Hotspot and distribution pattern of estimated population of Markhor in Pakistan

Abstract

Pakistan host exceptional biodiversity and remarkable diversity of mammals with over 190 species. Markhor is recognized as wild goat and categorized under the order Artiodactyla, a family of Bovidae. Anyhow, It holds the status of Flagship specie as the National Mammal of Pakistan. Moreover, it is also declared as a threatened species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Hence, the aim of the study is estimate the population distribution with identification of hotspot areas for the existence of this species within distribution range in the country. The population of this specie was estimated through the line transects or strip census method. It is estimated that 2024 individuals are found in Gilgit Baltistan with population density of 0.875 per Km². 214.65 individuals with population density of 1.1 animals per Km² are found in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The highest population is estimated in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK). It is 6343.2 animals with population density of 2.4 animals per Km². Meanwhile, 3922.5 heads are estimated in Baluchistan n with population density of 0.75 animals per Km². Furthermore, hotspot analysis in GIS identified the areas of both high and low occurrence for the under investigation specie within the distribution range in Pakistan. Systematically collected geographical distribution data set and analysis revealed that Chitral in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is highly populated with flared horned markhor and Torgarh and Suleiman range is highly populated with strait horned Markhor. These are the hotspot areas for this magnificent wild species. However, the anthropogenic pressure like human wildlife conflict and competition for resources contribute to the complex challenges faced by this specie in this country. The cumulative impacts of these factors underscore the urgent need for comprehensive conservation efforts to safeguard the threatened specie in Pakistan.