Biodiv Sci ›› 2024, Vol. 32 ›› Issue (11): 23490.  DOI: 10.17520/biods.2023490

• Original Papers: Animal Diversity •     Next Articles

Seasonal and regional patterns and conservation strategies of waterbird diversity in the Yellow River Basin

Chunxiao Wang1, Zhengwang Zhang2, Shaoxia Xia1,3, Houlang Duan1,3, Wen Wang4, Yifei Jia5, Lixun Zhang6, Gang Feng7, Yaqiao Yang8, Tong Li9, Changqing Ding5, Chunping Wang10, Baodong Yuan11, Jinyu Lei12, Yu Liu1,3, Jianbin Shi13, Keqi Lan14, Qingqing Shi15, Qing Xiao1,3, Xiubo Yu1,3*    


  1. 1 Key Laboratory of Ecosystem Network Observation and Modelling, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
    2 College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
    3 University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
    4 State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
    5 School of Ecology and Nature Conservation, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
    6 College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
    7 School of Ecology and Environment, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot 010021, China
    8 Shaanxi Institute of Zoology, Xi’an 710032, China
    9 Shanxi Wild Bird Observation, Taiyuan 030000, China
    10 Henan Province Forestry Resources Monitoring Institute, Zhengzhou 450045, China
    11 College of Life Sciences, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, Shandong 252000, China
    12 Kunming Rosefinch Bird Research Institution, Kunming 650233, China
    13 School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
    14 Inner Mongolia Lao Niu Foundation, Hohhot 010021, China
    15 School of Forestry, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China


  • Received:2023-12-23 Revised:2024-07-23 Online:2024-11-20 Published:2024-11-23
  • Contact: Xiubo Yu

Abstract:

Aims: The Yellow River Basin is a key area for migratory birds and a biodiversity hotspot in China. The diversity of waterbirds plays a vital role in maintaining regional ecological balance of the basin.
Methods: In this study, we analyzed the composition and seasonal dynamics of waterbird populations in the Yellow River Basin from 2022 to 2023. Data was sourced from synchronous surveys and citizen science data contributions. Seasonal and regional characteristics of waterbird diversity were assessed using metrics such as species richness, the Shannon-Wiener diversity index, and the Pielou evenness index. Based on these findings, dynamic conservation strategies were proposed for the region’s waterbirds.
Results: From 2022 to 2023, the Yellow River Basin hosted 141 waterbird species across 9 orders and 20 families, with Charadriiformes and Anseriformes being the dominant groups. Waterbird diversity peaked during spring and autumn, highlighting the Yellow River Basin’s dual role as a breeding and wintering ground as well as a crucial stopover site for migratory birds. Species richness was highest in the lower reaches, while the middle reaches, source, and upper reaches exhibited greater diversity and evenness. Protected species were widely distributed, particularly in the middle and lower reaches during spring and autumn.
Conclusions: To ensure the effective protection of waterbirds in the Yellow River Basin, we recommend comprehensive conservation measures during the critical spring and autumn seasons. Dynamic and targeted protection strategies for key species and habitats, aligned with their seasonal needs. Integration of key waterbird habitats into broader migratory flyway action plans, supported by continuous monitoring efforts.

Key words: Waterfowl diversity, Seasonal and regional pattern, conservation strategy, Yellow River Basin.