Assessment and modeling of habitat quality in Isfahan province with an ecosystem services approach using InVest

Isfahan Province, with its diverse range of mountainous, forest, steppe, and desert habitats, as well as the presence of key species with conservation value, is considered one of the Iran's important biodiversity hotspots, which is increasingly affected by land use changes and human development. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate and model habitat quality as an indicator of biodiversity in Isfahan province using an ecosystem services approach. In this study, the habitat quality module of the InVEST model was used in combination with Geographic Information System (GIS) data and the 1403 land use map. The most important factors threatening habitat quality were considered to include agricultural uses, urban settlements, main and secondary roads, and industrial uses. Also, the sensitivity of habitat types to various threats and the level of access to threat sources were considered in the modeling process. The results of the study showed that habitat quality at the provincial level has a heterogeneous spatial pattern, such that the highest values of habitat quality are mainly concentrated in areas under Protection and areas with continuous natural cover. In contrast, areas located near urban centers, communication networks, and extensive agricultural lands have lower habitat quality. Analysis of the supply of the ecosystem service of habitat quality in different land use classes indicates that natural lands, especially pastures and mountainous habitats, have the largest share in the provision of this service. The results of the hot spot analysis also showed that some of the important biodiversity hotspots are located outside the boundaries of protected areas. Overall, the findings of this study emphasize the need to review land use planning, strengthen the network of protected areas, and direct urban development toward areas with less environmental sensitivity. The results can be used as a scientific basis for management decisions, land planning, and sustainable conservation of biodiversity in Isfahan Province.