Momoge Internationally Important Wetland: Ecosystem Integrity Remote Assessment and Spatial Pattern Optimization Study

Abstract

Along the migration route between East Asia and Australia, numerous migratory birds use the Momoge Internationally Important Wetland as a habitat. Human activities and climate variability cause salinization and meadowization. We developed the “Quality-Pressure-Pattern-Service” remote assessment framework for ecosystem integrity, using a three level approach (TLA). The model was used to assess ecosystem integrity, identify improper wetland development, and provide spatial optimization strategies. The research region was dominated by wetlands, followed by dry fields. Wetlands continued to decrease between 1965 and 2019, as arable land and construction land continued to increase. Over the course of 54 years, ecosystem integrity declined. In 2019, around half of the areas had poor or extremely poor ecosystem integrity. Because the eastern study area contained many pristine inland beaches, the eastern study area displayed greater ecosystem integrity than the central and western areas. Priority should therefore be given to wetland restoration in the HJ core area (one of the three core areas of the reserve), where most of the herb marsh has been converted to arable land. This study revealed the integrity and authenticity of wetland ecosystems. Our results can aid in the protection of wetland habitats, encourage sustainable development, and help in the building of a national park in northeastern China.