Divergence in the ecological niches of the white wagtail (Motacilla alba Linnaeus, 1758) complex using the ecological niche modeling approach

Abstract

The mtDNA data presently being used for estimating biodiversity is not sufficient for evaluating the Motacilla alba complex species status. Because there is a lack of congruence between morphological and mtDNA data, there are debates about the best approach to use. In this study, we utilize niche modelling to study nine taxa of M. alba complex. Using eight bioclimatic- environmental layers, altitude, and slope MaxEnt modeling was applied to predict distributions. A total of 9087 input points for presence of species were also used. Results showed nine distinct ecological boundaries based on MaxEnt and ecological niche modeling (ENM) tools. The results provide some ecological variables for determining the ecological requirements and distribution patterns of the white wagtail species complex in the Palearctic region.