rss_2.0Journal of Landscape Ecology FeedSciendo RSS Feed for Journal of Landscape Ecologyhttps://sciendo.com/journal/JLECOLhttps://www.sciendo.comJournal of Landscape Ecology Feedhttps://sciendo-parsed.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/647219a0215d2f6c89dbbfb3/cover-image.jpghttps://sciendo.com/journal/JLECOL140216Non-Timber Forest Products and Their Income Contributions to Rural Households in Kalu District, Northeast Ethiopiahttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2025-0002<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) are crucial for rural livelihoods either for subsistence or income generation. However, the natural vegetation and forests in the study area have been degraded by human impacts leading to habitat loss. Therefore it is essential to study and document evidence about NTFPs and their value in the study area. The main aim of this study is to assess non-timber forest products and their income contributions in Kalu District, Northeast Ethiopia. Three Kebeles were purposively selected based on NTFP availability, household reliance on NTFP collection and time. A total of 149 sample household respondents were selected using simple random sampling methods from the three Kebeles (Ancharo, Keteteya, and Gedero) in proportionate allocations. Data were collected through key informant interviews, focus group discussions, direct observations and structured and semi-structured household interviews. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The study identified six major types of NTFPs used by households, namely: energy sources (fuel-wood and charcoal), medicinal plants, household utensils, wild edibles, wild spices, and fodders. The most important NTFPs included honey, fuel wood, charcoal and others (household utensils, edible fruits), contributing 39 %, 31 %, 25 %, and 5 % of forest income, respectively. NTFPs contributed 13.3 % of the total annual household income in the study area. The findings of this study revealed that incomes derived from NTFPs in the study area were relatively low compared to other sources of income. Therefore, polices and strategies aimed at improving the well-being of the local people should pay attention to the contribution of NTFPs to their livelihoods.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2025-00022025-02-02T00:00:00.000+00:00Iran’s Dam Waterbodies: A 10-Year Trend Analysis (2013–2023)https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2025-0006<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Previous studies have shown instances where aquatic ecosystems in Iran have experienced water loss even in the absence of upstream dams, while other ecosystems with upstream dams did not show significant declines in water levels. Thus, attributing the drying of these ecosystems solely to climate change in the watershed is not definitive, especially when water levels behind dams have increased while wetlands’ water volumes decreased due to water diversion. This complexity underscores the challenge of linking the decline of aquatic ecosystems exclusively to climate change, as reduced rainfall would naturally lead to decreased water levels behind dams as well. This study addresses this complex issue by analyzing 60 water bodies behind dams across various regions of Iran from 2013 to 2023, using Landsat 8 satellite images and the AWEIsh water index. We employed linear regression to detect surface change trends during this period. Our findings revealed statistically significant (P-value &lt; 0.05) trends in 13 out of the 60 water bodies, with four showing an increasing trend in water levels, indicating diverse precipitation patterns across Iran rather than a uniform decline. Among these, nine dams with significant trends experienced decreased water levels, reflecting reduced upstream rainfall in their watersheds over the past decade. This supports existing research highlighting climate change’s impact on Iran’s water resources. Despite highlighting the impact of declining precipitation and increasing temperatures in certain regions, our study also reveals that certain areas in Iran have not faced such severe conditions. In fact, some regions have seen a notable increase in dam water levels over the past decade. This study emphasizes the importance of an impartial assessment of Iran’s water reserves, free from preconceived notions from previous studies. Such an objective evaluation is crucial for effective management of Iran’s water resources.