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

doi:10.17520/biods.2023490

Abstract

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: waterbird diversity, seasonal and regional patterns, conservation strategies, Yellow River Basin

Chunxiao Wang, Zhengwang Zhang, Shaoxia Xia, Houlang Duan, Wen Wang, Yifei Jia, Lixun Zhang, Gang Feng, Yaqiao Yang, Tong Li, Changqing Ding, Chunping Wang, Baodong Yuan, Jinyu Lei, Yu Liu, Jianbin Shi, Keqi Lan, Qingqing Shi, Qing Xiao, Xiubo Yu. Seasonal and regional patterns and conservation strategies of waterbird diversity in the Yellow River Basin[J]. Biodiv Sci, 2024, 32(11): 23490.

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URL: https://www.biodiversity-science.net/EN/10.17520/biods.2023490

https://www.biodiversity-science.net/EN/Y2024/V32/I11/23490

Figures/Tables 4

Fig. 1 Study area overview map for waterbird diversity and conservation strategies in the Yellow River Basin

Fig. 2 Composition characteristics of waterbirds in the Yellow River Basin. (a) Number of waterbirds by order; (b) Proportional composition of waterbirds orders. Different colors represent the same orders as in (a), arranged from bottom to top as Charadriiformes, Anseriformes, Pelecaniformes, Gruiformes, Podicipediformes, and Suliformes.

Fig. 3 Biodiversity index of waterfowl in different regions and seasons in the Yellow River Basin

Fig. 4 Number and distribution of key protected species across regions and seasons in the Yellow River Basin. The red line represents the boundaries of subregions, dividing the basin into the source region (I), upper reaches (II), middle reaches (III), and lower reaches (IV).

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