Differential Response of Ecosystem Service to Restoration Methods and Restoration Time in Shallow Landslide-Prone Areas

Abstract

Vegetation restoration effectively inhibits soil erosion, improves soil structure, increases soil carbon storage, and restores ecosystem service functions in vulnerable areas. Understanding the complex interactions between ecosystem services is essential for scientifically managing ecological restoration. However, systematic research in geohazard-prone areas with fragile ecosystems remains limited. Individual ecosystem services may exhibit varying trade-offs or synergies depending on restoration methods and duration, yet their relationships and optimization strategies are poorly understood. To address this, we investigated shallow landslide-prone areas in China where ecological restoration projects have been ongoing for 14 years. By assessing key ecosystem services-carbon storage, water conservation, and soil retention-under different restoration methods and duration, we found that ecosystem service capacity improved significantly, driven more by restoration modes than time. Artificial restoration had a greater positive impact than natural restoration. Over time, the soil and water conservation-carbon stock trade-off shifted toward continuous positive change. Additionally, the relationship between soil retention and water conservation transitioned from trade-off to synergy, indicating enhanced ecosystem functionality. Our study highlights the benefits of integrating restoration practices across management modes rather than time to develop sustainable ecosystem management strategies. These findings underscore the importance of artificial measures to strengthen ecosystem services in fragile and degraded areas.