Habitat protection and planning for indicator species using MaxEnt model in Alborz
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11917250Keywords:
MaxEnt model, Ecological corridor, Habitat suitabilityAbstract
Predicting and mapping the appropriate habitat for endangered and threatened species is crucial for monitoring and restoring their dwindling populations in their natural surroundings. Additionally, it aids in the selection of suitable conservation sites and the effective management of their habitats. An ideal approach for habitat suitability modeling of species involves the utilization of MaxEnt machine learning techniques. The MaxEnt model was employed to forecast habitat suitability for key species, including Ursus arctos, Capra aegagrus, Ovis ammon, Lutra lutra, Martes foina, Lynx lynx, and Panthera pardus. Additionally, Linkage Pathways were employed to model ecological corridors connecting core habitats, enhancing our understanding of landscape connectivity for these species. The result showed that it is imperative to safeguard these vital areas situated in the northern and southern parts between the two prohibited hunting zones and the protected area. These areas provide the best routes for species to move between two habitats. However, settlements and rural areas pose a significant threat that can lead to the reduction or destruction of these communication areas. Therefore, protecting these regions should be a top priority.
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