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2025-00062025-02-02T00:00:00.000+00:00Integrated Geospatial Characterization of Geomorphological and Structural Features in Parts of Enugu, Southeastern Nigeria: Implications for Regional Geology and Land Usehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2025-0003<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>This study explores the spatial distribution of land cover and geomorphological features in Enugu East, North, and South LGAs, using Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) classification, slope analysis, drainage density, and lineament density. To analyze the current land use patterns, slope characteristics, drainage density, and lineament density in Enugu, and assess their implications for regional urbanisation and environmental management. LULC classification was performed using remote sensing data to categorize land cover into built-up areas, rangelands, water bodies, trees, crops, and other types. Slope analysis categorized terrain into five slope classes. Drainage density was assessed to determine the density of drainage networks. Lineament density analysis identified structural features affecting ground stability. Built-up areas and rangelands dominate the land cover, while agricultural areas are minimal. Slope analysis reveals a predominance of gentle slopes suitable for urbanisation, with smaller areas of steep slopes posing erosion risks. Drainage density varies, with moderate density areas showing suitable conditions for agriculture and urbanisation, and high-density areas prone to erosion and flooding. Lineament density indicates mostly stable ground with high potential for groundwater exploration in fractured regions. The dominance of built-up areas reflects significant urban expansion, while rangelands highlight non-intensive land uses. Steep slopes and high drainage densities present challenges for sustainable urbanisation and require targeted management strategies. Areas with high lineament densities offer potential for groundwater resources but demand careful consideration for construction. The study provides essential insights into land use and geomorphological factors, underscoring the need for integrated planning to balance urban growth with environmental sustainability. Proper management of slope, drainage, and lineament factors is vital for minimizing risks and optimizing land use. This comprehensive analysis integrates multiple geospatial and geomorphological features to offer a holistic understanding of land use dynamics and development constraints in Enugu Local Government Areas (LGAs), providing a basis for informed decision-making in regional planning.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2025-00032025-02-02T00:00:00.000+00:00Impact of Land Use Land Cover Changes on Ecosystem Service Values: Implication for Landscape Managementhttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2025-0004<abstract><title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Globally growing human activity has had an enormous effect on natural ecosystems and the services they provide. Estimating the effects of land use and land cover (LULC) on ecosystem service values (ESVs) is crucial for determining how land use changes affect human well-being. To ensure long-term sustainability of the ecosystems, considering the trade-offs and synergies between ecosystem services, tracking changes in ecosystem services, and implementing effective land use planning and conservation strategies, we can ensure the long-term sustainability. This study aimed to find out how ESV in the Borkena watershed of the Awash basin was impacted by LULC changes during the last three decades (1993–2023). The study quantifies the spatiotemporal variation of ESV of the Borkena watershed in relation with LULC changes. Six LULC types were identified using supervised image classification following maximum likelihood method in ArcGIS 10.8 environment. The ESV was estimated following benefit transfer methods based on the coefficients published by Costanza and his team in 2014. The results demonstrated that between 1993 and 2023, there was a continuous increase in the amount of land under cultivation and built-up area, as well as a decrease in the amount of forest and shrub land. The study shown that the significant expansion of cultivated land and built-up area and decreasing of forest and shrub land cover during 1993-2023 periods, has reduced the total ESV from US$ 640.74 in 1993 to US $603.52 in 2003 and US $607.05 in 2013 and US $625.45 in 2023. It is urgently necessary to take action to improve the sustainability of ecosystem service value at the landscape level with proper land management methods in light of the decline in both the total and individual ESV in the study area and period. The results of this study could be useful to raise public awareness of the state of ESV, landscape management and support policy-making processes.