Table of Content

10 April 2026, Volume 45 Issue 4

Previous Issue    Next Issue

Spatiotemporal evolution and driving mechanisms of ecological infrastructure network connectivity and conservation strategies during urbanization: A case study of the Shandong Peninsula urban agglomeration.

FAN Yizhou, FANG Dali, XU Hongtao, QIU Guoqiang, WANG Xuewei, WANG Jing

2026, 45(4):  1057-1068.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.007

Asbtract ( 155 )   PDF (7646KB) ( 139 )  

Ecological infrastructure networks provide a fundamental basis for natural ecosystems in support of urban sustainable development. These networks help maintain landscape connectivity and habitat continuity, as well as facilitate material and energy flows. Systematic analysis of changes in the connectivity of ecological infrastructure networks and the driving mechanisms holds significant theoretical and practical insights for achieving the integrated ecosystem preservation at the regional scale. Taking Shandong Peninsula urban agglomeration as a case area, we developed ecological infrastructure networks and identified key areas for conservation and restoration. We proposed a comprehensive connectivity metric by integrating the Integral Index of Connectivity (IIC) and the Omniscape algorithm, to quantify the connectivity of ecological infrastructure networks. Changes in spatial patterns of connectivity in 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2020 as well as the interaction mechanisms of factors influencing these changes were explored. A strategy for constructing the spatial pattern of ecosystem conservation was subsequently proposed. The results showed that the ecological infrastructure networks exhibited a spatial distribution pattern of “concentrated in the east, middle and coastal areas, and sparse in the west”. Changes in the ecological corridor layout were influenced by changes in spatial patterns of ecological source areas and resistance surfaces. The total area of ecological sources decreased by 33.5 km² and 28 new ecological corridors were added during the study period. The comprehensive connectivity increased by 0.7%, mainly concentrated in water bodies and wetlands such as Bohai Bay, west of the Yellow River Delta, south of Laizhou Bay, and the Nansi Lake region. The interaction of hydro-climatic factors (precipitation, temperature, and natural runoff) exerted a significant influence on the spatiotemporal variations in the connectivity of ecological infrastructure networks. Based on these findings, we constructed a spatial pattern of “two shields, three belts, multiple sources and corridors” for the ecological conservation, which provide a theoretical framework and practical reference for the integrated conservation and restoration of regional ecosystems.



Contribution of glomalin-related soil protein in urban greenspace to soil organic carbon storage and its influencing factors during urbanization.

ZOU Qingxian, ZHANG Foyi, ZHONG Jialin, LIAO Guijun, LIU Wei, WANG Qiong

2026, 45(4):  1069-1079.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.003

Asbtract ( 105 )   PDF (1566KB) ( 74 )  

Glomalin-related soil protein (GRSP) secreted by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi is an important component of soil organic carbon (SOC) and one of the important indicators of changes in soil carbon sequestration. The ability of GRSP to enhance soil carbon sequestration and its influencing mechanisms during rapid urbanization remains unclear. We selected 184 greenspace plots from the built-up area in Nanchang (505 km²) and categorized urbanization intensity based on the proportion of impervious surface area to total area. We then analyzed the effects of urbanization intensity on the contents of SOC, GRSP, and purified GRSP-containing carbon (GRSP-C), as well as their correlations with soil physicochemical properties, vegetation characteristics, and landscape patterns. The results showed that GRSP and GRSP-C contents were significantly higher in lowly urbanized areas than in highly urbanized areas by 19.35% and 13.21%, respectively (P<0.05). From lowly to highly urbanized areas, SOC content decreased from 18.64 mg·g^-1 to 15.02 mg·g^-1, accompanied by a decline in the contribution rate of GRSP-C to SOC from 3.89% to 2.04%, indicating that urbanization significantly weakened the roles of GRSP and GRSP-C in SOC sequestration. The redundancy analysis revealed that soil pH, soil total potassium, tree canopy size, and the total boundary length of greenspace patches were the main factors affecting the changes in the GRSP-related carbon sequestration during urbanization. A high soil total potassium content was not conducive to the accumulation of GRSP and GRSP-C. Soil pH was negatively correlated with the GRSP/SOC ratio and the contribution rate of the GRSP-C content to SOC, while larger tree canopy sizes and total boundary length increased the contribution rate of GRSP to SOC. By systematically investigating the role of GRSP in SOC sequestration, this study confirms that GRSP is a relatively novel pathway for contributing to soil carbon neutrality in urban greenspaces, even though its role could be influenced by urbanization.



The relationship between urbanization and spatiotemporal variations in ecosystem services in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei urban agglomeration.

ZHANG Wei, LI Jingyu, YANG Jie, LU Jingzhao

2026, 45(4):  1080-1089.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.005

Asbtract ( 107 )   PDF (5410KB) ( 58 )  




Urbanization significantly alters land use and land cover, with consequence on ecosystem services. While previous studies have predominantly focused on individual cities or small-scale regions, the spatial interactions between urbanization and ecosystem services in urban agglomerations remains less understood. We used spatial autoregressive models to assess the spatial interaction between urbanization and ecosystem services in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH) urban agglomeration from 2000 to 2020. We found that urbanization indicators in the BTH region, including urban proportion, population density, and GDP density, exhibited an upward trend. They shared the similar spatial distribution patterns. Different ecosystem services showed differentiated variations. Food supply increased significantly across the urban agglomeration, while carbon storage and habitat quality declined in most areas, except for the ecological conservation zone in the northwest. Carbon storage and habitat quality were negatively correlated with the comprehensive urbanization index. Urban land expansion was directly associated with the degradation of ecosystem services, while population and economic growth exerted indirect influences. This study provides valuable insights for promoting sustainable and coordinated development, as well as high-quality spatial development in the BTH region.


Spatiotemporal differentiation of forest carbon benefits in Wuhan metropolitan area.

CHEN Beiling, LIU Huayan, TIAN Huiling, GUO Xueyuan, ZHOU Mingzhu, ZHU Jianhua, XIAO Wenfa

2026, 45(4):  1090-1102.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.004

Asbtract ( 88 )   PDF (6292KB) ( 54 )  

In the context of global carbon neutrality, quantifying the carbon gains of ecological engineering and the carbon losses from urbanization is crucial for optimizing carbon sink strategies and achieving sustainable development. With the Wuhan metropolitan area as a representative urbanized region in China, we explored how ecological restoration projects and urbanization processes shape regional forest spatial patterns and quality, and consequently affect forest carbon sink function and its spatial-temporal patterns. Remote sensing, field plot data, and machine learning were integrated to construct a forest carbon stock model to examine the spatiotemporal differentiation patterns of forest carbon benefits from 2004 to 2023. The results showed that: (1) The average forest carbon density in the study area increased from 20.67±0.99 Mg C·hm^-2 to 27.43±1.17 Mg C·hm^-2, and the total carbon stock increased from 33.22±1.59 Tg C to 46.28±1.97 Tg C, showing an initial rapid and then stable increasing trend. (2) Carbon sink gain zones (accounting for 60.26% of the area, carbon gain contribution rate of 129.58%) and carbon source loss zones (16.11% of the area, contributing 30.91% to carbon loss) coexisted, while the carbon balance areas (23.63%) reflected a dynamic equilibrium between human disturbance and forest succession, with a minimal carbon gain contribution rate of 1.33%. (3) Afforestation areas (10.17%) and conserved forest areas (75.35%) were the major forest management types, dominating the growing carbon sink. Their carbon gain contribution rates were 34.97% and 77.94% respectively, demonstrating the significant carbon benefits of ecological restoration projects. In contrast, due to urbanization, the cutting and regeneration areas (8.45%) showed a polarized trend of significant increase and decrease in carbon density, with a carbon gain contribution rate of 3.78%, while forest conversion areas (6.03%) revealed the ecological costs of urbanization, contributing a carbon loss rate of 16.69%. By elucidating the antagonistic effects between ecological restoration projects and urbanization stress on forest carbon benefits, this study provides a methodological framework and decision-making support for regional carbon sink assessments and spatial optimization.





Spatiotemporal variations and driving mechanism of ecological risk in Chongqing urban-rural integration development pilot area.

