Assessment of Topographic Effect on Habitat Quality in Mountainous Area Using InVEST Model

The topographic differentiation patterns of changes in habitat quality are of great significance for the scientific formulation of environmental protection policies in mountainous areas. Here, the distribution, changing trends, and the effects of the topographic gradient on habitat quality were studied using the InVEST model, the topographic distribution index, and the Mann-Kendall test. The results showed that at p < 0.05 (Z = 1.67), the habitat quality from 2000 to 2020 showed three types of trends (significant decline, non-significant change, and significant increase), accounting for 22.2%, 41.8%, and 36% of the changes, respectively. Because of the livelihood structure of the local residents and geological disasters in high-elevation areas, this terrain was the predominant area showing a significant decline in habitat quality. Thanks to the consolidation of projects for the protection of natural forest resources, the return of farmland to forest, and the implementation of projects for protecting the natural forest, the low-lying topography was the predominant area showing a significant increase in habitat quality. The middle topographic position was the predominant area showing no significant changes in habitat quality. Based on the results of the analysis, ecological management and protection measures for high-, medium-, and low-elevation areas were suggested.

Automated summary

The study used the InVEST model, topographic distribution index, and Mann-Kendall test to investigate the distribution, changing trends, and effects of topographic gradient on habitat quality. The results showed that habitat quality exhibited three types of trends (significant decline, non-significant change, and significant increase) during 2000-2020. High-elevation areas experienced a significant decline due to the livelihood structure of local residents and geological disasters, while low-lying areas showed a significant increase in habitat quality due to forest conservation projects. Middle topographic position showed no significant changes. Suggestions for ecological management and protection measures were provided for different elevation areas.