Synthesis of giant panda habitat suitability evaluations

Degradation, fragmentation, and habitat loss significantly threaten the survival of giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca). Habitat suitability evaluations (HSEs) represent a crucial component of giant panda habitat research. However, a systematic review of HSE research on giant pandas has not been conducted in recent years. To make up for that, we synthesised HSE research on giant pandas publicated from 2013 to 2022 and conducted a comprehensive analysis of the evaluation scale, evaluation methods, and research findings. We found a correlation between the geographical distribution of giant pandas and HSE-based studies on giant pandas. Furthermore, we observed a trend towards interdisciplinary and large-scale research. Although the evaluation accuracy has improved compared to that of earlier work, some limitations still remain, such as concentrated evaluation areas, incomplete indicators, and outdated data. Current HSE research on giant pandas helps determine suitable habitat distributions, facilitating protection strategies and management planning for protected areas. We suggest that future research should prioritize those unexplored or under-evaluated areas, incorporate a broader range of microenvironmental indicators, and update data resources and methodologies. This study bridges the gap in systematic reviews on HSEs of the giant panda and provides valuable references and recommendations for future research as well as the protection and management of giant panda habitats.