Designing the core zone in a biosphere reserve based on suitable habitats: Yancheng Biosphere Reserve and the red crowned crane (Grus japonensis) Original Research Article

Although much research has been undertaken to design nature reserves, there are few practical methods to determine the interior structure of a reserve. A procedure for design of the core zone in reserves is proposed. As a case study, the core zone in Yancheng Biosphere Reserve, Peopleʹs Republic of China, which was established to preserve the endangered red crowned crane (Grus japonensis) is designed. A statistical habitat model using geographic information system (GIS) is developed to predict crane presence or absence. Based on predicted suitable habitats, the minimum core zone is defined. More suitable habitats can be contained in the designated core zone, and this will be beneficial to the conservation and restoration for crane habitats.