An integrated approach to identifying ecological sources and constructing ecological security patterns in a rapidly urbanizing region: A case study of Suizhou, China

Abstract

Abstract Context：Over the past decade, China's unprecedented rapid urbanization has brought huge challenges to the stability of regional ecosystems. Objectives：Hubei Province, positioned as the central region's focal point, holds a strategically important role. Taking Suizhou in Hubei as a case study, we propose a framework for defining ecological security pattern (Esp) within rapidly urbanizing cities to safeguard and rehabilitate mountains, rivers, farmlands, lakes, and grasslands. Methods：A pivotal objective of this framework is to optimize the selection of ecological sources. We employ the Ordered Weighted Averaging (OWA) approach to pinpoint areas of high ecological service significance, amalgamating ecological sensitivity and landscape connectivity for source identification. Results：Approximately 28.7% of Suizhou's territory is enveloped by 15 contiguous and intact ecological sources. Subsequently, using circuit theory, we extract ecological corridors covering 416.08 km2 and stretching 211.43 km. Conclusions: Due to substantial urban development and construction in central Suizhou, the ecological spaces on its northern and southern flanks are significantly disconnected. Merely two traverse the central urban development zone, establishing a connection between the north and south. Furthermore, numerous ecological bottlenecks are present within these two corridors. Consequently, we propose advancing green infrastructure within urban central areas and augmenting the ecological sensitivity and resilience of natural zones adjacent to developed regions. Furthermore, a focal point should be placed on improving the ecological bottleneck areas within the ecological corridors to enhance species connectivity. The research's applicability can be extended to other rapidly urbanizing areas along the Yangtze River.