Predicting the potential suitable distribution area of Emeia pseudosauteri in Zhejiang Province based on the MaxEnt model

Abstract

Human activities, including urbanization, industry, agricultural pollution, and land use, have contributed to the increased fragmentation of natural habitats and decreased biodiversity in Zhejiang Province as a result of socioeconomic development. Numerous studies have demonstrated that the protection of ecologically significant species can play a crucial role in restoring biodiversity. Emeia pseudosauteri, for instance, is recognized as an outstanding environmental indicator species, umbrella species, and flagship species due to its distinctive biological characteristics and high public appeal. Assessing and projecting the potentially suitable regions of Emeia pseudosauteri in Zhejiang Province can aid in the conservation of the province's biodiversity in its entirety. In this study, the MaxEnt ecological niche model was utilized to assess the habitat suitability of Emeia pseudosauteri in Zhejiang Province and comprehend the potential distribution pattern and environmental characteristics of suitable habitats for Emeia pseudosauteri in Zhejiang Province. (1) The mean value of area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) for the MaxEnt model was 0.985, with a standard deviation of 0.011, and the model prediction results were excellent and credible. (2) Among the 11 environmental variables used in modeling, seasonal changes in temperature, elevation, and distance to rivers contributed more to the prediction of the potentially suitable distribution area of Emeia pseudosauteri. (3) According to the results of the comprehensive prediction model, Emeia pseudosauteri was mainly distributed in Zhejiang Province in areas with elevations of 50–300 m, seasonal changes in temperature of 7.7°C to 8°C, and proximity to rivers. This study provides a scientific basis for the future conservation of Emeia pseudosauteri habitat and population rebreeding and offers corresponding suggestions for the resource management and industrialization of Emeia pseudosauteri.