THE MODEL OF Ranodon sibiricus ECOLOGICAL NICHE: GIS AND REMOTE SENSING APPROACH

We developed the ecological niche model (ENM) of Ranodon sibiricus in the Dzungarian Alatau Mountains using GIS (Geographic Information System) modeling, and interpretation of orographic and climatic variables. We analyzed the impact of each variable and evaluated the results to discern the most important (key) variables describing the ecological niche. Six orographic and 26 climatic variables were selected as key variables. The analysis of relief and climate contribution to ENM formation reveals a close interrelation between the two factors. The origin of every watercourse, its hydrological parameters, and microhabitat diversity are determined by local microrelief and microclimate. The mean temperature of the warmest quarter, precipitation during the wettest quarter, annual precipitation, and precipitation in the winter months indirectly confirmed the important role of glaciers in maintaining the water balance in streams inhabited by the amphibian. The data acquired allow the new interpretation of the previously proposed idea of introducing the salamander into some regions of Dzungarian Alatau and Northern Tien Shan.