Construction and Optimization of Habitat Ecological Network of the White‐Headed Langur ( <i>Trachypithecus leucocephalus</i> ) Under Landscape Dynamics

Regional ecological networks are crucial for biodiversity conservation. Accurate identification of ecological sources and optimization of corridors can significantly enhance habitat connectivity, maintain key ecological functions such as pollination, seed dispersal, and nutrient cycling, and mitigate the impacts of habitat fragmentation on species survival. The white-headed langur (Trachypithecus leucocephalus), a critically endangered primate inhabiting the karst hills of Guangxi, China, has experienced severe habitat shrinkage despite a notable population increase, highlighting the urgent need to strengthen habitat connectivity. This study integrated landscape dynamics to construct and optimize the habitat ecological network, thereby supporting langur outward migration and habitat preservation. The results were as follows: (1) In 2000, 2010, and 2020, the habitat sources of white-headed langurs decreased each decade. The core ecological source areas were consistent with the actual ranging areas of langurs, mainly distributed in Shangjin, Tuolong, Tingliang, Banli, Luobai, and Bapen Townships, and near Dongluo, Qujiu, and Quli Townships. (2) A total of 53 ecological corridors were identified, connecting all ecological source areas to form a network loop. (3) Ten key short-distance corridors were identified to link the core ecological source areas, with 51 ecological nodes and 11 ecological barriers between long- and medium-distance corridors. It is recommended to prioritize the protection of core ecological source areas for the white-headed langur's survival, establish and safeguard short-distance corridors connecting interior and adjacent large core ecological sources, and address long- and medium-distance corridors by reducing disturbance nodes, improving obstruction nodes, adding landscape stepping-stone patches, and protecting dispersed nodes.