LI Yuanyuan, YIN Ke, XIAO Yi, DING Chenhao

2026, 45(4):  1103-1114.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202603.017

Asbtract ( 94 )   PDF (2308KB) ( 48 )  

The urban-rural integration pilot area is characterized by complex resource and element flows, as well as dynamic landscape transformations. Scientifically assessing the evolution of ecological risk and influencing factors is crucial for optimizing urban-rural land resource management and facilitating regional ecological restoration. In this study, we employed an improved landscape ecological risk assessment model and the Spatial Durbin Model to analyze the evolution of ecological risk in Chongqing urban-rural integration pilot area from 2002 to 2022. We identified the driving factors and spatial effects of ecological risk at different stages and within high-risk clusters. The results showed that landscape changes were relatively moderate during the initial exploration period of urban-rural integration (2002-2012). Significant changes occurred during the reform deepening period (2012-2017) and intensive advancement period (2017-2022), with comprehensive landscape dynamics reaching 1.08% and 1.00%, respectively. Throughout the study period, the regional ecological risk initially increased and then decreased, peaking at a high-risk level during the reform deepening period. Spatially, ecological risk followed a pattern of lower in the northwest and higher in the southeast. The towns adjacent to Chongqing central urban area showed high volatility in risk levels. Ecological risk in the pilot area demonstrated positive spatial clustering, with significant inter-town interactions in ecological risk. The spatial effects of natural and human factors on regional ecological risks varied by stages. Human activity intensity on the land surface consistently emerged as the leading positive factor, the cultivated land area was a significant negative factor, and the maximum temperature (Max_tem) and GDP gradually became important stressors. The spatial effects of human activity intensity on the land surface, along with the spillover effects of Max_tem and habitat quality, were the primary drivers of high ecological risk clustering in towns within the pilot area. Therefore, future strategies should emphasize collaborative ecological risk governance across regions to promote the coordinated development of urban-rural human activities and resource management. This approach is crucial for establishing a stable and sustainable regional ecological security pattern.





Evolution of landscape pattern and its impact on water retention function in Huaihua City, 1985-2020.

QI Mengru, TANG Yuanyuan, LV Yufeng, LONG Sijia, KONG Weiwei, NIE Pingjing, MIN Yingzi, DAI Liangliang

2026, 45(4):  1115-1124.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.001

Asbtract ( 87 )   PDF (3464KB) ( 36 )  

Investigating landscape pattern influences on water retention functions is critical for constructing regional ecological security. We analyzed the spatiotemporal variations of water retention in Huaihua City from 1985 to 2020 using the InVEST model. The evolution of landscape patterns was assessed with selected indices, and the relationship between water retention and landscape patterns was explored via the Geodetector method. The results showed that the multi-year average water retention depth in Huaihua City was 78.52 mm, with a total water retention volume of 2.166 billion m³, demonstrating a pattern of initial increase, subsequent decline, and gradual recovery. At the landscape level, temporal changes in indices indicated increased concentration, enhanced connectivity, and reduced fragmentation. At the class level, indices exhibited the characteristics of “stable forest land, decreased cropland, and urban expansion”. Geodetector analysis demonstrated that the Shannon Diversity Index (SHDI) had the highest explanatory power (q=0.2344), followed by the Landscape Shape Index (LSI, q=0.2109) and the Largest Patch Index (LPI, q=0.2021), indicating that greater landscape diversity, larger patches, and reduced fragmentation enhance water retention capacity. Interaction detection revealed that the strongest synergistic effect between the Patch Cohesion (COHESION) and SHDI (q=0.4398), followed by COHESION and the Contagion Index (CONTAG, q=0.4218), indicating that higher landscape heterogeneity and patch aggregation amplify the spatial variation of water retention. Our results provide effective technical support for the construction of landscape patterns, economic development, and the maintenance of regional ecological security in Huaihua City.





Multi-scale evaluation of the effectiveness of ecological protection and restoration based on “region-unit-site”: A case study of Jiangmen City.

WU Yixuan, HE Shuyi, WANG Jingshi, GONG Weixia

2026, 45(4):  1125-1133.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.002

Asbtract ( 120 )   PDF (4098KB) ( 28 )  

Evaluating the effectiveness of ecological protection and restoration is essential for optimizing management strategies and achieving sustainable outcomes. We developed a multiscale assessment framework of “regionunit-site” with corresponding indicators. The assessment at the region scale focuses on the changes in ecosystem structure and patterns, that at the unit scale pays attention to the changes in ecological disturbance and the completion of performance goals, and that at the site scale focuses on the changes in ecosystem quality and services. Following this framework, we quantitatively evaluated the comprehensive effectiveness of ecological protection and restoration in Jiangmen City, Guangdong Province during 2013-2018 (phase 1) and 2018-2023 (phase 2). The results showed that both phases exhibited ecological land loss (>4%) and connectivity index reduction (>10%) at the region scale, indicating the deterioration of ecosystem structure and pattern. At the unit scale, although some improvement had been achieved in solving ecological problems, the development  intensities of the three restoration units-soil conservation, water quality improvement, and coastal protection-had not been effectively controlled in both stages. At the site scale, while most areas showed enhanced ecosystem quality in both phases, the proportion of areas with excellent and good performance of ecosystem services was less than 25%. There were notable degradation of ecosystem services in the middle and lower reaches of the Tanjiang River and along the coast of the Xijiang River. In general, most areas had experienced significant improvement in ecological protection and restoration effectiveness from phase 1 to 2. The proportion of excellent-effectiveness regions increased from 2.27% to 12.83%, mainly distributed in central-south and northern regions. The proportion of low-effectiveness regions decreased from 52.17% to 26.57%, primarily in coastal zone, the middle and lower reaches of the Tanjiang river and the Xijiang river, and western mountains. These findings underscore the necessity to prioritize ecological land conservation and enhance coastal/riverine ecosystem services in Jiangmen. The proposed multi-scale assessment framework effectively identifies spatial heterogeneity in ecological protection and restoration outcomes as well as the problems, demonstrating the potential for broader application in ecosystem management.





Spatial patterns of urban nighttime lights in Shenzhen using SDGSAT-1 imagery.

HE Zhenxiao, TAN Zhongqi, SHENG Hanlan, DUAN Meiling, ZHANG Zhiming, JING Chuanbao

2026, 45(4):  1134-1142.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.008

Asbtract ( 141 )   PDF (3724KB) ( 49 )  

Artificial light is a key element of the urban nocturnal landscape. Despite its role in enabling diverse nocturnal human activities, artificial light is drawing growing concern for its adverse impacts on human health and ecosystems-a problem known as urban light pollution. Taking the megacity of Shenzhen as an example, we investigated the nighttime-light pattern based on high spatial resolution SDGSAT-1 GLI glimmer imagery. We found that light brightness in Shenzhen was dominated by low values, with the values of red band being significantly higher than those of other spectral bands. There was high spatial heterogeneity in the distribution of light brightness across all bands. The brightness and spectral composition of nighttime light diverged markedly across functional zones. Commercial areas exhibited the highest average brightness, whereas the residential areas showed moderate average brightness. Blue band showed the most pronounced differences in light brightness across functional zones (with a relative range difference of 26.76%). The light brightness proportion of blue band in commercial areas and green spaces was the highest, while a medium proportion was found in the residential areas, and the lowest proportion was found in the transportation areas and municipal areas. Light brightness decreased along the urban-rural gradient. The average brightness across different bands in urban centers was 1.4 times that of the suburbs and 8.5 times that of rural areas. The commercial areas exhibited the greatest urban-rural disparity, reaching a six-fold difference. Our results indicate that the commercial areas in urban center, the widely distributed residential areas, and green spaces are priority regions for light pollution control. We propose specific lighting management strategies, providing scientific support for alleviating urban light pollution.





The damages caused by high temperature stress to urban landscape plants and the prospects for countermeasures.

HE Tingting, MA Pengyu, CHEN Xiaomin, ZHAO Hanchen, YU Chao

2026, 45(4):  1143-1150.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.006

Asbtract ( 147 )   PDF (898KB) ( 43 )  

Under global climate change, the frequent occurrence of extreme heat events poses a serious threat to the growth and ecological functions of urban landscape plants. We systematically outline the multi-dimensional damages caused by heat stress and the adaptive responses in these plants. Regarding the damages, we summarize the species, season, and environment-dependent high-temperature tolerance ranges of plants, and analyze physiological manifestations including damages to the photosynthetic system, respiratory metabolic imbalances, and exacerbated water transpiration fluctuations. In terms of response mechanisms, we emphasize the synergistic roles of osmotic regulation, heat shock proteins, and volatile organic compounds in mitigating heat stress. To address current challenges such as insufficient multi-factor synergistic evaluation, lagging application of modern biotechnology, and the imbalance between ecology and public health, we propose the establishment of intelligent monitoring and early warning systems, the development of high-throughput sequencing and gene editing technologies, and the coordinated optimization of ecological engineering and microclimate regulation. These interdisciplinary strategies are crucial for enhancing the climate resilience of urban ecosystems and can provide a theoretical basis and practical solutions for alleviating heat stress and ensuring urban ecological security.



Species composition and diversity of tropical natural forests in Jianfengling, Hainan based on 106 kilometer-grid plots.

