Potential distribution modeling of Amburana cearensis in Madre de Dios, Peru: evidence of habitat restriction in an “Endangered” species

Abstract

Amburana cearensis is a tree species classified as "Endangered" on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List, making it necessary to identify potential areas of spatial distribution of this species within the Amazon. In this context, the present study aimed to model the potential distribution of Amburana cearensis in Madre de Dios, Peru. The species distribution modeling methodology was employed using MaxEnt software. According to the results obtained, the variables of "isothermality," "mean annual temperature," and "soil organic carbon content" were the most important predictors of the species' distribution. Four categories of potential distribution were identified, among which habitats of “very high” and “high” suitability accounted for 18.80% and 15.56% of the species' current distribution. In conclusion, less than 35% of the region’s land area offers optimal conditions for the species; furthermore, it is under pressure from anthropogenic activities such as agriculture and livestock farming, which means that the potential distribution areas of Amburana cearensis are threatened and restricted within the study area.