nicheR shiny: Interactive GUI for ellipsoid-based virtual niches

Virtual niche simulations are a powerful tool for testing ecological theory, and nicheR provides an integrated, R-native framework for ellipsoid-based virtual niche construction, prediction, and data generation. This project will deliver a Shiny graphical user interface for nicheR, making these tools accessible to researchers regardless of their programming background. The app will guide users through a complete virtual niche workflow across six tabs: data input, niche design, prediction, bias preparation, data sampling, and reproducibility. Throughout, contextual messages will explain the ecological meaning of key parameter choices, ensuring users understand the theory behind what they are building rather than just clicking through steps. A key feature is that every interactive session generates a fully reproducible R script, so users can transition seamlessly from the GUI to scripted workflows. Deliverables include a fully functional Shiny app packaged within nicheR with a run_app() launcher, test cases for each module, and two vignettes. By lowering the technical barriers to ellipsoid-based niche modeling, this project expands access to rigorous, theory-driven tools for ecologists, conservation practitioners, and students across the R community.