LU Chunyang, LI Yanpeng, CHEN Jie, QIN Wenhao, QIN Hao, ZHAO Jingyan, XUE Miaoya, LI Yide, LIN Mingxian1, XU Han

2026, 45(4):  1151-1159.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.019

Asbtract ( 111 )   PDF (1163KB) ( 50 )  

Clarifying species composition and diversity is conducive to understanding the basic situation of the tropical natural forests in Jianfengling, which will provide data support for biodiversity conservation, the construction of tropical rainforest national parks, and subsequent research. We investigated woody plants with diameter at breast height (DBH) ≥1.0 cm in 106 kilometer-grid plots of tropical natural forest in Jianfengling, with reference to the Chinese forest inventory grid method and plot survey method. The species composition, species-area relationship, diameter-class structure, and relevant affecting factors were analyzed. The results showed that there were a total of 33170 woody plants in the plots, belonging to 71 families, 296 genera, and 345 species, including 74 rare species and 131 common species. There were 19 species with an importance value ≥1, and the cumulative importance value was 29.7. The average DBH in the plots was 5.88 cm, and the diameter-class structure showed an inverted "J" shape. The Shannon index was significantly positively correlated with species richness, Simpson index, and Pielou index, while the Simpson index was significantly positively correlated with the Pielou index. A total of 15 species of China’s national key protected wild plants were recorded, with a national first-level key protected wild plant (Hopea hainanensis) and 14 species such as Vatica mangachapoi being national second-level key protected wild plants. In conclusion, the plots were rich in plant species, with no obvious dominant species, and had good overall regeneration ability. The individual quantity and regeneration ability of national key protected wild plants were good, and some common species can be introduced and planted in areas with similar habitats.





Effects of thinning intensity on understory plant diversity and community stability and the driving factors.

CHEN Wenju, LIU Lanxin, WANG Dexiang, ZHANG Jiangtao

2026, 45(4):  1160-1171.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.023

Asbtract ( 112 )   PDF (2378KB) ( 58 )  

Thinning plays a vital role in maintaining plant diversity and community stability. However, the long-term effects of thinning on plant communities remain unclear. Exploring the differences in plant diversity and community stability as well as their temporal variations under different thinning intensities can provide theoretical references for determining appropriate thinning intensities for forests. We established a thinning experiment in a secondary forest of Huoditang in the Qinling Mountains in 2013, with four thinning intensities (CK: 0%, T₁: 15%, T₂: 30%, T₃: 45%, and T₄: 60%). We analyzed the differences in plant diversity and community stability, their relationships, and the influencing factors under different thinning intensities using significance analysis, regression and partial least squares path modeling (PLSPM), based on data from sampling in 2013 (no thinning), 2017 (4 years after thinning), and 2021 (8 years after thinning). The results showed that the diversity indices of plants (shrubs and herbs) under all thinning intensities peaked in 4 years after thinning and then declined, except for the Pielou evenness index. Four years after thinning, the diversity indices of shrub and herb communities followed the order of T₄>T₁>T₂>T₃>CK and T₁>T₄>T₂>T₃>CK, respectively. The increases of Patrick richness, Simpson and Shannon diversity indices in the herb layer of T₁ and T₄ were significantly higher by 88.0%, 54.7%, 73.8%, and 100.0%, 187.0%, 121.2% compared with CK, respectively. In the shrub layer, community stabilities in T₁ (0.14), T₂ (0.28), and T₄ (0.18) were significantly higher than that in CK (0.03) between 4 and 8 years after thinning. Notably, only the T₄ treatment showed a sustained increase in community stability after thinning (shrub layer: 0.26; herb layer: 0.11). Among the four plant diversity indices, only the ΔPielou evenness index was significantly positively correlated with community stability (shrub layer: R²=0.64; herb layer: R²=0.21). Thinning intensity negatively affected community stability only within four years after thinning. Soil organic carbon and total nitrogen contents were the main soil factors affecting community stability after thinning. The T₄ treatment (60% thinning intensity) continuously improved the stability of understory shrub and herb communities, making it the optimal thinning intensity for achieving forest ecosystem stability and sustainable management in the region.



Ecological benefit assessment of seven species of lianas in Guangzhou.

WANG Zhenzhen, WENG Shufei, LIANG Dan, CHEN Junting, XU Feican, HUANG Yichun

2026, 45(4):  1172-1180.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.024

Asbtract ( 106 )   PDF (1296KB) ( 17 )  

To clarify the differences and seasonal variations in carbon sequestration and oxygen release, cooling and humidification, and dust retention benefits of flowering ornamental woody lianas in urban environment, we measured photosynthetic physiological indices and dust retention amounts of seven flowering ornamental woody lianas (including Pyrostegia venusta, Bougainvillea spectabilis, Mucuna birdwoodiana, Lonicera japonica, Quisqualis indica, Bauhinia corymbosa, and Thunbergia grandiflora) in Guangzhou during the spring (March to May), summer (June to August), and autumn (September to November). The results showed that Lonicera japonica exhibited the highest carbon sequestration and oxygen release per unit leaf area in spring and autumn, significantly higher than the other species except Thunbergia grandiflora (P<0.05). In summer, Quisqualis indica showed the highest values in carbon sequestration and oxygen release per unit leaf area (P<0.05). Lonicera japonica achieved the highest cooling and humidification per unit leaf area in summer and autumn (P<0.05), while Thunbergia grandiflora ranked the highest in spring, significantly exceeding the other species except Lonicera japonica (P<0.05). The seven woody lianas performed best in the dust retention capacity per unit leaf area in summer and autumn. Bauhinia corymbosa showed significantly higher dust retention capacity than the other plants in spring (P<0.05), while Lonicera japonica outperformed others in summer and autumn (P<0.05). The carbon sequestration and humidification of the seven lianas species were significantly positively correlated with net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, and transpiration rate (P<0.05), while the amount of dust retention was significantly positively correlated with the transpiration rate (P<0.05). These results suggest that Lonicera japonica, Thunbergia grandiflora, and Quisqualis indica exhibit the strongest comprehensive ecological benefits, making them the optimal choices for urban ecological landscaping in Guangzhou. Bauhinia corymbose, Pyrostegia venusta, Mucuna birdwoodiana, and Bougainvillea spectabilis are recommended for most urban green spaces to synergize ecological and landscape benefits.





Responses of leaf litter decomposition and associated fungal community structure to nitrogen and/or phosphorus addition in subtropical forests.

CHEN Jiayuan, YANG Hao, SHI Jiamian, ZHANG Hanshuo, QIU Yiting, LIN Chengfang, ZHENG Yong

2026, 45(4):  1181-1188.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.035

Asbtract ( 86 )   PDF (1230KB) ( 45 )  

The decomposition of leaf litter in forest ecosystems is influenced by leaf properties and litter-associated microbial community structure. A 2-year nitrogen (N) and/or phosphorus (P) addition field experiment was established in two forest types (40-50 vs 80-100 years old, representing middle-aged and mature forest, respectively). The decomposition rate of leaf litter and the associated fungal community structures were investigated using litterbag method and high-throughput sequencing technique. The results showed that P addition significantly affected the decomposition rate in the middle-aged forest (P<0.05), with higher decomposition rates being observed in the P addition alone (+20.3%) and NP (+19.5%) addition treatments. N addition alone decreased the decomposition rate by 10.5% in middle-aged forests. However, the addition of N and/or P did not affect the decomposition rate in the mature forest. N addition significantly reduced (-20%) leaf litter-associated fungal richness and Shannon index regardless of forest type. There were significant differences in community composition of leaf litter-associated fungi between the middle-aged and mature forests (PerMANOVA, P=0.001). The fungal community composition was impacted by N or P addition. The contents of soil total carbon, total N, total P and litter total P were important factors affecting fungal community composition. This study emphasizes the importance of exogenous N and P inputs for the decomposition of leaf litter, which improves our understanding of litter decomposition and influencing factors in subtropical forest ecosystems.





Responses of plant communities and soil properties to the degradation of alpine steppe in the Qinghai Lake Basin.

WANG Xiaoyun, XIAO Yuanming, WANG Wenying, XU Jiaxin, YANG Ying, ZHAO Dianzhi, ZHOU Guoying

2026, 45(4):  1189-1201.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.028

Asbtract ( 83 )   PDF (3389KB) ( 29 )  

The degradation of alpine grasslands poses a threat to the ecological and environmental security of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. A comprehensive understanding of the changes in vegetation and soil properties during the degradation process of alpine grasslands is crucial for ecological restoration. In this study, we used space-for-time substitution to examine plant community composition, biomass, species diversity, soil factors, and their relationships in alpine steppes across a degradation gradient—intact, slightly degraded, moderately degraded, and severely degraded—in the Qinghai Lake Basin. The results showed that there were significant changes in the composition of plant community with the intensification of degradation. The importance value of grass species decreased significantly with increasing degradation degree, while the importance value of forb species exhibited an opposite trend. The degradation of alpine steppe did not significantly reduce species richness in plant community. Additionally, moderate and severe degradation significantly reduced aboveground biomass of grass species and belowground biomass (0-10 cm) of the community, and increased the aboveground biomass of forbs. Severe degradation resulted in a substantial increase in soil pH and a marked decrease in soil microaggregate content. Both moderate and severe degradation significantly reduced soil moisture. Moderate degradation led to a decrease in nutrient content in the topsoil (0-10 cm), while severe degradation resulted in a reduction in nutrient content across both the topsoil and subsurface soil layer (10-20 cm). Soil nutrients and the ecological processes related to nutrient formation and turnover were the main factors controlling the characteristics of plant communities in the alpine grasslands. Our results provided a theoretical basis for formulating restoration measures suitable for the degraded alpine grasslands in the Qinghai Lake Basin.





