Potential Distribution of Rhododendron huadingense by MaxEnt Model

Based on 24 precise and effective distribution coordinates of Rhododendron huadingense and 10 selected environmental variables, the potential distribution and change of R. huadingense in China in the present and future, as well as the main impact environmental variables, were predicted using ArcGIS software and MaxEnt model. It aims to provide scientific references for the resource protection and reintroduction of R. huadingense. The results showed that MaxEnt model could accurately predict potential distribution of R. huadingense in China. The precipitation of the driest season, mean annual temperature and altitude were the main environmental variables affecting the survival and distribution of R. huadingense, with narrow threshold, which highly limit the potential distribution of R. huadingense. At present, the potential distribution of R. huadingense mainly distributed in the specific mountain areas of Zhejiang and Anhui province, with area only 2140.3 km². In the 2050s and 2090s, under future climate change, the potential distribution area of R. huadingense would decrease sharply or even disappear, and the degree of endangerment and extinction risk would significantly increase.