Wetland shrinkage threatens ecosystem balance in Sanjiang Plain.
Large-scale reclamation of wetlands in Nongjiang and Bielahong River Region has led to significant changes in the landscape since 1954. Wetlands have shrunk while cultivated land has expanded, impacting the region's ecology. Using satellite imagery and mapping technology, researchers found that wetlands decreased from 64.83% to 16.22% of the area, with cultivated land increasing from 0.68% to 39.38%. Nearly 42% of wetlands were converted to cultivated land over time. The causes of wetland shrinkage were linked to favorable climate conditions for crops in the region.