Using remotely sensed and climate data to predict the current and potential future geographic distribution of a bird at multiple scales: the case of Agelastes meleagrides , a western African forest endemic

摘要: Understanding geographic distributions of species is a crucial step in spatial planning for biodiversity conservation, particularly as regards changes response to global climate change. This information especially important conservation concern that are susceptible the effects habitat loss and In this study, we used ecological niche modeling assess current future distributional potential White-breasted Guineafowl (Agelastes meleagrides) (Vulnerable) across West Africa. We primary occurrence data obtained from Global Biodiversity Information Facility national parks Liberia Sierra Leone, two independent environmental datasets (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer normalized difference vegetation index at 250 m resolution, Worldclim 2.5′ resolution representative concentration pathway emissions scenarios 27 general circulation models 2050) build Maxent. From projections, showed broader distribution region compared IUCN range estimate species. Suitable areas were concentrated Gola rainforests northwestern southeastern Tai-Sapo corridor southwestern Cote d’Ivoire, Nimba Mountains northern Liberia, Guinea, d’Ivoire. Future climate-driven projections anticipated minimal shifts By combining remotely sensed climatic data, our results suggest forest cover, rather than major driver species’ distribution. Thus, efforts should prioritize protection mitigation other anthropogenic threats (e.g. hunting pressure) affecting