The maximum entropy (MaxEnt) model for predicting the potential suitable habitat of species has been commonly employed in many ecological and biological applications by using presence-only occurrence records along with associated environmental factors. Parnassia wightiana, a perennial herb, is a cold-adapted plant distributed across three diversity hotspots in China, including the Hengduan Range, Central China and the Lingnan region. The MaxEnt model was used to simulate the historic, current and future distribution trends of P. wightiana, as well as to analyse its distribution pattern in each historical period and explore the causes of species distribution changes. The results of our analysis indicated that annual precipitation, annual temperature range and mean temperature of the warmest quarter were the key bioclimatic variables affecting the distribution of P. wightiana. Most temperate species retracted into smaller refugial areas during glacial periods and experienced range expansion during interglacial periods. Possible refugia of the species were inferred to be located in the Hengduan Range and Qinling Regions.

Advancing the construction of the proposed Zhe-Gan Canal in China would connect the major water systems of Poyang Lake and Qiantang River, opening up new channels for low-cost freight transportation, guiding industrial trade, and forming a new pattern of inland shipping. Here we analyze the regional environment, resources, and ecology in the proposed development zone of the Zhe-Gan Canal, to assess the potential for ecological protection of the river basin while promoting industrial transfers. We will also explore construction solutions for channel locks, water supply, environmental protection practices, and project investment. Thus, this study aims to give a holistic analysis of the comparative advantages of water transportation and the coordinated development of regional economies with the proposed construction of the Zhe-Gan Canal.