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2025-00042024-12-25T00:00:00.000+00:00Investigating Thermal Stability in Hyderabad City, Indiahttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2025-0005<abstract><title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Thermal environment and land use status are the two controlling factors for determining the ecological health of any urban area. The study aims to investigates the stability of the relationship between land surface temperature with normalized difference built-up index in Hyderabad City, India using eight Landsat 8 data of the summer season in 2023. The study applies Pearson’s method for determining the correlation coefficient of this relationship. The results represent a consistent nature of land surface temperature and normalized difference built-up index values in this summer season as the range of the mean (0.08 for normalized difference built-up index and 6.78 <sup>o</sup>C for land surface temperature) and standard deviation (0.02 for normalized difference built-up index and 0.79 for land surface temperature) values of land surface temperature and normalized difference built-up index are significantly low. Land surface temperature and normalized difference built-up index values are very stable (correlation coefficient = &gt; 0.63 for eight land surface temperature images and correlation coefficient = &gt; 0.50 for eight normalized difference built-up index images). Moreover, normalized difference built-up index also built a stable strong positive relationship (average correlation coefficient =0.64) with land surface temperature. The summer season affects the vegetation life of the city and influences the relationship between land surface temperature and normalized difference built-up index. Built-up surface leads to an increase in the value of land surface temperature and also regulates the values of normalized difference built-up index. The study is useful for stable urban environmental planning.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2025-00052024-12-25T00:00:00.000+00:00Urban Expansion and its Influence on Land Surface Temperature: A Case Study of Patna City, Indiahttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2025-0001<abstract><title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Rapid urbanization in developing countries has significant implications for local climate and environmental conditions. This study examines land use/land cover (LULC) changes and their impact on land surface temperature (LST) in Patna, India from 1988 to 2022 using Landsat imagery and geospatial techniques. Rapid urbanization in developing cities can significantly alter local climate, but the dynamics in Patna were not well understood. Using supervised classification and thermal band analysis, the research quantified LULC transformations and LST changes over 34 years. Results show dramatic urban expansion, with built-up area increasing from 38 % to 80 % of the total area, while vegetation cover decreased from 44 % to just 7 %. These changes corresponded with an overall increase in LST, with maximum temperatures rising by 1.06°C and minimum temperatures by 6°C. Strong correlations were found between LST and spectral indices like NDVI (negative) and NDBI (positive). The study reveals accelerated urban growth and temperature increases, especially after 2005, highlighting the need for sustainable urban planning strategies to mitigate heat island effects and improve thermal comfort in Patna. This research provides valuable baseline data for understanding urbanization impacts on local climate in rapidly growing Indian cities.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2025-00012024-12-25T00:00:00.000+00:00Assessing Landscape Fragmentation Dynamics with Fourier Transformshttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-0020<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Quantifying landscape fragmentation is crucial for understanding its impact on biodiversity. Within landscape ecology, there is an ongoing effort to create metrics that systematically characterize landscape patterns and predict their effects on various species. In this study, we utilized Fourier transforms to measure landscape fragmentation in urban and heterogeneous landscapes over periods of 24 and 12 years, respectively. Analyzing Landsat images from 1986, 1999, and 2010, we focused on the first principal component (PC1) to evaluate changes in fragmentation over time. Our analysis revealed a significant increase in fragmentation in urban areas from 1986 to 2010, with a particularly noticeable rise between 1999 and 2010. Specifically, the average Fourier spectrum decreased slightly from 16.0 to 15.9 throughout the study period, indicating increased fragmentation at both urban and landscape levels. The sensitivity analysis further showed that removing 6,000 cells from the original image caused the mean Fourier spectrum to drop from 16.0 to 15.5, demonstrating the method’s effectiveness in detecting subtle land cover changes. Our findings demonstrated that Fourier analysis effectively detects subtle landscape changes, particularly in larger study areas and over longer time intervals. However, it lacks detailed information on specific types or quantities of altered land cover. To address this limitation, integrating Fourier analysis with land cover classification datasets could enhance understanding of landscape dynamics and support more informed conservation and management decisions.