Using an ensemble modeling approach to predict the potential distribution for the Kashmir gray langur (Semnopithecus...

Comprehensive species distribution data is crucial for assessing threat levels, conservation status and formulating effective conservation strategies. Globally, over half of the primate species remain unstudied, particularly those inhabiting challenging and remote environments. Endemic to the North-Western Himalayas, the Kashmir gray langur (Semnopithecus ajax) is a primarily arboreal forest-dwelling folivorous primate. Its shy behavior and the steepness of the inhabiting terrain in the high-altitude ecosystem makes it highly elusive and challenging to study. We employed an ensemble modeling approach to (i) predict the distribution of species in the Kashmir Himalayas and, (ii) gain insight into the importance of various environmental factors that influence the occurrence of the Kashmir gray langur. Our model, based on 35 environmental variables and 144 occurrence points, depicted forested mountainous areas with moderate slopes at mid elevations and with low human disturbance as suitable habitats for the Kashmir gray langur. The model showed strong discrimination (mean AUC = 0.926; mean TSS = 0.78), with predicted areas corresponding to the observed species locations, thereby supporting both its validity and ecological relevance. Variable response curves indicated a strong association of the species with areas characterized by pronounced precipitation seasonality, moderately sloping terrain, and optimal diurnal temperature ranges. These conditions typify temperate deciduous and coniferous forests, and these forests are increasingly threatened by ongoing climate change and require climate-adaptive management strategies for their conservation. We recommend integrating the findings of this preliminary yet important study into devising effective conservation and management strategies, as well as enhancing regular population monitoring to generate a comprehensive database on the species for long-term conservation implications.