Distribution and habitat association of the Palawan skunk (Mydaus marchei Huet, 1887)

Mydaus marchei was one of the least known species in Palawan, Philippines despite being the sole carnivore with full species status. Little is known about M. marchei, especially on its distribution and ecology as reflected by the limited literature available. This study aimed to evaluate the distribution and habitat association of this species. Specifically, it aimed to creating a species distribution map, determine bioclimatic distribution and potential current distribution using Maxent, and the specific environmental factors associated with the presence, describing the habitat of the M. marchei and assess associated threats. Occurrences were compiled from museum records worldwide, online databases, gray and published literature, scientist records, and limited first-hand surveys following the construction of a distribution map. Species distribution modeling was conducted in maxent using bioclimatic, topographic, and soil data as predictor variables. Correlation and the use of bias files were employed to account for multicollinearity and sampling bias, respectively in modelling, resulting in 18 batch models. The bioclimatic distribution of M. marchei was derived from models which was subsequently used to derive the potential current distribution based on Habitat Suitability Index. An ethnobiological survey on Palawan locals was conducted, documenting potential threats, behavior, and perception toward M. marchei. Despite efforts of sensitivity testing, 18 batch models were produced with values of AUC sub po below 0.8, indicating that maxent is challenged to accurately discern the species occurrence. Across these models, 'distance to roads', sand and isothermality were the most common predictor variables with the highest contributions. Records of M. marchei are dispersed throughout Palawan PAIC, except in areas where it is absent which initially suggests a throughout distribution. However, based on modeling, the species is predicted more to occur in coastal and lowland environments especially in northern portions of Palawan, where it is likely to be sandy (having a proportion of sand particles (0.05 mm) in the fine earth fraction of about 50-350 g/kg). The species may also prefer isothermal areas and may be influenced by temperature -oscillations within a month relative to the year. It is also predicted to occur close to roads and trails. A greater majority of Palawan is predicted to be of average suitability and the least suitable and unsuitable potions were predicted in areas of Mount Mantalingajan Protected Landscape. Road expansion, hunting, climate change, and land conversion are among the threats for the species population. The behavior and perception of Palawan locals on M. marchei are generally positive. This study claims that M. marechei may have restrictions within its ranges despite that it may be a synanthropic species, and that it may have reduced are of occupancy. This necessitates immediate assessment on its scale of area of occupancy, baseline population studies, and the heightening of its conservation status.