Based on multiple environmental factors to explore the habitat distribution of licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) in different time and space

Abstract

As a traditional medicinal plant, licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) with high medicinal and economic value and its demand is increasing around the world. In recent decades, the endless human excavation and climate change have reduced the natural habitat of licorice. Identifying the suitable habitat of licorice and climatic factors is crucial to formulating effective protection and management strategies. This study simulated the suitability geographic distribution of licorice in the current period by combining climate and topographic variables and predicted the possible changes in suitable habitats for licorice under different climate warming scenarios (RCP8.5, 6.0, 4.5, 2.6) in the future (2041–2080) based on Maxent and ArcGIS models. The study results showed that annual average temperature, temperature seasonality, annual precipitation and elevation were the primary eco-factors influencing the spatial distribution of licorice. Currently, the high, medium and low suitable areas of licorice are 108.87 × 104 km2, 70.29 × 104 km2 and 122.80 × 104 km2, respectively. These habitat regions were mainly distributed in the northwest, northeast and north of China. The research found that the habitat suitability and habitat range of licorice will increase in the future, while the potentially highly suitable habitat will decrease and the habitat fragmentation will increase with the intensification of global warming. The analysis results can provide a theoretical reference for the formulation of protection strategies and the selection of suitable planting areas for licorice.