Work

Niche characterization and distribution of Sikkim Himalayan (Begoniaceae), India: a niche modeling approach

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Understanding species’ ecological niches and distribution patterns is crucial for biodiversity conservation and management, particularly in ecologically sensitive regions. We used an NDVI-based ecological niche modeling (ENM) approach for Begonia species for this purpose, where we achieved high predictive accuracy (AUC: 0.82–0.97). Niche breadth analysis revealed a positive correlation (r = 0.747, p = 0.003) between broader niche breadth and larger predicted distribution areas, aligning with the notion that better-performing models tend to capture either highly specialized (narrow-breadth) or ecologically flexible (broad-breadth) niches. Models for Begonia picta, B. panchtharensis, B. sikkimensis, and B. xanthina were classified as fair (0.8 < AUC < 0.9), and exhibited broader niche breadth, with ranges extending from the western Himalaya to the eastern Himalaya, encompassing Nepal, Bhutan, and China. In contrast, B. satrapis, B. gemmipara, and B. nepalensis showed very good model performance (AUC > 0.95) but had the narrowest niche breadth (0.102–0.195), suggesting specialized habitat requirements and restricted distributions. Given their limited ecological flexibility and smaller suitable areas, these species warrant immediate conservation attention to mitigate extinction risks.

Source: Journal of Threatened Taxa

DOI: 10.11609/jott.9538.17.9.27433-27443

Authors: Aditya Pradhan, Dibyendu Adhikari, Arun Chettri

Institutions: SRM University Sikkim, National Botanical Research Institute, Sikkim University

Language: English

Topic: Species Distribution and Climate Change

Subfield: Ecological Modeling

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Life on land

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $600