Coupling Landscape Patterns and Ecological Processes - Landscape Ecology for Sustainable Environment and Culture - page 7

and ecological processes at large scales, systematic analysis and modeling approa-
ches can make up the deficiencies of measurements and experiments, i.e., lack of
accessibility, low replication and continuity.
1.2.2.2 Coupling Based on Systematic Analysis and Model Simulation
At larger scales, the landscape patterns and ecological processes involve multiple
complex factors of ecological, socioeconomic and cultural categories. Two
problems need to be solved in advance: (1) the location and magnitude of land-
scape pattern variation, and (2) the ecological effects of landscape pattern varia-
tion. Models are robust in revealing the underlying mechanisms and supporting
scenario simulations at larger scales (Xu et al. 2010 ). So far, various types of
models have been developed in exploring landscape pattern, e.g., systematic,
statistical, cellular automata, and agent-based models. As single models are limited
in coupling landscape patterns and ecological processes at larger scales, it is
necessary to integrate multiple models by modularization, with due consideration
of hierarchical structures. Model integration of landscape patterns and ecological
processes have developed very rapidly, such as HILLS (Hesse Integrated Land Use
Simulator; Schaldach and Alcamo 2006 ), PLM (Patuxent Landscape Unit Model;
Binder et al. 2003 ; Costanza et al. 2002 ; Voinov et al. 1999 ), LANDIS (Land
Information System; He et al. 1999 ), CLUE (Conversion of Land Use and its
Effects) and TESim (Terrestrial Ecosystem Simulator Model; Xu et al. 2009 ).
The relationship between landscape patterns and hydrological processes is a key
component in landscape ecology. Various models have been used widely to assess
the effects of landscape patterns on hydrological processes. Brath et al. ( 2006 )
examined the effect of land use change caused by human activities on the fre-
quency of floods in the Samoggia River basin in Italy from 1955 to 1992. Niehoff
et al. ( 2002 ) developed land use change scenarios based on the LUCK (Land use
Change Modeling Kit) model, and simulated flood events using a modified version
of the hydrological physical model of WaSiM-ETH (Water Flow and Balance
Simulation Model-Evapotransporation Hydrology). Savary et al. ( 2009 ) simulated
the influence of land cover change on the water yield and runoff of the Chaudière
River Basin in Canada over the last 30 years, and concluded that land cover
change was a key factor in hydrological processes. The hydrological models also
have been used in assessing the effects of geology, climate, human factors, and
glaciation on river sediment transfer in the offshore watershed (Syvitski and
Milliman 2007 ). On the other hand, hydrological processes also drive landscape
pattern changes. For instance, soil erosion can change the landscape pattern by
altering micro-topography, soil layer depth, and even land use policies (Bakker
et al. 2005 ; Jimenéz-Hornero et al. 2009 ). Some hydrological processes can exert
effects on biological processes or geochemical cycles by altering landscape pat-
terns, e.g., soil erosion can influence carbon accumulation (Liu et al. 2003 ) and
crop yield (Lu and Stocking 2000 ).