Ecological restoration approaches for degraded muddy coasts: Recommendations and practice

Abstract

Scientific selection of an ecological restoration approach from among the three common approaches: natural restoration, assisted restoration, and ecological reconstruction is the first step to successful ecological restoration. This study chose the appropriate ecological restoration approach for the study area from the following two perspectives. The threshold effect considers the degree of damage to the muddy coast and makes an estimate of its resilience. The development needs of the coastal zone consider the needs of muddy coasts for ecological protection, safety, and culture and aesthetics; development planning aims to determine the priority of these three needs. This study also assessed common technical measures for ecological restoration of muddy coasts and analyzed the applicability and advantages and disadvantages of each perspective to assist in the selection of specific ecological restoration measures suited to local conditions. The target area for ecological restoration was the muddy coastal area around Yundanmen Island, Sansha Bay, Ningde City, China, which had been degraded by reclamation and aquaculture. Based on conceptual models for selection, ecological restoration approaches for the study area were determined, technical measures were selected, and the plan was developed and implemented. We analyzed the initial effects of ecological restoration on birds, vegetation, and benthic organisms to verify the effectiveness of the chosen ecological restoration approach. This study provides scientific support for rationally planning the ecological restoration of muddy coasts and a reference for the selection of other coastal ecological restoration approaches and technical measures.

Keywords

• Assisted restoration
• Natural restoration
• Ecological reconstruction
• Development needs
• Effectiveness evaluation