Multiscale Sensitivity Analysis of Landscape Fragmentation in Plantation Forests on the Loess Plateau

Abstract

Effectively quantifying plantation forest fragmentation is crucial for vegetation restoration and management on the Loess Plateau. Forest area density (FAD) effectively measures fragmentation, with multiscale sensitivity analysis essential for determining the appropriate window scale threshold. This study uses plantation forest data from different geomorphological types (hilly gully and plateau gully region) of the Loess Plateau. Various window sizes are applied to evaluate the FAD threshold curve and its derivative for determining a stable fragmentation threshold, while a structural equation model is employed to analyze the drivers of forest fragmentation. The results are as follows: (1) FAD variability decreases with increasing window size, leveling off after reaching the threshold. (2) Thresholds vary by forest type and county. (3) Two principal components explain 81.27% of the window stabilization threshold variation, with strong correlations between similar fragmentation types. (4) Fragmentation slowed between 2000 and 2022, with hilly gully region more fragmented than plateau gully region. (5) Stand structure mitigates fragmentation, with topographic and climate change influences showing heterogeneity. “Core” maintain stability, while “Islet” drive fragmentation. This study emphasizes the importance of scale‐specific analysis and adaptive management strategies in mitigating forest fragmentation. This study supports optimizing ecological restoration and targeted conservation strategies, promoting sustainable forest management on the Loess Plateau.