Community characteristics and influencing factors of meadow steppe in Hinggan League.

WANG Zisu, QING Hua, ZHAO Na, WU Yunsude, ZHANG Hongyan, LI Xinyi, MU Lan, LIU Baodi, ZHANG Lei, LI Baihui, ZHAO Shenghou, ZHANG Pujin

2026, 45(4):  1202-1210.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.013

Asbtract ( 83 )   PDF (2782KB) ( 41 )  

Meadow steppe is a critical foundation for regional ecological security and husbandry development in Hinggan League. Under the combined influence of climate change and anthropogenic activities, these grasslands are experiencing notable alterations in community structure and biodiversity. The absence of systematic surveys and limited understanding of present conditions have constrained effective scientific conservation and management efforts. We established 15 plots across 3 counties in Hinggan League to survey communities belonging to four formations including Form. Cleistogenes festucacea, Form. Carex pediformis, Form. Setaria viridis and Form. Leymus chinensis. We used canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) to examine the relationship between environmental factors and species composition. The results showed that: (1) A total of 135 plant species belonging to 90 genera and 35 families were recorded. The dominant families were Asteraceae, Poaceae, Fabaceae, and Rosaceae. (2) Community α-diversity differed significantly among the four formations. In particular, the Cleistogenes festucacea and Carex pediformis formations exhibited strong adaptability to the habitats of Hinggan League. (3) Longitude, mean annual temperature, minimum temperature of the coldest month, altitude, and litter moisture content were key determinants shaping species composition. Meanwhile, altitude and precipitation were dominant drivers influencing α-diversity. These findings provide a scientific basis for the conservation and maintenance of regional biodiversity.





Interannual variations of wetland vegetation and sediment carbon storage of coastal salt marshes in Yancheng City.

GUO Ming, ZHANG Yanan, LYU Huihua, XING Wei

2026, 45(4):  1211-1217.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.029

Asbtract ( 98 )   PDF (1916KB) ( 39 )  

Coastal salt marshes are important blue carbon sinks. The photosynthetic carbon fixation capacity of salt marsh vegetation directly affects organic carbon content and carbon storage in sediments. In this study, we analyzed the interannual variation in the distribution area of major vegetation in the coastal salt marshes of Yancheng from 1975 to 2021 through literature review and data integration. Then, we examined the differences in PSII maximum photochemical efficiency (F_v/F_m) and maximum net photosynthetic rate (P_n) among Phragmites australis, Suaeda salsa, and Spartina alterniflora. Finally, we assessed the organic carbon content and carbon storage in the sediments of the Yancheng salt marsh. The results showed that the areas of P. australis and S. alterniflora in the core area of Yancheng National Rare Bird Nature Reserve increased year by year from 1983 to 2021, rising from 50 and 280.54 hm² to 6532.55 and 4281.86 hm² respectively, while the area of S. salsa decreased from 3293.2 to 1315.33 hm². From 1975 to 2019, the areas of P. australis and S. salsa outside the core area decreased significantly, dropping from approximately 60000 and 70000 hm² to approximately 8000 and 5000 hm², respectively. The average net photosynthetic rate of S. alterniflora was 14.77 μmol CO₂·m^-2·s^-1, higher than that of P. australis (11.45 μmol CO₂·m^-2·s^-1), indicating a stronger carbon fixation capacity for S. alterniflora. This resulted in significantly higher organic carbon content and carbon storage in the sediments of areas dominated by S. alterniflora than those in areas dominated by P. australis and S. salsa. The findings provide theoretical guidance for the biodiversity conservation of coastal wetlands and the study of carbon fixation in salt marshes in China.





Relationship between community characteristics and soil seed bank of Caragana korshinskii forest in Kubuqi Desert.

LI Dongzhi, ZHAO Xinghua, HUANG Ying, LI Xiran, GUAN Songyu

2026, 45(4):  1218-1225.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.025

Asbtract ( 122 )   PDF (1979KB) ( 18 )  

Exploring the differences of community characteristics, species diversity and soil seed bank of Caragana korshinskii forests in different growth states, and analyzing the correlation between plant community and soil seed bank can provide a basic theory for the natural restoration of Caragana korshinskii forests. In this study, we conducted community surveys in Caragana korshinskii forests with different growth states in Kubuqi Desert, and sampled soil seed bank. The quantitative characteristics of soil seed bank were analyzed by microscopic examination in the laboratory. The results showed that: (1) Plant height, crown width, and vegetation coverage of Caragana korshinskii artificial replanting forest were the largest. Plant species richness in Caragana korshinskii aged and degraded forest was the highest, which was 12 species, mainly from Leguminosae and Amaranthaceae. (2) The Shannon diversity index and Margalef richness index of Caragana korshinskii aged and degraded forest were the highest, being 2.26 and 2.52, respectively. (3) Soil seed bank was mainly concentrated in 0-2 cm soil layer. The density of soil seed bank in 0-2 cm of Caragana korshinskii aged and degraded forest was the highest, which was 2614 seeds·m^-2. (4) The density of soil seed bank was significantly positively correlated with plant species richness and community coverage. Therefore, the potential of soil seed bank can be fully utilized to promote the natural restoration of vegetation during the process of regeneration and transformation of aged and degraded forests.





Soil ecological stoichiometry characteristics of typical shrub communities in the Hobq Desert.

WANG Haoy, WANG Haiyong, XING Yanhong, XIN Zhiming, LI Xing, ZHANG Shuo, AO Yaning, WEI Yanjun

2026, 45(4):  1226-1235.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.032

Asbtract ( 68 )   PDF (3098KB) ( 25 )  

Elucidating the soil quality of different types of shrubland in the Hobq Desert and identifying the nutrient limitation status of shrub growth are of great significance for shrubland management and conservation. We collected soil samples from 0-10, 10-30, and 30-50 cm layers in shrub communities of Ceratoides latens, Tetraena mongolica, and Sarcozygium xanthoxylon, and analyzed soil organic matter (OM), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), and total potassium (TK) contents as well as their stoichiometric ratios. We further explored the correlations among the indicators and nutrition limitation factors for plant growth. The results showed that there were significant differences (P<0.05) in the contents of OM, TN, TP, and TK in the 0-50 cm soil layers among the three shrublands. Specifically, the contents of OM, TN, TP, and TK in the soil of the C. latens community showed a decreasing trend with increasing soil depth. However, the variations in total soil nutrient contents in the S. xanthoxylon and T. mongolica communities with increasing soil layers were inconsistent. There was a significant positive correlation among OM, TN, TP, N∶P, N∶K, and P∶K in the soil of the C. latens community (P<0.05), while TK was significantly negatively correlated with OM, TN, TP, N∶P, N∶K, and P∶K (P<0.05). Those results indicated that soil of shrubland reflects to some extent the inherent coupling and balance mechanism among various nutrient elements. There was a significant positive correlation between TN, TK, and N∶K in the soil of the S. xanthoxylon community (P<0.05), and a significant negative correlation between TP and TK and N∶P and N∶K (P<0.05). There were significant positive correlations between OM and TN, TK, N∶P, and N∶K (P<0.05), but negative correlation between TP and P∶K in the soil of the T. mongolica community (P<0.001). The growth of three shrubs was limited by N and K. Our results provide a theoretical basis for the management and maintenance of shrublands in the Hobq Desert.





Effects of grassland utilization strategies on soil nematode community characteristics in degraded Sophora alopecuroides dominated grasslands.

CHEN Lijun, CUI Dong, LIU Shuqi, JIANG Zhicheng, WU Yunhao, LIU Luyao, LIU Zezheng

2026, 45(4):  1236-1244.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.017

Asbtract ( 57 )   PDF (2510KB) ( 15 )  

We investigated the effects of different grassland utilization strategies on soil nematode community structure of degraded Sophora alopecuroides dominated grasslands, by analyzing the community structure characteristics, ecological function indices, community composition, and their relationships with soil physical and chemical properties of soil nematodes. The study aimed to provide a scientific foundation for the ecological restoration of degraded Sophora alopecuroides dominated grassland. The results showed that the abundance of soil nematodes differed significantly among treatments (P<0.05). The rank of different grassland utilization strategies with respect to soil nematode density was as follows: fencing and mowing > grazing and mowing > exclusion fencing > free grazing. Plant parasitic nematodes were the dominant trophic group, and Paratylenchus was the dominant genus across all treatments. The whole nematode community exhibited an r-strategy life history. Compared to grazing plots, fencing plots had higher nematode diversity index, richness index, and evenness index. The Wasilewska index was less than 1, and the nematode channel ratio was higher than 0.5, indicating that soil nematode community was dominated by bacterivores. The nematode total metabolic footprint was significantly higher under fencing than under grazing, indicating faster metabolic processes. Faunal analysis results suggested a low level of soil nutrient enrichment and an unstable food web. Soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, and ammonium significantly influenced soil nematode community composition. The soil nematode community structure differed significantly among different grassland utilization strategies. The abundance of nematodes under mowing was higher than that under fencing, while the abundance of nematodes under grazing and mowing was higher than that under free grazing. Moreover, the combined metabolic activity of the nematodes was enhanced. Compared to grazing conditions, the degree of grassland degradation was lighter under fencing conditions.





