Simulated DNA metabarcoding dataset for Macquarie Island Marine Predators

Published: 2026-07-13

Simulated marine predator dietary data based on DNA metabarcoding datasets from Macquarie Island marine predators. The dataset was developed to support a modelling study investigating how methodological factors influence the representation of trophic interactions and food web structure under various perturbations. Simulated diets were generated using empirical dietary patterns from Macquarie Island predators and incorporate varying levels of dietary weighting, taxonomic resolution, and DNA metabarcoding detection probabilities. The dataset includes simulation input parameters, prey occurrence, and detection probability values used to inform and evaluate model outcomes. These data enable assessment of how sampling design and analytical choices may affect the interpretation of dietary datasets and the construction of ecological networks.