Analyzing habitat characteristics and predicting present and future suitable habitats of Sibynophis chinensis based on a climate change scenario

Abstract

Knowing the distribution range and habitat characteristics of a species is an essential part of establishing an effective conservation strategy for that species. In this study, we analyzed the habitat characteristics of the endangered Sibynophis chinensis, found only in Jeju Island in South Korea, and predicted its present and future suitable habitats through showing potential distribution areas. Our results showed that S. chinensis was mainly observed on farm lands and in pine forests. Moreover, the habitat environment was more diverse than previously known. The distribution of S. chinensis was highly related with the precipitation of the wettest period. In the future, the suitable habitat of the snake will decrease in the western and central parts (highlands) of the island, whereas it will increase in the eastern part of the island. Climate change in part gives a chance for the species to expand its distribution range. Overlap between the distribution area of S. chinensis and the human activity area is identified as a potential threat that may lead to the decline of the species. These results could increase our understanding on the basic ecology of this species, which provides an important basis for the effective protection of this endangered species in Korea.