Seasonal variations of leaf water potential in Phyllostachys edulis of different ages under long-term drought stress.

LI Jianming, ZHOU Xuhui, LI Sheng, ZHOU Yufei, ZHOU Benzhi, CAO Yonghui

2026, 45(4):  1245-1253.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.018

Asbtract ( 88 )   PDF (1124KB) ( 29 )  

The seasonal and age-related changes in leaf water potential of Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) under drought stress were examined under long-term precipitation exclusion treatment using the “ceiling method”, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for the sustainable management of Moso bamboo under climate change. The results showed that under the drought treatment, except for the predawn leaf water potential of bamboos with age of degree I in autumn being greater than that of the control, the predawn and midday leaf water potential of bamboos with different ages were all lower than those of the control across all seasons. The predawn leaf water potential of all aged bamboos under control and drought treatments and the midday leaf water potential of all aged bamboos under control were gradually decreased over season. The midday leaf water potential under drought was decreased first, then increased, and then decreased. The annual average of predawn leaf water potential under control increased first and then decreased with increasing bamboo age, whereas that under drought and the midday leaf water potential under drought and control treatments gradually decreased. Across all the treatments, the predawn leaf water potential in summer and winter consistently decreased with increasing bamboo age. With increasing bamboo age, the predawn leaf water potential showed an ‘N’-shaped variation in spring, an ‘M’-shaped variation in autumn under the control, and a pattern of first decrease, then increase, and then decrease in autumn under drought. There was a significant difference in the predawn leaf water potential of bamboo between age of degree V and ages of degree Ⅰ to Ⅲ separately in winter under drought and control treatments (P<0.05). The midday leaf water potential of bamboos under drought stress and control treatments in different seasons was generally the lowest for bamboo with age of degree IV or V, and the highest for bamboo with age of degree Ⅰ or Ⅱ. There was a significant difference in the midday leaf water potential of bamboo between degree Ⅰ and Ⅴ in autumn and winter (P<0.05). The seasonal changes in predawn leaf water potential were consistent across all treatments for different aged bamboos. Under drought, the midday leaf water potential of bamboos with ages of degree Ⅱ and III first increased and then decreased over seasons, while that of the control with age of degree Ⅱ and III gradually decreased. The highest water recovery capacity of bamboos with age of degree I in all treatments occurred in summer. For bamboos with ages of degree Ⅱ, Ⅲ, and Ⅴ, it occurred in spring. For bamboos with age of degree Ⅳ, it occurred in summer (under drought) and autumn (control). Bamboos of various degrees had a high ability to withstand drought stress in winter under all treatments.





Responses of leaf morphology and ecological stoichiometric characteristics of Vaccinium uliginosum to altitudinal changes.

LIU Yichen, LI Jinhang, WANG Xiaowei, QI Qige, ZHANG Qichang, SUN Xinyu, WANG Meng, YANG Chunlei, MU Yuting, WANG Dongchang, LI Yangy

2026, 45(4):  1254-1264.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.020

Asbtract ( 78 )   PDF (2833KB) ( 20 )  

We examined the variations in leaf morphology and ecological stoichiometry of Vaccinium uliginosum across an altitudinal gradient along the northern slope of Changbai Mountain, as well as the influence of environmental factors on the variations of those traits. The results showed that leaf morphological characteristics (leaf length, width, area, perimeter, and length-to-width ratio) significantly decreased with increasing elevation (P<0.05), demonstrating a shift toward smaller but more rounded leaf forms. Among the ten ecological stoichiometric characteristics, leaf nitrogen (N) content and nitrogen/phosphorus ratio (N∶P) ratio showed significant positive correlations with elevation (P<0.05), while carbon/nitrogen ratio (C∶N) decreased significantly (P<0.05). Other stochiometric characteristics displayed no significant trends along the altitudinal gradient. (2) The coefficients of variation (CV) for leaf morphological characteristics exceeded those of ecological stoichiometric characteristics, with leaf area showing the highest CV (45.54%) and leaf carbon (C) content the lowest (5.41%), suggesting that leaf morphological characteristics were more sensitive to environmental change than ecological stoichiometric characteristics. (3) There was significant covariation between leaf morphological and stoichiometric traits. Leaf N∶P ratio was significantly negatively correlated with all the five morphological characteristics (P<0.001). Conversely, leaf length, area, perimeter, and length:width ratio showed strong positive correlations with leaf C∶N ratio (P<0.01) but strong negative correlations with leaf N content (P<0.001). (4) Mean annual temperature was the primary environmental driver for both leaf morphology and stoichiometry traits, highlighting its dominant role in shaping leaf traits. (5) Across all elevations on Changbai Mountain, leaf nitrogen/phosphorus ratio (N∶P) of V. uliginosum consistently exceeded 16. According to the N∶P threshold hypothesis, this indicated primary phosphorus limitation on the growth of V. uliginosum, with soil available phosphorus deficiency being the probable constraint in the study area. In conclusion, V. uliginosum on the north slope of Changbai Mountain demonstrated coordinated adjustments in both leaf morphology and ecological stoichiometry along the elevational gradient. Such trait covariation reflects an adaptive strategy where modifications in leaf morphology and nutrient use efficiency collectively enhance fitness across varying elevations.





Effects of different cropping patterns on rice aboveground growth and yield formation.

LIANG Yugang, KUANG Wei, DAI Li, LUO Xianfu, ZHAO Yang, FANG Baohua

2026, 45(4):  1265-1272.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.011

Asbtract ( 83 )   PDF (972KB) ( 16 )  

We investigated the impacts of different cropping patterns on aboveground growth and yield formation of rice (cultivars Huanghuazhan and Yexiangyoulisi) in a two-year field experiment with three cropping patterns: rice-oilseed rotation, rice-winter fallow, and rice-shrimp rotation. Rice yield and its formations, tillering dynamics, dry matter accumulation, leaf area index, leaf SPAD values, and canopy light interception were measured. The results showed that there were no significant differences in rice yield and aboveground growth characteristics between the rice-oilseed rotation and rice-winter fallow over two years. Compared with the rice-oilseed rotation, the rice-shrimp rotation significantly reduced the yields of rice cultivars Huanghuazhan and Yexiangyoulisi by 15.5%-16.4% and 14.4%-17.9%, respectively. The rice-shrimp rotation exhibited significant declines in effective panicle number, grains per panicle, tiller number, leaf area index, and dry matter accumulation in stems, leaves, and panicles. For Huanghuazhan and Yexiangyoulisi, dry matter accumulation in stems decreased by 13.5%-26.5% and 9.9%-22.7%, dry matter accumulation in leaves by 8.4%-23.2% and 7.4%-19.1%, and dry matter accumulation in panicles by 13.0%-22.2% and 16.8%-19.3%, respectively. Over the two years, SPAD values of the second uppermost leaves during the early growth periods were consistently lower in the rice-shrimp rotation compared to the rice-oilseed rotation. Canopy light interception showed a declining trend in the rice-shrimp rotation. These factors further affected dry matter accumulation in panicles and yield formation. In conclusion, the rice-shrimp rotation is not conducive to the aboveground population growth and the yield formation in rice.





Long-term planting hairy vetch reduces the abundance of diazotrophic functional genes in the tillage layer of red soils in Dongxiang, Jiangxi Province.

XI Xiaowei, SUN Luyuan, ZHU Junkang, CHENG Yuheng, LIU Jia, LIN Yongxin

2026, 45(4):  1273-1279.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.030

Asbtract ( 64 )   PDF (745KB) ( 12 )  

We investigated the effects of long-term planting of the leguminous green manure-hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth L.) on the abundance of functional genes of nitrogen-fixing bacteria in red soils. We employed realtime quantitative PCR to determine the abundances of nifH and 16S rRNA genes. There were four treatments in the field experiment, including peanut, peanut + hairy vetch, sweet potato, and sweet potato + hairy vetch. Soil samples were collected from 0-15 and 15-30 cm layers from each treatment. The results showed that long-term planting of hairy vetch significantly reduced the available potassium content in the surface soils and lowered pH of surface soil under peanut. Planting hairy vetch significantly increased soil organic carbon, dissolved organic carbon and total nitrogen contents in sweet potato surface soils, but had little effect on peanut soils. Planting hairy vetch and soil layer had significant effect on the abundance of nifH gene. The abundance of nifH gene abundance in the surface soils was significantly higher than that in the deep soils across all treatments. Planting hairy vetch significantly reduced the nifH gene abundance in the surface soils but did not affect that in the deep soils. This might be due to the reduction in soil pH and available potassium content, which inhibited the growth of nitrogen-fixing microorganisms. Planting hairy vetch did not affect 16S rRNA gene abundance in either surface or deep soil, indicating that nitrogen-fixing bacteria were more sensitive to planting hairy vetch than whole bacteria. There was a significant positive relationship between nifH gene abundance and available potassium content in surface soils, suggesting that the decrease in available potassium content is a key factor contributing to the reduction in nifH gene abundance in surface soil under hairy vetch treatments. In conclusion, planting hairy vetch can promote soil carbon sequestration in sweet potato, but reduce available potassium content and nifH gene abundance in the surface soils of peanut and sweet potato, which warrants attention in agricultural practices.