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-00202024-11-23T00:00:00.000+00:00Challenges and Strategies in Elephant Conservation: A Comprehensive Review of Land Use Impact and Management Approaches in Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, Indiahttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-0019<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>The Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, a critical habitat for elephant conservation in the Dalma Landscape, is increasingly experiencing the multifaceted impacts of climate change. This study reviews secondary literature to examine the consequences of Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) changes on elephant populations, emphasizing the exacerbating effects of climate-induced alterations. The sanctuary faces challenges like habitat degradation and fragmentation, which impede wildlife movement and intensify human-wildlife conflicts, particularly with elephants. These issues are now compounded by climate change, which is altering vegetation patterns, water availability, and seasonal behaviours of wildlife, further straining the delicate balance of this ecosystem. This paper methodically dissects the literature, highlighting how climate change interplays with existing environmental stressors, affecting the conservation strategies and viability of elephant corridors. The review also considers management strategies, underscoring the need for adaptive measures that address the dual challenges of habitat degradation and climate change. By broadening the scope to include the climate change dimension, this research not only underscores the researcher’s comprehensive understanding of the sanctuary’s ecological challenges but also aligns the study with global environmental concerns, making it relevant in the context of contemporary wildlife conservation efforts. Through a structured approach, the paper is divided into sections that explore the sanctuary’s ecological significance, the factors impacting elephant populations with a focus on climate change, and methods for studying human-elephant conflicts in the context of a changing climate. This comprehensive analysis aims to identify research gaps, propose adaptive conservation strategies, and contribute to the broader understanding of how climate change is reshaping wildlife conservation paradigms.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-00192024-11-23T00:00:00.000+00:00Improving Biomass Estimation in Ethiopian Moist Afromontane Forest Through Volume Modelhttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-0018<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Forest biomass is estimated using a volume model, wood basic density (wbd), and biomass expansion factor (BEF). However, in Ethiopia, there is a shortage of volume models, hence the volume estimation was carried out using a generic model. As a result, estimation may be subject to bias when applied in areas outside its original geographic range of development. Consequently, there is a need for further research and data collection to enhance the accuracy and reliability of these equations. This study aims to develop species-specific volume models, biomass expansion factors, wood basic densities, and form factors for selected tree species in the moist evergreen Afromontane Forest of Ethiopia. A total of 59 trees were harvested for volume model, BEF, and wbd development. Nonlinear regression was employed to develop the models, and the developed models were compared with previously established models using goodness-of-fit measures. For the volume model, diameter at breast height explained 89 % - 99 % of the volume variation. Comparison with previously developed models indicates that the currently developed model yields the least error. The mean BEF for the study species was 1.58, while the mean wood basic density for all tree species was 0.58 g/cm3. The study demonstrated that species-specific volume models reduce errors in the estimation of forest volume and biomass.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-00182024-11-23T00:00:00.000+00:00How to Measure Evapotranspiration in Landscape-Ecological Studies? Overview of Concepts and Methodshttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-0017<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Evapotranspiration (ET) is a key component of the hydrological cycle, encompassing evaporation processes from soil and water surfaces and plant transpiration (Sun <italic>et al</italic>., 2017). Accurate estimation of ET is vital for effective water resource management, agricultural planning, and environmental monitoring (Gowda <italic>et al</italic>., 2008). However, the complex interactions between land surface conditions, vegetation, and atmospheric factors make direct measurement of ET challenging, leading to the development of various estimation methods. Remote sensing has become a widely used approach for estimating ET over large areas because it provides spatially comprehensive data (Xiao <italic>et al</italic>., 2024). Methods like the Surface Energy Balance Algorithm for Land and the Surface Energy Balance System utilise satellite-derived thermal imagery and meteorological inputs to calculate ET by analysing the energy exchanges between the land surface and the atmosphere. These methods are advantageous for their broad spatial coverage, making them particularly useful for regional to global scale studies. However, they require careful calibration and validation, and their accuracy can be affected by the spatial resolution of the satellite data and the quality of meteorological inputs. In addition to remote sensing, several other ET estimation methods are commonly employed.