Ecological niche modeling of the main forest-forming species in the Caucasus

Ecological niche modeling of the main forest-forming species within same geographic range contributes significantly to understanding coexistence and regularities formation their current spatial distribution. The abiotic biotic environmental variables, as well dispersal capability, affecting distribution in Caucasus, have not been sufficiently studied. We conducted studies physiographic boundaries including Russian Federation, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan. Our focused on ecological pure fir, spruce, pine, beech, hornbeam, birch forests through concept BAM (Biotic-Abiotic-Movement) diagram. selected 648 records occurrence. ENVIREM SoilGrids databases, statistical tools R, Maxent were used assess influence abiotic, biotic, movement factors species. Geographic expression fundamental niches depended mainly topographic conditions water regime. Competitor reduced potential ranges studied by 1.2–1.7 times realized led differences with similar requirements for conditions. Movement factor limited areas suitable (by 1.2–1.8 compared niches), except forests. Distribution maps, constructed factors, models occupied distributional area Caucasus. Biotic should be considered forest ecosystems if are biological meaning reality.