The synergistic effect of exogenous selenium and nitric oxide in alleviating drought stress in tomato seedlings: Physiological responses and gene expression mechanisms.

QIN Cheng, XI Wenjie, NIU Peiyao, ZHANG Xiaxin, SHEN Jie, LI Qiang, LIAN Huida

2026, 45(4):  1280-1289.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.016

Asbtract ( 92 )   PDF (1966KB) ( 15 )  

We investigated the effects of exogenous selenium (Se) and nitric oxide (NO) on the growth of tomato seedlings under drought stress using ‘Bojue II’ tomato as the test material in a hydroponic culture system. There were eight treatments under both control and drought stress conditions, comprising: no external substance application (ddH₂O), root-applied 1 μmol·L^-1 Se, foliar-sprayed 100 μmol·L^-1 NO, and their combined treatment. We measured tomato seedling growth, membrane lipid peroxidation, chlorophyll content, antioxidant enzyme activities, and the expression levels of related genes. Compared with the control (CK), drought stress significantly decreased the growth parameters and photosynthetic pigment contents of tomato seedlings while inducing oxidative damage, which was characterized by marked elevations in the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and the activities of antioxidant enzymes. Under drought stress, exogenous selenium (Se) and nitric oxide (NO) effectively mitigated oxidative damage, with the combined Se+NO treatment exerting the most pronounced effect. Relative to no exogenous addition treatment, the MDA and H₂O₂ contents in leaves were significantly reduced by 42.5% and 42.8%, respectively. The combined treatment downregulated oxidative stress and strongly activated the antioxidant defense system. Specifically, it increased the expression levels of SlSOD, SlCAT, SlAPX, and SlGR genes by 67.8%, 28.6%, 38.5% and 21%, respectively. This, in turn, further enhanced the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and glutathione reductase (GR) by 140%, 20%, 30%, and 30%, respectively. In summary, exogenous Se and NO application improved photosynthetic performance and growth of tomato seedlings under drought stress by synergistically regulating the transcription of antioxidant enzymerelated genes, enhancing the activity of the enzymatic defense system, and alleviating membrane lipid peroxidation. This study provides a basis for elucidating the mechanisms underlying the effects of Se, NO, and their interaction, and offers theoretical support for their application in tomato production.





Spatiotemporal niche differentiation among three sympatric pheasant species in Fujian Liangye Mountain Nature Reserve.

JI Chengpeng, LIN Yufang, LAN Zuomin, ZENG Qimiao, HUANG Xiaochun, YAO Wenyang, CHENG Yanan, LE Tongchao, TAN Fanglin

2026, 45(4):  1290-1299.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.012

Asbtract ( 92 )   PDF (1879KB) ( 35 )  

Species coexistence is a core topic in community ecology and biodiversity conservation research. To explore the temporal and spatial niche differentiation and the coexistence mechanisms among sympatric pheasant species, we conducted a camera trap survey from September 2022 to October 2023 in the Fujian Liangye Mountain National Nature Reserve. We focused on three sympatrically distributed pheasant species. Lophura nycthemera, Bambusicola thoracica and Arborophila gingica. We used kernel density estimation, Jacobs selectivity index (JSI), and relative abundance index to analyze daily and monthly activity rhythms, selection of activity periods, and seasonal relative abundance index, respectively. Pianka’s index was used to assess spatial overlap among the three species. The results showed a generally high degree of temporal overlap among the three species, while their activity peaks did not completely overlap. Their monthly activity patterns followed a bimodal trend with similar peak periods. A. gingica exhibited greater temporal differentiation from the other species during the warm season. All the three species preferred morning hours during the warm season and showed increased activity during sunrise and sunset in the cold season, likely in response to environmental conditions and human disturbance. Spatially, the three species showed notable avoidance of each other, with the lowest spatial overlap occurring during the warm season. These findings suggest that spatial niche differentiation may be an important mechanism driving the coexistence of the three pheasant species. The study provides important scientific support for the conservation and management of pheasants in southeastern China’s hilly regions.





Analysis of suitable habitat for forest musk deer (Moschus berezovskii) in the Liupan Mountain region.

LI Jiahua, ZHANG Yali, HU Yulong, ZHU Chaohui, SONG Sen, BAO Xinkang

2026, 45(4):  1300-1307.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.014

Asbtract ( 113 )   PDF (2231KB) ( 38 )  

The assessment of suitable habitats is crucial for wildlife conservation, ecological restoration, and effective management. Species distribution models have been extensively utilized to predict suitable habitats and to analyze the key determinants influencing the distribution of endangered and rare species across diverse regions. To comprehensively understand the suitable area of forest musk deer (Moschus berezovskii), we collected presence data using infrared camera traps in the Liupan Mountain National Nature Reserve (2017-2019) and the Gansu Taitong-Kongtong Mountain National Nature Reserve (2023-2024). The MaxEnt model was used to predict the suitable distribution area. The results showed that majority (66.34%) of the suitable habitats were concentrated within two national nature reserves. The Liupan Mountain National Nature Reserve covered an area of 222.33 km², accounting for 32.65% of the reserve area, while the Gansu Taitong-Kongtong Mountain National Nature Reserve covered an area of 76.43 km², accounting for 46.94% of the reserve area. Vegetation type was the most important factor influencing the habitat suitability of forest musk deer in the Liupan Mountain region, with a contribution of 51.7%. Additionally, temperature, precipitation, and human disturbance affected habitat suitability to varying degrees. By evaluating the distribution of suitable habitats and identifying the key environmental determinants, this study provides a scientific foundation for the conservation of forest musk deer and their ecological environment in the Liupan Mountain region.





Longterm changes in species composition and population dynamics of amphibians in Shanghai.

ZHANG Wei, ZHENG Yunxiang, JI Lei, BO Shunqi, XIE Hanbin, WANG Junfu, LI Bicheng, YANG Gang

2026, 45(4):  1308-1314.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.009

Asbtract ( 109 )   PDF (1085KB) ( 26 )  

Global urbanization is accelerating the losses of amphibian biodiversity. Based on systematic field surveys at 52 sites in Shanghai (2019-2021), historical literature (1980-2025), and monitoring data (1997-2017), we analyzed the dynamics of amphibian communities in Shanghai. The results showed that the number of species plummeted from 14 in the 1980s to only 6, with the complete disappearance of aquatic-running water type and arboreal type. There was significant divergence in population dynamics, in that the distribution and population density of Microhyla fissipes continuously increased from being “relatively scarce” during 1997-2000 to reaching 27.88 ind·hm^-2 in 2020. Fejervarya multistriata dominated farmland habitats (accounting for 46.7%), with a density as high as 185.90 ind·hm^-2. Pelophylax plancyi declined from a dominant species to a common species, with its overall proportion decreasing from 39.80% in 2013-2017 to 19.37% in 2021. The standard deviation of densities surged for all species, highlighting the increased spatial heterogeneity of populations driven by habitat fragmentation. “Urban adapters” that rely on temporary water bodies (e.g., F. multistriata, M. fissipes) expanded due to broad-spectrum diets and rapid reproduction, whereas “urban avoiders” requiring stable water bodies (e.g., P. plancyi) declined due to water body artificialization and intensified disturbance.





The effects of different straw and sheep manure mixtures on the conversion efficiency of Protaetia brevitarsis larvae.

