Mapping potential habitats for the management of exportable insects in South Korea

Understanding the spatial distribution for the management of exportable insects is important for conserving and enhancing biodiversity. This study predicted the spatial distributions of 24 species with statistical significance by means of Maxent species distribution modeling, using data of the 54 insect species. Based on simulation results using these 24 species, topographic and climatic factors affecting the species distribution were identified. Distance from shore line, aspect, and topographic position index were identified as the main topographic variables, and the winter minimum and summer maximum temperatures were found to be the main climatic variables. Among the land cover variables, the percent agricultural area was found to be most important. The findings of this study, which identify the spatial distributions of the insects and determine the impacts of environmental factors on these spatial distributions, are expected to provide useful data for survey site selection when establishing monitoring plans.