Ecological water conveyance-driven wetland hydrological connectivity and morphological changes in arid regions: An analysis of the Taitema Lake wetland

Abstract

Wetland hydrological connectivity is essential for both providing the structure and function of wetland ecosystems and restoring them. The Taitema Lake wetland exhibit a high sensitivity to hydrological changes, with alterations in watershed dynamics having a significant impact on their ecosystem function and structure. There are notable gaps in the assessment studies of hydrological connectivity. This study examines the spatiotemporal changes and distribution characteristics of hydrological connectivity under ecological water conveyance using Landsat images taken before and after the conveyance from 2002 to 2023. Techniques used include the MSPA model and the landscape index-based hydrological connectivity index. The findings demonstrate that: 1. Ecological water transport enhances wetlands' hydrological connection; the Tarim River contributes 39.43 % to the water conveyance volume of the area, while the Cherchen River contributes 60.57 %. 2. Their respective impacts on hydrological connectivity are 93.72 % and 6.28 %. A favorable association exists between a water area and connectivity. Alterations in water areas can somewhat influence the connectedness of aquatic patches; however, they are not the primary determinant of hydrological connectivity.3. The primary patches with elevated important values can be found near the bridge across the Taitema Lake, which serves as the nucleus of the overall wetland hydrological connectivity. 4. Alterations in the core patches significantly influence hydrological connectivity, whereas bridging and branching serve a secondary function.This paper presents practical examples of examining ecohydrological processes in wetland ecosystems situated in arid regions. Additionally, it establishes a scientific foundation for researching ecological water conveyance and enhancing water resource management.