Preprints
https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2024-4153
https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2024-4153
03 Feb 2025
 | 03 Feb 2025
Status: this preprint is open for discussion and under review for Hydrology and Earth System Sciences (HESS).

Mapping Groundwater-Dependent Ecosystems in the Urumqi River and Chai Wo-pu Basins Using Geospatial Technologies and Field Data

Zhihao Ye, Qiang Zhou, Mingxia Zheng, Xiaoyu Zhang, Xin Zhou, Liansheng He, Longhao Huang, and Rui Meng

Abstract. Groundwater-Dependent Ecosystems (GDEs) are widely distributed in arid and semi-arid regions and serve as critical ecological safety barriers. However, the precise identification and mapping of GDEs has long posed a challenge for researchers, as the integration of geospatial technologies and field measurement techniques has remained insufficient. This study selected the final year of a prolonged drought period and the current year for analysis. Key indicators, including vegetation cover (FVC), the difference between evapotranspiration and precipitation (ET-P), Terrain Wetness Index (TWI) and the vegetation groundwater uptake index (VGUI), were employed. The K-means clustering algorithm was applied for classification, and spatial overlay analysis was performed in the Urumqi River and Chai Wo-pu Basin in Xinjiang, China, to assess the spatial distribution and temporal variations of GDEs. Additionally, the results were validated through the integration of wetland distribution and field investigations. The findings indicate that areas classified as "likely" or "very likely" GDEs are predominantly concentrated around Dongdao Haizi, Chai Wo-pu Lake, salt lakes, and adjacent regions, covering 45.4 % of the potential rea. Over time, the area classified as "unlikely" and "highly unlikely" for GDEs shows an increasing trend. By introducing field data of the VGUI, the study eliminates the interference from factors such as human irrigation in the identification of GDEs in typical areas, achieving refined mapping. This work provides valuable insights for the precise identification of GDEs in arid and semi-arid regions.

Publisher's note: Copernicus Publications remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims made in the text, published maps, institutional affiliations, or any other geographical representation in this preprint. The responsibility to include appropriate place names lies with the authors.
Share
Zhihao Ye, Qiang Zhou, Mingxia Zheng, Xiaoyu Zhang, Xin Zhou, Liansheng He, Longhao Huang, and Rui Meng

Status: open (until 17 Mar 2025)

Comment types: AC – author | RC – referee | CC – community | EC – editor | CEC – chief editor | : Report abuse
Zhihao Ye, Qiang Zhou, Mingxia Zheng, Xiaoyu Zhang, Xin Zhou, Liansheng He, Longhao Huang, and Rui Meng
Zhihao Ye, Qiang Zhou, Mingxia Zheng, Xiaoyu Zhang, Xin Zhou, Liansheng He, Longhao Huang, and Rui Meng

Viewed

Total article views: 45 (including HTML, PDF, and XML)
HTML PDF XML Total Supplement BibTeX EndNote
40 3 2 45 7 0 0
  • HTML: 40
  • PDF: 3
  • XML: 2
  • Total: 45
  • Supplement: 7
  • BibTeX: 0
  • EndNote: 0
Views and downloads (calculated since 03 Feb 2025)
Cumulative views and downloads (calculated since 03 Feb 2025)

Viewed (geographical distribution)

Total article views: 39 (including HTML, PDF, and XML) Thereof 39 with geography defined and 0 with unknown origin.
Country # Views %
  • 1
1
 
 
 
 
Latest update: 06 Feb 2025
Download
Short summary
This study maps groundwater-dependent ecosystems in the Urumqi River and Chai Wo-pu Basins using satellite data and field observations. It offers a more accurate method for identifying these vital ecosystems, which are key to local biodiversity, especially in arid regions. The findings highlight areas most reliant on groundwater, providing valuable insights for water resource management and conservation in drought-prone areas.
Share