Gap analysis of Firmiana danxiaensis, a rare tree species endemic to southern China

A gap analysis reveals that over 78% of the potential habitat for Firmiana danxiaensis, a rare tree species endemic to southern China's Mount Danxia, lacks conservation protection. Using Biomod2 and Maxent models, researchers estimated its habitat at 6,255.28 km² and 4,114.19 km² respectively, with key climatic preferences including high temperature seasonality (6000–7000) and warmest-month maxima of 36–37°C. Alarming anthropogenic disturbances affect over 40% of its habitat, particularly in unprotected areas like Yingde and Shixing. The study urges adjustments to existing reserves and expansion of protected zones to safeguard this vulnerable species.

LI, R., HU, X., LI, Q., LIU, L., HE, Y., & CHEN, C. (2024). Gap analysis of Firmiana danxiaensis, a rare tree species endemic to southern China. Ecological Indicators, 158, 111606. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolind.2024.111606