Implementation of Diversified Ecological Networks to Strengthen Wetland Conservation

Abstract

The notion that the conservation of wetlands in the world is too limited has gained a universal consensus because of the conflicts between their great value and the drastic decline in their quantity and quality. To mitigate these conflicts, ecological networks have integrated the hydrologic and biological connectivity of ecosystems. The basic elements of ecological networks, patches, and corridors, have been extracted to reflect the attributes of the hydrologic and biological connectivity of ecosystems. This paper reviews recent applications of network approaches to ecological conservation, focusing on their application in wetland ecosystems, and proposing a new perspective for wetland conservation. This review is limited to four aspects: first, the linkages between wetlands and ecological networks are determined by reviewing the development both of them; second, the two types of connectivity and their application that can be obtained from graphs or network models are discussed; third, common network analysis approaches, which can provide a theoretical basis to explore the optimal relationship between network structure and function, are summarized; finally, this paper presents the configuration and convergence characteristics of different types of wetland networks at multiple spatial scales. At the conclusion, suggestions for further work are presented.

A review of methodologies and success indicators for coastal wetland restoration

“…Furthermore, the improvement of wetland hydrological connectivity and the recovery of underground hydrology can also relieve superabundant nitrogen, phosphorus and bacteria, accrete sediment retention and lower soil erosion, all of which contribute to wetland restoration to some degree (Richardson et al, 2011). Cui et al (2012) reported that wetland conservation could be strengthened through diversifying the ecological networks, especially by establishing higher hydrological connectivity. Kamali and Hashim (2011) constructed a breakwater to protect mangroves from wave action and to slow the sedimentation rate, facilitating the natural restoration of mangrove forests.…”

Wetland Ecology in China

“…Their results showed that the designed network with three new patch wetlands and water trade‐off scenarios made additional water available to wetlands. Cui et al 6 reviewed the linkage between wetlands and ecological networks, discussed the importance of hydrological and biological connectivity for wetland networks. Meanwhile, they also concluded the common network analysis approaches and wetland network characteristics.…”

“…wetland pollution 4, land use 5, eutrophication, etc., and global change (e.g. seawater intrusion) 6. Over the last 150 years, more than 50% of the world's wetlands may have been altered, degraded or lost through a wide range of human activities 7.…”

Changes of Biogenic Elements in Phragmites australis and Suaeda salsa from Salt Marshes in Yellow River Delta, China

“…Especially, the changes of biogenic elements of different plant communities and tissues in coastal wetlands are still less known. However, wetlands are becoming one of the most degraded ecosystems on earth (Amezaga et al, 2002), and more than 50% of global wetlands have already been destroyed as a result of various human and natural causes (Cui et al, 2012). Therefore, it is very necessary to investigate the composition of biogenic elements and ecological stoichiometric characteristics in coastal wetland plants, which can contribute to providing a basis for the restoration and conservation of coastal wetlands.…”