Modeling the Potential Hibernation Habitat Distribution of the Endangered Bats Myotis rufoniger and Plecotus ognevi
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study predicted the potential hibernation habitats of two endangered bat species, Myotis rufoniger and Plecotus ognevi, using a Random Forest-based species distribution model (SDM) that integrated occurrence records and environmental variables. The model incorporated climatic (BIO1, BIO12), topographic (DEM), and land cover variables. Both models exhibited statistically significant predictive performance, with P. ognevi (AUC=0.8054, TSS=0.634) showing higher reliability than M. rufoniger (AUC=0.7351, TSS=0.3824). Variable importance analysis indicated that DEM, BIO1, and BIO12 were key predictors for M. rufoniger, while BIO1, DEM, and BIO12 were most influential for P. ognevi, suggesting that climatic and topographic factors predominantly shaped habitat suitability. Predicted suitability maps revealed that M. rufoniger favored lowland agricultural areas, whereas P. ognevi was primarily associated with high-elevation mountainous regions. These findings provide quantitative insights into the environmental requirements of hibernating bats and offer a robust scientific basis for developing conservation and management strategies for endangered species in Korea.
Source: GEO DATA
Authors: Taek-Woo Lee, Chulhyun Choi, Ha-Cheol Sung
Institutions: Chonnam National University, National Institute of Ecology
Language: English
Subfield: Ecological Modeling
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDG: Life on land
Open Access status: diamond
Award: G758634988
OpenAlex ID: W7119018556