Biodiversity hotspot assessment in the Altai Mountains transboundary region based on Mammals and Aves

various habitat types, and changes in habitat types will lead to changes in species distribution ranges and the unsustainable maintenance of habitats [44, 45]. By identifying KHTs, we can better understand the ecological needs and adaptive capabilities of species and thus formulate targeted conservation measures to maintain and restore the species’ living environment. Our analysis of the LULC data with HR and MR in each region shows that the KHTs have similar characteristics (Fig 8). Grassland accounts for the majority of KHTs for the four species in AMTR, and forest is the second most important KHT for TM and AM in addition to MAR, and for TA and AA in KAR. Additionally, cropland has a larger proportion in the habitats of TA and AA in CAR and KAR, while bareland also has a significant proportion in the habitats of each species in CAR and MAR. Grassland are critical habitats for many mammal species such as the Siberian Ibex and the Altai Maral, which rely on open grassland for grazing and avoiding predators. Forests provide crucial habitats for species like the Snow Leopard and the Altai Lynx, offering cover and prey availability. Forests also support a variety of bird species, including the Siberian Jay and the Great Grey Owl, which rely on dense forest habitats for nesting and foraging. Although crop- land is primarily an anthropogenic habitat, some species have adapted to these environments. For instance, birds like the Lapland Longspur can often be found in agricultural areas, Fig 6. Spatial relationship between species and environmental factors.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0314075.g006 PLOS ONE Biodiversity hotspot assessment in the Altai Mountains transboundary region PLOS ONE | https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0314075 December 4, 2024 11 / 20