</p> <p>The Penman-Monteith equation is one of the most widely accepted methods, integrating meteorological data—such as air temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation— with biophysical properties of vegetation to estimate ET. This method has been validated extensively, making it a standard reference in ET studies. Empirical methods like the Hargreaves-Samani equation provide simpler alternatives that require fewer data inputs, making them suitable for regions with limited meteorological information but with a trade-off in accuracy. Direct measurement techniques offer highly accurate ET data, including lysimeters and eddy covariance systems. Lysimeters measure water loss directly from a soil column, while eddy covariance systems assess the exchange of water vapour and energy between the surface and the atmosphere. Despite their precision, these methods are limited by high costs, maintenance requirements, and their applicability to small-scale, homogeneous areas (Howell, 2005). Choosing the appropriate ET estimation method depends on the scale of the study, data availability, and the specific application. Remote sensing and models like Penman-Monteith offer scalability and broad applicability, while direct measurements provide precise data at localised scales. Integrating these methods can improve the reliability of ET estimates, enhance water resource management, and aid in climate adaptation efforts.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-00172024-11-23T00:00:00.000+00:00Woody Species Composition, Structure, and Diversity of Parkland and Coffee-Based Agroforestry Systems, Habro District, Eastern Ethiopiahttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-0015<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Agroforestry practices in eastern Ethiopia are renowned for their multifunctional landscapes, contributing significantly to biodiversity conservation and enhancement. However, there is a lack of comprehensive studies on the diversity and structure of woody species within coffee-based and parkland agroforestry systems documented in a single study. This research aimed to evaluate the composition, diversity, and structure of woody species in these agroforestry systems. Conducted in the Habro district of eastern Ethiopia, the study involved randomly selecting sixteen plots for each agroforestry system. Inventory assessments of woody species were carried out using 40×40 and 20 m*20-meter plots for parkland and coffee-based systems respectively, and 5×5-meter plots for coffee shrubs. For trees with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of ≥2.5 cm, measurements of tree heights were taken. The study computed basal area, stem density, diameter, and height class distribution to characterize the structure of woody communities, and species diversity was also assessed. The findings revealed a total of 57 woody species across 31 families. Specifically, 38 woody species were recorded in parkland agroforestry, while 43 species were found in coffee-based agroforestry systems. Significant differences were observed in species diversity indices and structural parameters between the two agroforestry systems. The Shannon diversity index and richness were higher in coffee-based agroforestry compared to parkland systems. Additionally, the density and basal area of woody species were greater in coffee-based systems than in parkland agroforestry. Overall, both agroforestry systems were found to conserve a significant number of woody species, highlighting their potential to contribute to biodiversity conservation and informing future agroforestry management strategies in national programs.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-00152024-11-23T00:00:00.000+00:00Geospatial Approach for Quantitative Analysis and Implications of Drainage Morphometry of the Antsokia, Ethiopiahttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-0016<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>This study employed remote sensing data, geographic information systems, and statistical methods to analyze the morphometric features of the Antsokia watershed and its sub-watersheds. It assessed drainage network, watershed geometry, drainage texture, and relief characteristics. The Antsokia watershed is drained mainly by a sixth-order river with a dendritic pattern. The mean bifurcation ratio (Rb) was 3.9, indicating a typical branching pattern, while sub-watersheds showed higher Rb values (&gt;5), suggesting steep terrain. The longest flow path is 42.5 km, marked by knickpoints due to lithological changes and major faults. The watershed’s elongated shape indicates longer peak flows, aiding flood management. Drainage texture analysis revealed fine drainage, implying soft rock prone to erosion prevails. Most of the watershed comprises high relief and steep slopes (78 %), including hills, breaks, and low mountains. The S-shaped hypsometric curve with a hypsometric integral of 0.4 suggests the watershed is in a mature stage of geomorphic evolution and equilibrium. Sub-watershed morphometric parameters varied spatially, categorized into low, moderate, and high clusters. Overall, this study enhances understanding of Antsokia watershed’s characteristics, aiding in sustainable resource management and decision-making.