[Spatial and Temporal Characteristics and Driving Force Analysis of Vegetation Cover Change in Greater Khingan Mountains Ecological Functional Area Based on KNDVI].

Abstract

The Greater Khingan Mountains, as the sole cold temperate coniferous forest region in China, possess paramount ecological value and importance. Investigating the spatiotemporal variations of vegetation and the underlying driving factors in the Greater Khingan Mountains is crucially important for the ecological preservation of this region, for China's ecological security, and for advancing sustainable development. By utilizing the MOD09GA dataset, we constructed the kernel normalized difference vegetation index （KNDVI） as a metric for assessing vegetation growth conditions. Employing methodologies, such as Theil-Sen slope analysis, Mann-Kendall test, and the Hurst index, we examined the spatiotemporal dynamics of the vegetation within the Greater Khingan Mountains ecological function area and projected its future developmental trends. Utilizing the optimal parameter geographical detector, we identified the key environmental factors influencing vegetation cover changes in the Greater Khingan Mountains. The findings indicate that： ① From 2001 to 2020, vegetation cover in the Greater Khingan Mountains exhibited a progressive decline from north to south in spatial distribution, with the KNDVI increasing at a rate of 0.03 （10 a）^-1. ② From 2001 to 2020, the spatial distribution pattern of vegetation cover in the Greater Khingan Mountains maintained a consistent northeast-southwest orientation, demonstrating a migratory trend towards the northeast. ③ Changes in land use type were determined to be the primary factor influencing vegetation cover changes in the Greater Khingan Mountains ecological function area. ④ Compared to individual factors, the interplay among multiple factors provided a more comprehensive explanation of the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of vegetation cover. These research outcomes offer valuable insights into the intrinsic mechanisms of vegetation change in the Greater Khingan Mountains ecological function area, inform sustainable development strategies, and provide a scientific basis for addressing global climate change challenges.