Potential distributions of seven sympatric sclerophyllous oak species in Southwest China depend on climatic, non-climatic, and independent spatial drivers

An ensemble modelling approach was performed to predict the distributions of seven sympatric sclerophyllous oak species in Hengduan Mountains Southwest China. Spatial eigenvector filters revealed missing factors addition commonly used environmental variables, thus effectively improved predictive accuracy for montane species. This study identified a richness center oaks, which provides reference proper conservation and utilization resources. As key important trees construction- fuel-wood, oaks (Quercus sect. Heterobalanus) China are threatened by climate change, habitat fragmentation, human activities. aims simulate potential with an emphasis on exploring relative importance climatic, non-climatic, additional spatial factors. We six ecological niche models combination The results elucidated that temperature seasonality, followed land use/cover influence index were most critical variables controlling distributions. Regardless selected algorithm, best performing combined climatic non-climatic as well filters. It is necessary strengthen at junction Sichuan Yunnan Province where we found studied oaks. Our research essential insights rational management species, suggesting constraints might reflect limited ability migration under future change.