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-00162024-11-23T00:00:00.000+00:00Habitat Suitability Modelling of White-Bellied Pangolin () in Oluwa Forest Reserve, Ondo State, Nigeriahttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-0013<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Most endangered species face a significant threat from habitat loss. The destruction and degradation of natural tropical forest across West Africa has likely been the biggest threat to White-bellied Pangolin and has contributed to their decline as they depend on the habitat for different resources like food, water, and shelter. The current study investigated the habitat suitability of white-bellied pangolins in Oluwa Forest Reserve. The presence data of White-bellied pangolin was collected by taking the Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates of the indirect signs observed. These data, along with the 19 bioclimatic variables, slopes, soil PH, soil texture, distance to rivers, distance to roads, and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), were used to generate habitat suitability maps using MaxEnt software. The MaxEnt analysis showed that out of 781 km<sup>2</sup> available for White bellied Pangolin during dry season, 338 km<sup>2</sup> was highly suitable, 209 km<sup>2</sup> was suitable, 126 km<sup>2</sup> was moderately suitable, 65 km<sup>2</sup> was less suitable and 44 km<sup>2</sup> was not suitable. During the wet season 235 km<sup>2</sup> was highly suitable, 225 km<sup>2</sup> was suitable, 164 km<sup>2</sup> was moderately suitable, 100 km<sup>2</sup> was less suitable and 57 km<sup>2</sup> was not suitable habitat. The jackknife test of variable contribution revealed that during the dry season, NDVI was the most important predictor variable as measured by the gain produced by a one-variable model, followed by aspects such as distance to the river, slope, distance to the road, and temperature seasonality. During the wet season, the jackknife-cross-validation test showed the highest gain when NDVI was used in isolation. Aspects were found to be the second most important predictor variable as measured by the gain produced by a one-variable model, followed by distance to the road, slope, elevation, and the mean temperature of the wettest quarter.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-00132024-09-26T00:00:00.000+00:00Agroforestry Contribution to Native Woody Species Conservation, Carbon Sequestration, and Livelihood Benefits in Ethiopia: A Systematic Reviewhttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-0012<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>The conservation of endangered native species and climate change are currently the two most pressing environmental problems on the planet. Therefore, the general objective of the review was to synthesize evidence of the contributions of agroforestry systems to the conservation of native species, carbon sequestration, and livelihood benefits in Ethiopia. A total of 104 publications from 2000 to 2024 publication years were used to provide available evidence and research gaps on agroforestry contribution to native species conservation (n=21), carbon sequestration (n=33), and livelihood benefits (n=35) in Ethiopia. Furthermore, 38 papers from other parts of the world were used to support ideas and relevant evidence linked to the title. The review’s findings confirm that agroforestry can serve as in-situ conservation for endangered native species including <italic>Cordia africana Lam., Hagenia abyssinica (Bruce) J.F. Gmel., Acacia abyssinica Hochst. ex Benth</italic>, <italic>Croton macrostachyus Hochst. ex Delile, Ficus sur Forssk and Faidherbia albida (Delile) A. Chev</italic>. The review systematic review indicated that agroforestry systems store an average of 40.04 ± 10.4 Mg C ha <sup>−1</sup> in biomass and 68.9 ± 9.9 Mg C ha<sup>−1</sup> in soil in Ethiopia. Hence, the above-ground carbon was highest for coffee-based agroforestry (17.12 ± 6.3 Mg ha<sup>−1</sup>) followed by homegarden (16.6 ± 3.2 3 Mg ha<sup>−1</sup>) and woodlot (7.1 ± 1.09 Mg ha<sup>−1</sup>). Fuelwood, food, fodder, income, timber, fruits, and poles for construction were the main benefits of livelihood; which have been reported in 37, 30, 26, 25, 23, and 20,18 published articles, respectively. Empirical studies show that an agroforestry system, which can significantly reduce the vulnerabilities of households and store a large amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, is an important strategy for climate adaptation and mitigation. Moreover, further scientific research on agroforestry on the sustainability of agroforestry is needed from responsible bodies in Ethiopia.