kasim Rafiq, Sara Beery, Meredith S Palmer, Zaid Harchaoui, and Briana Abrahms
Journal: Nature Ecology & Evolution
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41559-024-02623-1
Photo credit: Briana Abrahms
