This study investigates the ecological roles of small ponds (doomboung) distributed around rice paddies in the Jeonbuk region of Korea, in response to the increasing frequency and intensity of abnormal weather events caused by recent climate change. T...
This study investigates the ecological roles of small ponds (doomboung) distributed around rice paddies in the Jeonbuk region of Korea, in response to the increasing frequency and intensity of abnormal weather events caused by recent climate change. The ponds were classified into three types— pond type, ditch type, and composite type—based on their external morphology. For each type, the composition, importance value, life form, wetland plant ratio, and weed occurrence were analyzed for both the pond interior and embankment zones.
The results showed that wetland plants dominated the pond interiors, while terrestrial plants were prevalent on the embankments, indicating a clear ecological separation between these two zones. Notably, the pond type supported the highest plant diversity and had the lowest weed occurrence, making it the most efficient form for maintaining biodiversity and minimizing negative impacts on agricultural productivity. The presence of endemic species such as Viola seoulensis on the embankments highlights the conservation value of these ponds for local flora.
Statistical analyses (NMDS, PERMANOVA) confirmed a distinct separation in plant community structure between pond interiors and embankments, and demonstrated that pond morphology directly influences plant assemblages. This research emphasizes the importance of selecting regionally appropriate pond types and vegetation compositions for ecological restoration and climate adaptation. The findings provide practical evidence for enhancing the sustainability of agricultural ecosystems and conserving biodiversity in the face of ongoing environmental change.