Habitat Suitability Assessment of Key Wildlife in Hainan Tropical Rainforest Based on ESDM.

Abstract

Hainan tropical rainforest is the largest contiguous tropical rainforest in China, but it has experienced increasing disturbances from anthropogenic activities in recent decades due to economic and social development. However, the current status of wildlife habitats within the rainforest remains insufficiently studied, lacking systematic and scientific assessments necessary to guide effective biodiversity conservation strategies. This study focuses on Jianfengling area of Hainan tropical rainforest, using wildlife infrared camera monitoring data and habitat environmental factor data collected through multi-source monitoring in 2020-2021. By applying the Ensemble Species Distribution Model (ESDM), we assessed the spatial distribution of habitat suitability and its influencing factors for seven representative wildlife species, as well as the overall spatial distribution of multi-species habitat suitability. The results indicate that wildlife habitat suitability in Jianfengling study area exhibits a spatial pattern of high suitability in the central regions and low suitability in surrounding areas. Anthropogenic activities and DEM were identified as the most significant factors influencing habitat selection, with most species favoring mid and high altitude areas (500-1000 m) where human activities are less prevalent. This study provides scientific support for tropical rainforest management authorities to optimize resource allocation, develop dynamic monitoring strategies, and implement effective conservation measures.