Evaluating habitat selection of François’ langur in the karst mountains of China: Implications for conservation strategies

Abstract

The François’ langur is an endangered primate species endemic to Asia, found in the karst mountain regions of China and Vietnam. These langurs are distributed across isolated locations, where habitat loss and fragmentation pose significant threats to their survival. The Mayanghe National Nature Reserve (MNNR) is home to the largest population of wild François' langurs in the world, estimated at 500–600 individuals. To understand the habitat selection of François’ langurs in the MNNR, a survey was conducted from September 2017 to August 2019. Using species presence data and environmental variables, we analyzed habitat selection through a resource selection function (RSF). Significant habitat differences were found between distribution and control sites. The best model included slope, distance to river, distance to road, vegetation type, and tree height. The distribution of François’ langur is primarily influenced by its reliance on specific vegetation types, sensitivity to human disturbance, and geographical factors. This study clarifies the ecological requirements of wild François’ langurs by analyzing their habitat selection and highlights the importance of understanding these factors to inform conservation efforts.