Modeling the spatial distribution of <i>Spartina alterniflora</i> ecological response to the interaction of flooding and soil salinity base on UAV data in Coastal Wetland

Spartina alterniflora Loisel poses risks to local vegetation types and coastal wetland. Managing the S. alterniflora invasion necessitates modeling its ecological response to the combined effects of flooding and soil salinity. Therefore, we integrate in situ sampling data and unmanned aerial vehicle point cloud data to quantitatively assess the effect of interaction between inundation and soil salinity on S. alterniflora and model the spatial distribution of S. alterniflora at the landscape scale. The study findings indicated that the optimal ecological amplitude for S. alterniflora in terms of flooding depth ranged from 0 to 1.02 m. Similarly, the optimal ecological amplitude for soil salinity was found to be between 9.47 and 26.13 g/kg. Based on these parameters, we were able to generate comprehensive habitat maps that depict the most suitable locations for the growth of S. alterniflora species across a larger landscape. The optimal distribution ranges for the canopy height and aboveground biomass of S. alterniflora were 1474.88 and 1307.99 ha, respectively. This research represents the first spatially quantitative investigation into the interaction effect of inundation and soil salinity on S. alterniflora. Furthermore, it provides a model for the optimal distribution range of S. alterniflora across expansive landscapes.