A Study on the Biodiversity of the Damyang Riverine Protected Wetland Areas

Wetlands operate as complex ecological systems that enhance water quality, regulate hydrological dynamics, retain carbon within their soils, and support a broad spectrum of organisms. Nevertheless, these ecosystems continue to face degradation as a consequence of rapid urban expansion, shifts in land-use practices, and the introduction of non-native species. This study assessed long-term biodiversity changes in the Damyang Riverine Protected Wetland Areas, Korea’s first designated riverine wetland, by comparing survey results from 2009 and 2022. Field investigations targeted five major taxonomic groups (fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and terrestrial insects), and species richness, abundance, and diversity indices (Shannon-Wiener, richness, and evenness) were analyzed. The results showed that species richness increased from 269 in 2009 to 293 in 2022, while overall abundance declined markedly (6,551 individuals in 2009 vs. 2,731 individuals in 2022). Bird abundance decreased substantially, fish diversity declined, whereas insect diversity increased compared to 2009. These findings highlight temporal changes in biodiversity even within protected wetlands and provide baseline data to support wetland conservation, adaptive management strategies, and long-term monitoring in riverine ecosystems.