Analysis of Priority Conservation Areas Using Habitat Quality Models and MaxEnt Models

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Conservation Biology
• Spatial Analysis

Background:

• Yellow-throated martens (Martes flavigula) and leopard cats (Prionailurus bengalensis) are endangered forest-dependent species.
• Habitat fragmentation poses a significant threat to their survival in Korea.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify core habitat areas for yellow-throated martens and leopard cats.
• To determine priority conservation areas by analyzing gaps in existing protected zones.
• To inform strategies for endangered species habitat conservation and biodiversity protection.

Main Methods:

• Utilized InVEST-HQ and MaxEnt models to assess habitat quality and predict species occurrence.
• Integrated model outputs to identify the most suitable habitats for both species.
• Conducted a gap analysis of current protected areas to pinpoint conservation needs.

Main Results:

• Habitat quality varied from 0 to 0.86, with high suitability aligning with Grade 1 areas on the Environmental Conservation Value Assessment Map.
• Identified core habitats, with 14.7% primarily in reserves like Baekdudaegan Mountains.
• Found that 12.9% of suitable habitat lies outside protected areas, highlighting significant conservation gaps.

Conclusions:

• Priority conservation areas were identified, characterized by over 95% forest cover, crucial for yellow-throated martens and leopard cats.
• The study provides an objective basis for protected area designation and assessment for endangered species.
• Findings support enhanced biodiversity and ecosystem conservation efforts in Korea.