Analyzing the Spatial Patterns and Impact Factors of Vegetation Net Primary Productivity and Precipitation Utilization Efficiency in Heilongjiang Province Under Climate Change

Abstract

Understanding the spatial patterns and driving mechanisms of net primary productivity (NPP) and precipitation utilization efficiency (PUE) is crucial for assessing ecosystem services. This study analyzed the variations in NPP and PUE in Heilongjiang Province from 2001 to 2020, using MOD17A3 NPP products and meteorological, topographic, and land use data. The distribution of the NPP and PUE of seven land use categories was determined in the study, namely, cropland, forest, grassland, water, barren, impervious and wetland. The multi-year spatial averages for NPP and PUE were 428.96 gC·m−2·a−1 and 0.74 gC·m−2·mm−1, respectively, with forests showing the highest values and barren lands the lowest. During the study period, 91.4% of the NPP increased at an average rate of 3.36 gC·m−2·a−1, while PUE exhibited a polarized trend. Changes in land use, especially conversions involving cropland and forest, along with climatic factors such as rising precipitation and temperature, significantly influenced NPP and PUE dynamics. These findings provide a scientific basis for ecological restoration and the assessment of ecosystem function under changing climatic conditions.