The Yancheng Yellow Sea Wetlands are China’s first coastal wetland site inscribed as a World Natural Heritage Site. Recognized for their outstanding ecological value as a key hub along the East Asian–Australasian Flyway (EAAF), they are regarded a...
The Yancheng Yellow Sea Wetlands are China’s first coastal wetland site inscribed as a World Natural Heritage Site. Recognized for their outstanding ecological value as a key hub along the East Asian–Australasian Flyway (EAAF), they are regarded as a region of global importance. However, rapid urbanization in China and the impacts of climate anomalies have placed the region’s distinctive landscape characteristics and ecological environment under severe pressure. As a result, there is an urgent need to maintain ecological integrity while inheriting and reinforcing the uniqueness of regional landscapes in order to establish a clear sense of place and regional identity. Achieving such identity requires the recognition and continuous strengthening of distinctive landscape characteristics.
Based on this problem awareness, this study draws on Landscape Gene Theory to analyze the genetic values embedded in the landscapes of the Yancheng coastal region, conceptualized as a composite system integrating both natural and cultural dimensions. The study aims to propose a systematic framework for identifying landscape genes and constructing a landscape gene map tailored to regional characteristics. The main findings are as follows.
First, this study systematically examines the landscape evolution mechanisms and spatial characteristics of the Yancheng coastal region. The study area is characterized by a dynamic accretionary coastline, where reductions in natural wetlands and the expansion of artificial wetlands have led to significant transformations in inherent landscape patterns.
Second, in response to the restoration of altered or artificially distorted landscapes, this study establishes a landscape gene identification and classification system suitable for coastal wetland environments. An integrated four-dimensional classification framework—environmental ecology–material form–intangible culture–spatial pattern—is proposed, forming a theoretical and methodological basis for coastal wetland landscape gene analysis.
Third, the study identifies and codes the core landscape genes of the coastal landscape, systematizing them into a structured coding scheme. These data are digitally organized to construct a comprehensive spatial distribution map of landscape genes for the Yancheng coastal region.
Fourth, an applied framework integrating an intelligent map database, visualization platforms, and ecological decision-support systems is proposed, offering a comprehensive technical approach for wetland conservation, ecological restoration, and cultural transmission.
In conclusion, this study expands the application scope of landscape gene theory in nature-oriented regions, thereby enriching its theoretical framework. It provides a scientific foundation for landscape creation, the inheritance of regional identity, and the development of intelligent management systems in the Yancheng coastal region. The findings are also expected to offer valuable references and insights for landscape design and ecological restoration in other coastal wetland regions.