Assessing spatial and temporal trends over time in potential species richness using satellite time-series and ecological niche models
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Assessing biodiversity in protected areas is crucial. However, conventional methods for estimating species richness can lead to inaccurate assessments of biodiversity in these regions. To address this, we present a complementary approach to assess potential species richness at a finer resolution (1 km) in the special conservation area of Montesinho/Nogueira (SAC-MN; Portugal), based on a spatial and temporal estimates of species richness trends over time (2001–2021). We compiled 10,190 species occurrence records from four taxonomic groups: amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. We created correlative ecological niche models (MaxEnt) with a time series of satellite-remote sensing variables (SRS-ENMs) using solely Google Earth Engine (GEE). We calculated annual potential species richness (PSR) maps by stacking the SRS-ENMs and identified positive and negative trends with the Mann-Kendall test. Individual species’ SRS-ENMs indicated distinct habitat suitability within SAC-MN over time. The eastern and western boundaries of SAC-MN revealed an increase in PSR, while the central area indicated PSR declines. Each group displayed different trends in PSR: birds and mammals were more similar between them than amphibians and reptiles. This approach serves as a valuable instrument for ecologists and conservationists, assisting in evaluating PSR and trends over time using remote sensing. Furthermore, it provides meaningful insights for subsequent analysis in order to inform decision-makers and other stakeholders to enhance local biodiversity conservation efforts.