One example of how mapping processes can be used to expand understanding of habitats is the habitat template approach, which estimates disturbance, vulnerability, and recoverability. Another current effort explores the relationship between ice scour, a natural phenomenon, and sponge reefs that have valuable lessons for impacts of trawling through these areas.
Environmental prediction
In order to make environmental predictions, the relationship between the biota and the habitat is expressed statistically and is the basis for predictive biophysical models. Probability distributions can be used to describe associated biota and habitat preferences. One goal is to establish thresholds for management decisions. For example, what are the effects of climate change? How do these relate to process oriented visualizations in geospatial frameworks? Examples of issues include the effects of climate change, growth rates, temperature anomalies, habitat stability, etc.