Assessing spatial and temporal trends over time in potential species richness using satellite time-series and ecological niche models

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.