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Simple patchy-based simulators used to explore pondscape systematic dynamics.
Wei-Ta Fang1, Jui-Yu Chou2, Shiau-Yun Lu3
1Graduate Institute of Environmental Education, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.
Plos One
|January 28, 2014
Summary
Farm pond loss in Taiwan is significant, with many disappearing between 1926-1960. Pond perimeter and shape influence both pond loss and creation, impacting the unique landscape.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Geography
- Ecology
Background:
- Farm ponds in Taoyuan County, Taiwan, have experienced substantial disappearance since the 1920s.
- Between 1926 and 1960, 37% of farm ponds were lost, with only 11% new ponds created in a 757 km² area.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify farm pond loss rates in Taoyuan County, Taiwan.
- To identify the intrinsic and external driving forces behind changes in the pondscape.
Main Methods:
- Geographic Information System (GIS) for spatial analysis.
- Logistic stepwise regression model to analyze relationships between pond characteristics and loss rates.
- Analysis of intrinsic factors (patch size, perimeter, shape) and external factors (proximity to roads, rivers, canals).
Main Results:
- Pond perimeter was identified as a key intrinsic factor influencing pond loss.
- A larger perimeter increases the likelihood of pond loss but also correlates with new pond creation.
- Newly created ponds often exhibit circular shapes, indicated by a lower mean pond-patch fractal dimension (MPFD).
Conclusions:
- Farm pond dynamics are driven by intrinsic factors like perimeter and shape.
- Understanding these factors is crucial for monitoring and protecting unique pond landscapes.
- The developed methodology can aid in managing patch-loss issues using simulators.