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-00122024-09-26T00:00:00.000+00:00A Critical Review of India’s Latest Groundwater Policy: Impacts on Groundwater Resource Planning and Managementhttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-0010<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Groundwater policy is widely considered an essential element for building effective groundwater use and carrying out the country’s groundwater resources planning and management. This review first of its kind which gives extensive information about groundwater policy at the national and state level in India. This review focuses on the new national-level groundwater policy of India and discusses the salient features of groundwater policy for selected countries. Based on the ongoing challenges of groundwater issues in India, the benefits and drawbacks are described, making the future decision-making process easier and more efficient when contemplating regulation and known groundwater challenges. Considering the new provisions and the ongoing challenges, this paper discusses gaps in policy and its effects on the overall sustainability of groundwater resources. Our findings provide insight into the new national-level groundwater policy and outline limitations in areas such as the agricultural sector, land subsidence, cross-border conditions, climate change, information dissemination, groundwater and surface water connectivity, etc. that need urgent attention.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-00102024-09-26T00:00:00.000+00:00Quantifying the Impact of the Construction of a National Highway on Landscape Continuity and Fragmentation Over Twenty Years – A Comparison of Three Spatial Approacheshttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-0011<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Construction and paving of road infrastructures is on the rise globally. Roads have many negative impacts on the environment, including changes and damages to landscape connectivity, fragmentation and disrupting of ecological corridors, loss of habitats, air pollution, noise pollution and light pollution . Here we aimed to examine the impacts of the construction of a major road (national Highway 6 in Israel, 188 km long) on landscape fragmentation. To this end we mapped the land cover at three-time steps: 1997 (before the construction of the road began), 2009 and 2019, quantifying both patch-based metrics (using Frgastats), the continuous metrics of landscape connectivity (using Circuitscape) and landscape continuity, adapting a before-after-control-impact methodology. Analyzing changes in those metrics for sections of the road based on their time of construction and on the distance from the highway, we found that most changes took place within a distance of up to 1 km from the new highway, starting after road construction began. We also found that the patch-based metrics and the continuous metrics were weakly correlated. We conclude that each of those different approaches has its merits and limitations, that they are complementary and that jointly they provide us with better understanding of landscape changes.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-00112024-09-26T00:00:00.000+00:00Natural Processes in the Area of the Former Kakhovske Reservoir After the Destruction of the Kakhovka HPPhttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-0014<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>The results of the studies devoted to the consequences of the Kakhovka dam destruction on June 6, 2023 in the course of the Russia-Ukraine war are presented. After the accident, the Kakhovske reservoir, which was the largest by volume on the Dnipro River, practically disappeared. It has turned into the network of river branches and lakes that do not compare with the former reservoir.</p> <p>Currently, the conditions on the territory of the former reservoir have approached those observed in natural conditions. To some extent, they depend on the water discharge of the Dnipro River, more exactly, on the water discharge of the Dnipro HPP located upstream. In the conditions of large water runoff, the large part of the former Kakhovske reservoir is covered with water.</p> <p>An unusual natural phenomenon of the area of the former reservoir is very rapid overgrowth, primarily by willow. A year after the accident, its height in places which is rich in organic sediments exceeded 4 meters. At the same time, the size of the trees on the bottom covered by sands is much smaller. Today, a large area of the former reservoir looks like a dense forest.