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

enhancing conservation efforts, facilitating species migration, and ensuring the long-term sus- tainability of habitats. This study underscores the importance of integrating multi-level environmental data and advanced modeling techniques to better understand the complex dynamics of BHs. It also highlights the critical need for transboundary cooperation and concerted conservation strate- gies to mitigate the impacts of climate change and human activities on biodiversity in the Altai Mountains. Specifically, strategies such as enhancing connectivity through ecological corri- dors, strengthening legal frameworks, involving local communities, and securing adequate funding are crucial. Future research should focus on refining predictive models, exploring the effectiveness of conservation interventions, and enhancing the connectivity of protected areas to ensure the resilience of biodiversity in this globally significant region. These targeted actions and a cohesive transboundary approach are essential for achieving the study’s aims and ensur- ing the effective conservation and sustainability of the Altai Mountains’ unique biodiversity. Supporting information S1 File. (PDF) Author Contributions Conceptualization: Mengqi Yuan, Fang Han. Formal analysis: Mengqi Yuan, Fang Han. Methodology: Mengqi Yuan, Fang Han. Project administration: Fang Han. Software: Mengqi Yuan, Yue Yang. Supervision: Fang Han. Validation: Aleksandr Dunets, Mikhail Shishin, Ordenbek Mazbayev, Bayarkhuu Batbayar. Writing – original draft: Mengqi Yuan.

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Biodiversity hotspot assessment in the Altai Mountains transboundary region PLOS ONE | https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0314075 December 4, 2024 17 / 20