Ecological assessment and identification strategy of key conservation areas: A case study of the south Taihang Mountains region

The aim of this study was to foster the harmonious advancement of economic development and ecological preservation as well as address concerns regarding the inadequate protection of flagship species, insufficient coverage of protected areas, and anthropogenic influences in the evaluation and establishment of nature reserves. Using the southern Taihang Mountain region as a case, parameters such as habitat prediction, ecosystem services, landscape diversity, and human disturbances were comprehensively evaluated. Data from multiple sources were integrated to identify and demarcate key conservation areas as well as priority conservation areas and potential conservation zones. Our findings revealed the necessity for enhancing ecological service capacity in the southern Taihang Mountain region and highlighted an unequal distribution of animal habitats. Consequently, we propose that efforts should be concentrated on the preservation of flagship species and the creation of key conservation areas that surpass administrative borders. Based on the assessment results, it is advisable to implement conservation strategies tailored for different geomorphic environments within the key conservation areas, accompanied by relevant functional zoning. In this study, we introduce a systematic approach for assessing and designating pivotal conservation zones. Additionally, this study achieves large-scale habitat distribution predictions through minor terrestrial surveys, making it applicable to regions with pronounced anthropogenic disturbance as well as high-elevation mountainous areas. This approach enables enhanced connectivity of nature reserves and facilitates coordinated ecological conservation both within and beyond reserve boundaries, leading to an improved natural environment for humans and the creation of liberated, suitable habitats for protected animals.