Based on these findings, the research team formally proposed that central China be designated as the world's 37th global biodiversity hotspot. If recognized, it would become China's fifth such hotspot, joining regions such as the mountains of southwest China and the Himalayas.

　　"We hope that this designation will help strengthen conservation efforts, guide future protected area planning, and draw more international support to protect the region's unique and threatened natural heritage," said Lu Limin, a professor from the IBCAS.