QIAN Qi, SHAO Qianxue, MIAO Yuanyuan, SONG Jiabao, ZHAI Xinyi, ZHENG Xusong, LV Zhongxian, ZHU Pingyang

2026, 45(4):  1315-1323.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.026

Asbtract ( 151 )   PDF (2834KB) ( 12 )  

To assess the feasibility of rearing Protaetia brevitarsis larvae on common agricultural wastes and their potential to convert low-value agricultural residues into high-quality protein products, we conducted an experiment with four typical agricultural wastes (rice straw, corn straw, sorghum straw, and shiitake mushroom spent substrate) as well as five composite substrates: 70% rice straw + 30% sheep manure, 70% corn straw + 30% sheep manure, 70% sorghum straw + 30% sheep manure, 70% shiitake mushroom spent substrate + 30% sheep manure, and pure sheep manure (served as a control). The impacts of different straw-based substrates on larval growth performance, feed conversion efficiency, and body nutritional composition of P. brevitarsis were investigated. The results showed that the second-instar P. brevitarsis larvae achieved the highest feed conversion efficiency on the 70% corn straw + 30% sheep manure substrate, whereas the third-instar larvae exhibited the highest conversion efficiency when fed with 70% sorghum straw + 30% sheep manure. There was no significant difference in crude protein content among larvae reared on different substrate treatments. The larvae fed the 70% corn straw + 30% sheep manure substrate had the highest contents of total amino acids and crude fat, which were significantly higher than those in the other treatment groups (P<0.05). In summary, P. brevitarsis larvae possess efficient conversion capabilities for the composite substrates of corn straw/sorghum straw and sheep manure. 70% corn straw + 30% sheep manure can be used as the rearing substrate to produce larvae with superior nutritional value. This study provides a novel approach for the resource utilization of agricultural wastes and contributes to promoting the development of the P. brevitarsis breeding industry, with significant theoretical and practical significance.





Characteristics and ecological risk assessment of antibiotic contamination in farmland after application of chicken manure fertilizer.

XUE Qianqian, CHEN Fengxian, LIU Dandan, CHEN Xijuan

2026, 45(4):  1324-1332.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.033

Asbtract ( 94 )   PDF (1794KB) ( 25 )  

Returning livestock manure to the field is a fundamental strategy for addressing the pollution issues associated with livestock and poultry farming. However, antibiotics contained in manure can pose significant risks to soils after being applied to farmland, compromising environmental safety and human health. In recent years, many studies on the potential risks of antibiotic contamination in farmland soil have been conducted under laboratory conditions, typically by adding manure to simulate contamination. However, these studies cannot fully assess the contamination risks of antibiotics under natural fertilization conditions. We evaluated the impacts of chicken manureborne antibiotics on soil health in Changtu County, Tieling City, Liaoning Province. Chicken manure was applied to replace chemical fertilizers at the rates of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. We examined the concentration changes and ecological risks of three tetracycline antibiotics (TCs) and three sulfonamide antibiotics (SAs) in the soils. The results showed that TCs in chicken manure were 2.54-4.82 mg·kg^-1 and SAs were 30.41-41.23 μg·kg^-1. Applying chicken manure significantly increased the content of antibiotics in the surface soil, especially for TCs. All six antibiotics could migrate downward in the soil. Under the experimental conditions, SAs had greater migration capacity than TCs. After half a year of fertilization, the SAs were mainly concentrated at 40-60 cm soil layer. Ecological risks of antibiotics in soil were assessed by the risk quotient method. SAs might reach a higher ecological risk at low dose concentrations. By a mixed antibiotic risk assessment, the ecological risk of antibiotics is relatively low when replacing chemical fertilizers with 50% or less proportions of organic fertilizers.





Distribution characteristics and ecological risk assessment of main pesticides in soil of a typical cash crop producing area in Sichuan Basin.

WANG Benjin, YUE Tingting, SU Mingyue, WANG Maosheng, YANG Yuankun, CHEN Shu

2026, 45(4):  1333-1343.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.036

Asbtract ( 82 )   PDF (3006KB) ( 17 )  

We aimed to clarify the distribution characteristics and ecological risks of major pesticides in the soil of a typical economic crop production area in the Sichuan Basin by examining the residue levels of five major pesticides in 121 soil samples from the crop planting area using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Key influencing factors of the main pesticide residues were analyzed by combining soil factors with residue levels, and their ecological risks were assessed using the risk quotient (RQ) method. The results showed that four pesticides (carbendazim, imidacloprid, trichlorfon, and phoxim) except abamectin were detected in the soil samples. There were seasonal variations in surface soil pesticide residues, with significantly higher residue levels in summer (19.67-733.97 μg·kg^-1) than in winter (11.33-114.7 μg·kg^-1) (P<0.05). The total amount of pesticide followed the trend: lemon planting area > prickly ash planting area > cabbage planting area > citrus planting area. The types and levels of pesticide residues varied significantly among crop types and seasons. Ecological risk assessment results indicated that carbendazim posed a high ecological risk. The high-risk crop plots were located in lemon planting areas, with 6 sites in winter and 8 sites in summer. The acute risk of pesticides in the surveyed economic crop soils to earthworms was generally low. For high-risk pesticides, their soil residue concentrations should be monitored, providing a basis for further identification of pesticide pollution problems and risks in the soils of economic crop areas in the Sichuan Basin. This study has important practical guiding significance for ensuring soil environment monitoring and agricultural product quantity safety in important cash crop producing areas in the Sichuan Basin.





Impact of understory economic management on forest ecosystem services and their trade-off relationship: A case study of Qingyuan County.

JIN Lei, YONG Huanying, CAI Huijun, LIU Huaqi, ZHANG Jinxin, LIU Lifang, GAO Tian, LI Xiufen

2026, 45(4):  1344-1352.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.027

Asbtract ( 86 )   PDF (1567KB) ( 18 )  

Understory economic management is an important approach to increase the income of local residents, 〖but its effects on ecosystem services and their trade-offs remain unclear. Qingyuan Manchu Autonomous County of Liaoning Province (hereinafter referred to as Qingyuan County) is a typical forest area in the eastern part of Northeast China. Using the methods of field survey, questionnaire, "3S" technology, InVEST model and scenario analysis, we examined the development of understory economy and its effects on provisioning and regulating services in Qingyuan County from 2015 to 2024. The optimal management and its spatial pattern were proposed. The results showed that the managed area of the understory planting increased from 23400 hm² in 2015 to 47400 hm² in 2024, with a 102.29% increase. As the increase in managed area, soil conservation decreased by 1.36% and water yield increased by 8.72%. Timber production decreased by 0.49%, and understory economic provision increased by 108.18%, with an increase of 0.67% in total provision value. The scenario analysis showed that the provisioning service per unit area of forest first increased and then decreased, and soil erosion and water yield showed an increasing trend with the expansion of the managed area of plantation forest and natural forest. Provisioning and regulating services showed a strong trade-off relationship, and a significant turning point was identified. In order to reduce the tradeoffs between provisioning and regulating services and to balance understory economy management and ecological conservation, it is recommended that the proportion of managed area of understory economy in plantation forests and natural forests should not be higher than 50% and 20%, respectively. Our results provide a theoretical basis for the rational development of the understory economy, and have important significance for realizing the sustainable development of forest region and the goals of rural revitalization in Northeast China.





The inversion and three-dimensional feature of leaf chlorophyll content of individual tree canopies in mixed forests.

YANG Wencai, WANG Hong, ZHANG Meng

2026, 45(4):  1353-1363.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.037

Asbtract ( 75 )   PDF (4746KB) ( 31 )  

The threedimensional spatial heterogeneity of leaf chlorophyll content (LCC) at the individual tree canopy is critical for evaluating the physiological status and light use efficiency of trees, and for analyzing interspecific interactions in mixed forests. However, previous studies often focus on the stand scale and overlook the vertical variation of LCC within the canopy, which limits in-depth understanding of ecological processes in mixed forests. To address this gap, we conducted plot surveys and leaf biochemical analyses in artificial mixed forests in the Yellow River Delta. Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-borne LiDAR (UAV-LiDAR) was employed for individual tree segmentation and 3D spatial partitioning, while hyperspectral imagery (UAV-HSI) data were processed using a coupled framework of PROSPECT-D leaf optical model and LESS canopy radiative transfer model to classify tree species and retrieve individual canopy LCC. The results showed that: (1) The fusion of UAV-LiDAR and UAV-HSI data enabled effective discrimination of different tree species in the mixed forests (Overall Accuracy=91.7%, Kappa=0.887), and the coupled PROSPECT-D-LESS model achieved accurate retrieval of individual canopy LCC (R²=0.809, RMSE=4.973 μg·cm^-2). (2) Species mixtures were associated with significant shifts in LCC. Compared to monocultures, the LCC of Robinia pseudoacacia increased by 13.6% (P<0.05) in R. pseudoacacia-Fraxinus velutina mixtures but decreased by 39.4% (P<0.05) in R. pseudoacacia-Ulmus pumila mixtures. (3) In the horizontal direction, canopy LCC was generally higher on the eastern and southern sides than on the western and northern sides. Vertically, LCC increased with the height of R. pseudoacacia and F. velutina monocultures. The trend was opposite in mixed stands. Notably, the vertical LCC gradient of R. pseudoacacia inverted when mixed with U. pumila, while U. pumila exhibited a consistent decreasing trend with height in both monoculture and mixed settings. Our results can provide an effective method for the inversion of individual tree canopy LCC and the analysis of its spatial variations in mixed forests, and offer a scientific basis for evaluating tree physiological performance in mixed forests and the guidance of regional ecological restoration strategies.





Progress in the study of the relationship between plant water use and rainfall.

