Potential planting regions of Pterocarpus santalinus under current and
future climate in China based on MaxEnt model
Abstract
Abstract: This study explores the habitat distribution of Pterocarpus
santalinus, a valuable rosewood species, across China, focusing on its
response to current and future climate changes. Utilizing the MaxEnt
model, we assess its suitable habitat under present conditions and
future climate scenarios (SSPs126, SSPs245, and SSPs585). Our findings
reveal that the current suitable habitat, spanning approximately 409,600
km², is primarily located in the central and southern parts of
Guangdong, Guangxi, Fujian, Yunnan, as well as in the Hainan provinces,
along with the coastal regions of Taiwan, and the Sichuan-Chongqing
border. The habitat’s distribution is significantly influenced by
climatic factors such as temperature seasonality (bio4), mean
temperature of the wettest quarter (bio8), annual mean temperature
(bio1), and annual precipitation (bio12), while terrain and soil factors
play a lesser role. Under future climate scenarios, the suitable habitat
for P. santalinus is projected to expand, with a northeastward shift in
its distribution center. This research not only sheds light on the
geoecological characteristics and geographical distribution of P.
santalinus in China but also offers a scientific basis for planning its
cultivation areas and enhancing cultivation efficiency under changing
climate conditions.