Analysis of a Potentially Suitable Habitat for Solanum aculeatissimum in Southwest China Under Climate Change Scenarios

<i>Solanum aculeatissimum</i> is a herbaceous to semi-woody perennial plant native to the Brazilian ecosystem. It has naturalized extensively in southwestern China, posing significant threats to local biodiversity. This study systematically screened and integrated 100 distribution records from authoritative databases, including the Chinese Virtual Plant Specimen Database, the Global Biodiversity Information Facility, and Chinese Natural Museums. Additionally, 23 environmental variables were incorporated, comprising 19 bioclimatic factors from the World Climate Dataset, 3 topographic indicators, and the Human Footprint Index. The objectives of this research are as follows: (1) to simulate the plant's current and future distribution (2050s/2070s) under CMIP6 scenarios (SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, and SSP5-8.5); (2) to quantify changes in the distribution range; and (3) to determine the migration trajectory using MaxEnt 3.4.4 software. The findings reveal that human pressure (contributing 79.7%) and isothermality (bioclimatic factor 3: 10.1%) are the primary driving forces shaping its distribution. The core suitable habitats are predominantly concentrated in the provinces of Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan. By 2070, the distribution center shifts northeastward to Qujing City. Under the SSP5-8.5 scenario, the invasion front extends into southern Tibet, while retreat occurs in the lowlands of Honghe Prefecture. This study underscores the synergistic effects of socioeconomic development pathways and bioclimatic thresholds on invasive species' biogeographical patterns, providing a robust predictive framework for adaptive management strategies.