Ecological Recovery of Karst Ecosystems under Rocky Desertification

Qiaoan Yang

doi:10.62177/amit.v2i5.1706

Authors

Qiaoan Yang Universiti Sains Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62177/amit.v2i5.1706

Keywords:

Karst Rocky Desertification, Ecological Restoration, Sustainable Development, Sustainable Management

Abstract

Karst rocky desertification is a major form of ecological degradation caused by the interaction of natural geological conditions and human activities. Shallow soils, high water loss, and strong habitat heterogeneity make ecological restoration in karst areas challenging. Although vegetation restoration, soil and water conservation, and forest and grassland restoration have improved ecological conditions in many areas, traditional approaches often focus on increasing vegetation cover and may overlook differences in degradation levels and ecosystem functions. Based on a review of existing studies, this paper examines the main mechanisms of ecological restoration, including vegetation–soil interactions, water regulation, community structure, and microhabitat effects. It further compares restoration strategies under different levels of rocky desertification. The review suggests that effective restoration should move from vegetation recovery alone toward the coordinated restoration of vegetation, soil, water, and habitat conditions. Restoration strategies should also be adapted to local degradation levels. Mild and moderate areas should focus on plant community improvement and soil restoration, while severe areas should give greater attention to microhabitat improvement and stress-tolerant pioneer species. Based on these findings, an integrated framework linking rocky desertification level, habitat characteristics, plant selection, and restoration measures is proposed to support targeted management and long-term ecosystem recovery in karst areas.

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