Changes in vegetation cover and landscape fragmentation in the Panidihing Bird Sanctuary, India

Abstract

Vegetation cover and its arrangement in terms of landscape fragmentation serve as good metrics of ecosystem health. The current study assesses changes in vegetation status and landscape fragmentation of the Panidihing Bird Sanctuary in Sibsagar, India from 2001 to 2021. The existence of wetlands within the study area is controlled by monsoon precipitation, so the sanctuary’s microtopography is frequently altered. The periodic change in microtopography intensifies the physical changes and disturbs the vegetation cover within the sanctuary. By identifying specific locations and types of changes in vegetation and fragmentation as indicators of ecosystem health, our analysis can assist decision-makers in efficiently safeguarding and conserving the sanctuary’s biodiversity. Overall, our results reveal a loss in vegetation cover and increasing landscape fragmentation within the area. Our landuse landcover change investigation shows that grassland is declining, and built-up area has increased. Both trends are a major concern since they could potentially reduce bird populations that require these habitats for breeding, foraging, and migrating.