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-00142024-09-26T00:00:00.000+00:00Natural Conditions for Heliophilous Tree-Species Following Forest Dieback in Temperate Zone After Periglacial Habitatshttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-0009<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>Widespread forest dieback following a series of exceptionally dry seasons has made restoration by relic heliophilous tree-species uncertain. Using logistic regression, we identified conditions suitable for relic Norway spruce (<italic>Picea abies</italic> /L./Karst.), Scots pine (<italic>Pinus sylvestris</italic> L.), European larch (<italic>Larix decidua</italic> Mill.), birches (<italic>Betula</italic> sp.), poplars (<italic>Populus</italic> sp.) and willows (<italic>Salix</italic> sp.) by comparing the relief and bedrock under stands that died abruptly between 2018 and 2020 at temperate zone after periglacial habitats of the Czech Republic. Extent of forest dieback was determined through automated object analysis on the basis of vectorised Planet Scope and Sentinel-2 satellite images. The object analysis consisted of mainly spruce stands and dieback indicated by a deep inter-year decrease in the vegetation indices. The overall occurrence of tree-species in pure or mixed stands was determined from a polygon geodatabase of forest management plans, while growth condition types were determined by overlaying biogeographically subdivided polygons. Dead forests provided suitable conditions for mixed conifer, birch, and poplar stands on 64.4 % of the greywackes, acid metamorphites, and waterlogged sediments on broken plateaus, depressions, and slopes. In comparison, pure stands of relic tree-species can cover 35.6 % of dead forest area. Restoration of mixed forests differenting over a range of growth conditions seems to be suitable for adaptation to climate change impacts.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-00092024-09-26T00:00:00.000+00:00The Impact of the Kakhovka Dam Destruction on the Water Temperature in the Lower Reaches of the Dnipro River and the Former Kakhovske Reservoirhttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-0008<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>The results of the studies devoted to the consequences of the Kakhovka dam destruction and the empting of the Kakhovske reservoir are presented. The water regime of the lower reaches of the Dnipro River was studied, in particular, the water temperature. The remote sensing data on spatial features of water temperature are given. Significant changes in water temperature are shown both in the lower reaches of the Dnipro River and in the former Kakhovske reservoir. In the first days after the destruction of the dam, due to the mixing, the surface water temperature at the mouth of the Dnipro River dropped significantly. Then the water temperature in the lower reaches of the river approached to that one observed before the destruction. In turn, the former Kakhovske reservoir became a network of river branches and lakes that cannot be compared with the former reservoir. The Dniprovske Reservoir, located upstream, affects the water temperature of this territory, especially the largest branch.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-00082024-09-26T00:00:00.000+00:00Measuring Urban Expansion and Land Use/Land Cover Changes Using Remote Sensing and Landscape Metrics: A Case of Rewari City, Indiahttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-0007<abstract> <title style='display:none'>Abstract</title> <p>The industrial and economic development has initiated the rapid growth of small and medium-sized towns in India. Rewari City, a part of the National Capital Region of India, is undergoing rapid urban expansion. This study analyzes the process of urban expansion in Rewari city, its effect on land use &amp; land cover dynamics and landscape spatial patterns. The methodology of the study is reliant on open-source Landsat satellite data, GIS-based unsupervised classification, and spatial metrics analysis. The city expansion has been analyzed for a period of 31 years, from 1989 to 2020, and population growth has been studied since 1901. Within the study period, built-up area increased by 704%, with an annual expansion rate of 12.8 %. The other land cover classes, such as agriculture land, vegetation, barren land, and water bodies shrank in size over the years. Between 1989 and 2020, 69.4 % of the increase in built up area came at the expense of vegetation and agricultural land. It was also found that per capita land consumption rate increased significantly from 0.0024 to 0.0084, hinting towards dispersed and low-density development. Built-up land had a growth rate nearly 5 times higher than population, indicating urban sprawl. An evaluation of different landscape metrics revealed that the landscape of Rewari has lost land use diversity. The findings of this study offer information about the present state of urban growth. It also serves as a valuable resource for formulating comprehensive planning and development policies, ensuring the promotion of sustainable urban development.</p> </abstract>ARTICLEtruehttps://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jlecol-2024-00072024-05-22T00:00:00.000+00:00en-us-1