HE Yuxiao, HE Siyu, REN Yufen, XU Huashan

2026, 45(4):  1364-1370.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.021

Asbtract ( 108 )   PDF (977KB) ( 28 )  

Changes in rainfall patterns induced by climate change are significantly affecting terrestrial water balance. As a key medium to sustain ecosystem water cycle, plants play a central role in regulating the dynamic balance of water environment. Multidimensional studies on the relationship between plant water use and rainfall have revealed the complex adaptation mechanisms of plants to water stress in different ecosystems. Studies based on stable isotope tracing, trunk sap flow monitoring and ecological modeling have shown that the response of plant water use to rainfall is highly dynamic. The changes in water use strategies are the result of a combination of factors, with strong species and regional variability. In addition, plants significantly improve water use efficiency through root hydraulic redistribution. With the intensification of climate change, the global rainfall pattern has been significantly altered, including the expansion of arid zones, the increase of rainfall variability, and the frequent occurrence of extreme rainfall events, which makes the study of plant-water interactions more and more urgent. Based on a summary of the research progress regarding the relationship between plant water use and rainfall, this study analyzed the impacts of climate change on rainfall patterns, revealed the mechanism by which rainfall changes affect the spatiotemporal distribution of soil moisture as well as the subsequent influence on the water absorption and utilization of plants, and put forward suggestions for the future research directions concerning the relationship between plant water use and rainfall.





Cognition on seed ecology in ancient China.

LIU Zhimin, JIA Ruochen

2026, 45(4):  1371-1378.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.022

Asbtract ( 83 )   PDF (555KB) ( 25 )  

Seed ecology is the scientific study of the interaction mechanisms between seeds and their environment. In ancient China, a systematic cognitive framework in seed ecology had been established, driven synergistically by the demands of grain production, practices in herbal medicine, the naturalist traditions of literati, fruit cultivation and horticultural technologies, and experiences in famine relief. Classic literature such as “Guan Zi”, “Lüshi Chunqiu”, “Fan Shengzhi Shu”, and “Qi Min Yao Shu” all contain contents of seed ecology. Ancient China’s understanding of seed ecology included seed development, the impact of water and fertilizer, seed abortion, postmaturity ripening, and storage. Ancient China developed mature methods for seed selection, seed health, storage, and sowing, created advanced seed treatment techniques including sun drying, sand storage, and herbal treatment, and had a profound understanding of the scientific principles of water physiology, mineral nutrition, material transport, and storage physiology. Based on empirical cognition, close attention to the impact of natural environment, exploration of the medicinal value of plants, and emphasis on seed diversity, ancient wisdom and modern science were bridged, providing ideas and methods for modern seed ecology.





Research progress on the influencing factors of seed germination of Suaeda species.

LIU Xuepeng, ZHANG Kaipeng, ZHANG Dongjie, SHI Yu1, QIU Yunhui, HE Wenjun, ZHANG Mingye

2026, 45(4):  1379-1389.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202603.015

Asbtract ( 76 )   PDF (2535KB) ( 22 )  

Suaeda species are vital pioneer plants in the ecological restoration of saline-alkali wetlands. Seed germination represents a critical stage for overcoming environmental filtering, which directly determines the potential for population establishment and profoundly influences the process and effectiveness of ecosystem reconstruction. However, there are several challenges in current research: single-factor controlled experiments often fail to adequately simulate the complexity of natural habitats; the coupling mechanisms among multi-scale environmental factors remain unclear; and studies on plant stress resistance regulation are still limited, with underlying mechanisms yet to be fully elucidated. We systematically reviewed 181 papers published by Chinese researchers since 1995 on seed germination in Suaeda species, and then summarized key factors and research progress from both biological and abiotic perspectives. In terms of biological factors, we focused on seed traits (heteromorphism, dormancy) and external biological influences (allelopathy, phytohormones), and examined their inhibitory or promotive effects on germination. Regarding abiotic factors, we outlined the regulatory effects of environmental conditions such as temperature/light, water-salt interactions, and growth substrates on seed germination, and summarized the advances in novel germination enhancement methods, including brown algae oligosaccharide application and heat shock treatment. Based on identified research gaps, we proposed future directions, including enhancing the practical application of germination technologies in field conditions, deepening the exploration of stress resistance and adaptation mechanisms, and promoting the development of big data-driven predictive models for ecological restoration. This review would provide a theoretical foundation and practical guidance for the application of Suaeda species in the restoration of diverse habitats.





Isolation and identification of Pseudothermotoga elfii strain A17 and inhibition of its hydrogen sulfide-producing activity. 

ZHANG Weisen, LAI Jianbin, HAO Yehong, LI Wei, JIANG Hanzhang, YIN Hongchao, ZHANG Sigen, WANG Hang, ZHAO Jinlong, SHI Rongjiu

2026, 45(4):  1390-1397.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.034

Asbtract ( 70 )   PDF (2231KB) ( 9 )  

The issue of microbial-induced hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) in oilfields, also known as microbial souring, exerts deleterious effects on oilfield development, including safety concerns and corrosion. Nevertheless, research endeavors are critically needed to understand the physiological characteristics and control strategies of the microorganisms responsible for H₂S production. We employed the roll tube technique to isolate and screen the hydrogen sulfide-producing bacteria from the production water of an offshore souring high-temperature oil well. We examined the physiological and biochemical characteristics of the high-efficient strain and the inhibitory effects of several biocides on the activity of H₂S production. The results showed that the high-efficient hydrogen sulfide-producing bacterial strain A17 shared 99% similarity of 16S rRNA gene sequence with the type strain DSM9442 of Pseudothermotoga elfii. The cells of A17 were short rods, with a length of 2.2 μm, and motile. The optimal growth condition was at 65 ℃, pH 7.0, and a salinity of 1%, respectively. Strain A17 could utilize a diverse range of carbon sources, including sodium lactate, glucose, and sodium acetate. Strain A17 utilized thiosulfate as electron acceptor, instead of sulfate, sulfite, nitrate, and or nitrite. The amendment of glutaraldehyde (at a final concentration of 200 mg·L^-1), tetrakis (hydroxymethyl) phosphonium sulfate (200 mg·L^-1), bronopol (40 mg·L^-1) or nitrite (20 mg·L^-1) alone resulted in the complete inhibition of H₂S-producing activity of A17 within the 30-day incubation. Strain A17 is a thermophilic H₂S-producing bacterium that differs from the sulfate-reducing bacteria frequently observed in oilfield habitats. The potential contribution of “non-sulfate-reducing bacteria”, as represented by A17, to the secondary H₂S in oilfields merits further investigation. Our findings contribute to the understanding of souring-causing microorganisms in high-temperature oilfields. The A17 strain could be used for the research and development of mitigation strategies in the study region.





Surfactant-enhanced degradation of resin and asphaltene in crude oil-contaminated soils by actinomycetes (Streptomyces sp. and Rhodococcus sp.).

NIU Zhixin, CONG Jing, GUO Pengyu, WANG Zhiyun, ZHENG Dongmei

2026, 45(4):  1398-1408.  doi:10.13292/j.1000-4890.202604.031

Asbtract ( 91 )   PDF (7424KB) ( 23 )  

Utilizing environmentally friendly and cost-effective microbial degradation to remove residual resin and asphaltene is crucial for the complete remediation of crude oil-contaminated soil. We investigated the effects of surfactants Tween 80 (TW), Triton X-100 (TX), and sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS) at concentrations of 0 (control), 5, 10, and 20 mg·kg^-1 on the degradation of resin and asphaltene in crude oil-contaminated soil by actinomycetes (Streptomyces sp. and Rhodococcus sp.). Based on an experiment with simulated soil composting degradation, we evaluated the impacts of individual and composite surfactant treatments on actinomycete biomass, the contents of total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH), resin, asphaltene, aromatic hydrocarbon, and saturated hydrocarbon. The results showed that surfactant addition significantly enhanced actinomycete biomass and petroleum hydrocarbon degradation efficiency. Compared to that in the control, the biomass of both actinomycete strains were consistently higher in the SDBS treatments across different incubation periods. Biomass in the TX treatments was lower than in the SDBS treatments, while biomass in the TW treatments was the lowest. TPH contents in the SDBS treatments were significantly lower than those in the other treatments. Notably, in the SDBS (20 mg·kg^-1) treatment, TPH decreased from an initial 39 to 16.5 g·kg^-1 after 42 days of incubation, substantially lower than the 35.5 g·kg^-1 in the control. Among the composite treatments, the TX×SDBS combination yielded the lowest TPH contents. Specifically, in the Rhodococcus sp. experimental group under TX×SDBS treatments, TPH decreased from 39 to 16.2 g·kg^-1 after 42 days of incubation (P<0.05). Our results indicate that the application of 20 mg·kg^-1 SDBS alone or the composite surfactant combination TX (20 mg·kg^-1) × SDBS (20 mg·kg^-1) can significantly enhance actinomycete activity and promote the bioavailability and degradation efficiency of resin and asphaltene in crude oil-contaminated soil.