Dear Authors,

I commend your tremendous effort in collecting mammal data from this remarkable region of Papua New Guinea. The knowledge generated by this study will undoubtedly contribute to understanding species distribution patterns in the area.

However, the current sampling design—specifically the data collection methodology—limits the study’s ability to:

Draw robust comparisons with existing research, or

Contrast patterns observed in other regions with sufficient rigor.

While the dataset holds value, these constraints affect the broader applicability of your conclusions.

Minor Concerns
Title Adjustments

The phrase "Mammals prefer mountains" suggests a tested behavioral preference, which is not supported by the study design. A more neutral phrasing (e.g., "Mammalian diversity patterns...") would better align with the data.

"Complete rainforest elevational gradient" could mislead readers, as the study area includes non-rainforest habitats (e.g., [specify if mentioned in methods]). Consider "Broad elevational gradient" or qualifying with "spanning rainforest and [other habitats]."

Figures/Map

A study area map is essential for contextualizing sampling locations, especially given the elevational and habitat variability.

Regression Analysis

The exclusion of the most extreme site in [Figure X] risks artificially strengthening the reported relationship. Transparency about this decision (e.g., in methods or captions) is critical.

Given these limitations, I believe the current manuscript lacks the robust data required to substantiate the proposed distribution pattern. As such, it does not meet the standards of this journal.

I recommend submitting this work to a journal specializing in species inventories by locality/elevation, ideally with accompanying photographs. This format would:

Enhance the study's value by documenting critical baseline data,

Support future conservation efforts in the region through visual records, and

Better align with the methodological scope of such publications.

My sincere congratulations on this work, and I hope you continue your vital research in this globally significant tropical region.

att.