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

walls [28]. Moreover, most transboundary corridors (79.13%) are distributed within protected areas of various countries, which greatly increases the possibility of precise protection. These corridors facilitate the movement of species across borders, ensuring genetic flow and reduc- ing the risk of inbreeding. This is particularly important for large mammals that require exten- sive territories and connectivity between different habitat patches to maintain viable populations. Furthermore, these identified areas and corridors contribute to regional conservation strategies by enhancing habitat connectivity, allowing species to migrate in response to environmental changes, and providing a buffer against habitat fragmentation. By maintain- ing and improving these corridors, we can support genetic diversity and species resilience, which are crucial for adapting to climate change and other environmental pressures. For instance, corridors connecting protected areas can help mitigate the impacts of habitat loss by providing alternative routes for species migration and dispersal, thereby reducing the likelihood of local extinctions. This integrated approach not only benefits individual species but also strengthens the overall ecological network, promoting a more resilient and sustain- able ecosystem. Implementing these strategies at a regional level requires coordinated efforts among the countries involved. This includes harmonizing conservation policies, sharing data and resources, and engaging in joint conservation projects. Transboundary cooperation can

enhance the effectiveness of conservation measures by addressing ecological processes that transcend national borders [57]. For example, synchronized monitoring and management activities can lead to better protection of migratory routes and critical habitats, while joint research initiatives can improve our understanding of species’ responses to environmental changes and inform adaptive management practices. These comprehensive analyses and rec- ommendations underscore the critical need for continued and enhanced transboundary coop- eration to effectively protect biodiversity in the AMTR. By addressing both current and future challenges, such strategies aim to ensure the resilience and sustainability of this ecologically significant region. Fig 10. Protected area coverage of KBAs in each region. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0314075.g010 PLOS ONE Biodiversity hotspot assessment in the Altai Mountains transboundary region PLOS ONE | https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0314075 December 4, 2024 15 / 20