Ecological restoration effect evaluation method for seaweed field

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of seaweed farm restoration management, in particular to an effect evaluation method for ecological restoration of a seaweed farm. Comprising the following steps: analysis diagnosis and early-stage preparation: diagnosing the degradation degree of a seaweed field, carrying out ecological restoration suitability evaluation on the seaweed field, and carrying out monitoring preparation work before restoration; formulating and implementing a scheme, determining a restoration target, formulating a restoration scheme, and selecting a seaweed field restoration mode and a restoration measure; monitoring a repair project; effect evaluation: comprehensively evaluating the restoration effect from the aspects of engineering index completion degree, seaweed field ecological function and social benefit; and feeding back and adjusting. According to the invention, a whole set of work flow for ecological restoration and effect evaluation of the seaweed farm is provided, and effective technical support can be provided for development of ecological restoration and effect evaluation of the seaweed farm nationwide; the requirement for comprehensively and accurately evaluating the restoration effect can be met, benign interaction between ecological protection and economic development is achieved, and sustainable development of coastal areas is promoted.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of seaweed field restoration and management, and in particular to a method for evaluating the effect of seaweed field ecological restoration. Background Art

[0002] As a vital component of marine ecosystems, seaweed beds have crucial ecological functions. They not only provide habitats, reproduction, and feeding areas for numerous marine organisms, thus maintaining marine biodiversity, but also play a key role in regulating marine ecological balance, enhancing the ocean's carbon sink capacity, and mitigating eutrophication. For example, seaweed absorbs carbon dioxide from seawater through photosynthesis and releases oxygen, significantly contributing to improving the marine ecosystem. Their complex structures provide shelter for many marine organisms from predators, promoting the stable development of biomes.

[0003] However, seaweed beds worldwide face severe degradation challenges due to both human activities and natural factors. On the human side, rapid economic development in coastal areas has led to the discharge of large amounts of pollutants. Industrial wastewater, domestic sewage, and agricultural non-point source pollution continue to flow into the ocean, deteriorating the water quality of seaweed beds and affecting their growth and reproduction. Furthermore, marine and coastal engineering projects, such as port construction and land reclamation, have directly damaged the habitats of seaweed beds, leading to a reduction in their distribution area. Furthermore, excessive aquaculture and other fishing activities, as well as harvesting by local residents, have also severely disrupted the seaweed ecosystem. On the natural side, frequent extreme weather events, such as storm surges and typhoons, can directly damage the structure of seaweed beds. Abnormal fluctuations in water temperature and heavy rainfall can alter the physical and chemical properties of seawater, impacting the seaweed's habitat. Invasive alien species and the prevalence of predators also pose significant threats to seaweed beds.

[0004] Currently, seaweed farm restoration has become a research hotspot and focus in the field of marine ecological protection. Numerous scientific research teams and related institutions are actively carrying out seaweed farm restoration practices, aiming to restore the ecological functions and ecosystem services of seaweed farms. However, in the process of seaweed farm restoration, the lack of scientific and effective effect evaluation methods has become a key issue restricting the development of restoration work. Existing evaluation methods often have many limitations: some evaluations focus on a single indicator, such as monitoring only the biomass or community structure of seaweed, which cannot fully reflect the comprehensive effect of seaweed farm restoration, and ignore the changes in other important elements in the ecosystem and the impact of restoration work on social and economic benefits; some evaluation methods are highly subjective, and the determination of weights lacks scientific basis, resulting in low credibility and accuracy of evaluation results, making it difficult to truly reflect the actual effectiveness of restoration work; moreover, most evaluations do not fully consider the dynamic and long-term nature of the restoration process, and cannot timely track changes in restoration effects and make effective adjustments and optimizations.

[0005] In summary, it is urgent to develop a scientific, comprehensive, objective, and adaptable method for evaluating the effectiveness of seaweed farm restoration. This method not only accurately assesses the effectiveness of restoration efforts, providing a scientific basis for decision-making by management departments, researchers, and project implementers, but also helps optimize restoration plans, improve the utilization efficiency of restoration resources, promote the sustainable development of seaweed farm restoration, and achieve a virtuous interaction between marine ecological protection and coastal economic development. To this end, we propose a method for evaluating the effectiveness of seaweed farm restoration. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a method for evaluating the effect of seaweed field ecological restoration to solve the problems raised in the above background technology.

[0007] In order to solve the above technical problems, the present invention aims to provide a method for evaluating the effect of seaweed field ecological restoration, comprising the following steps: S1. Analysis, diagnosis and preliminary preparation: Determine the ecological restoration site by collecting basic data and conducting on-site surveys. Combined with the current status survey results, understand the historical status, ecological status and main threats of the seaweed field, determine the reference ecosystem, diagnose the degree of seaweed field degradation, conduct a seaweed field ecological restoration suitability assessment, and carry out pre-restoration monitoring and preparation work; S2. Plan Development and Implementation: Comprehensively consider the economic and technical feasibility and ecological benefits of restoration measures, and on this basis, clarify restoration objectives, formulate restoration plans, and select seaweed field restoration methods and measures. Implement restoration projects according to the restoration plans, conduct phased and overall acceptance inspections, and facilitate subsequent management and maintenance. S3. Restoration project monitoring: including restoration process monitoring and long-term post-restoration monitoring; S4. Effect evaluation: Conduct follow-up monitoring during and after the implementation of the restoration project, conduct a comprehensive assessment of the restoration effect from the aspects of project indicator completion, seaweed field ecological function and social benefits, etc., carry out adaptive management based on the assessment results, and prepare a seaweed field restoration project effect evaluation report; S5. Feedback and Adjustment: Based on the evaluation results, if the repair effect does not meet expectations, analyze the reasons and make adjustment suggestions to the problems to provide reference for subsequent repair work.

[0008] As a further improvement of this technical solution, in S1, the process of analysis, diagnosis and preliminary preparation includes the following steps: S1.1, preliminary investigation; S1.2. Determination of reference ecosystems: The reference ecosystem can be determined by using the pre-disturbance or historical seaweed farm ecosystem of the ecological restoration area, or existing seaweed farms in adjacent areas that have similar ecosystem characteristics to the seaweed farm ecological restoration area but have not degraded or have only slightly degraded (relatively well-preserved). At the same time, a comprehensive search for data on the reference ecosystem should be conducted, and the attributes of the reference ecosystem should be described in detail. S1.3. Diagnosis of seaweed bed ecological degradation: The diagnosis includes the degree of degradation and causes of the seaweed bed. Diagnostic indicators include at least biological community characteristics, abiotic environmental factors, and stress factors. Based on the results of comparison with reference ecosystems, the degree of seaweed bed degradation is classified into three levels: mild degradation (a decrease in distribution area, coverage, or biomass of 10% to 30%), moderate degradation (a decrease in distribution area, coverage, or biomass of 30% to 60%), and severe degradation (a decrease in distribution area or biomass of more than 60%). S1.4. Ecological Restoration Suitability Evaluation: Demonstrate the suitability of seaweed farm ecological restoration in the selected area and set suitability evaluation criteria. Areas that meet all the criteria, or can meet the criteria after ecological and environmental remediation, are considered suitable; otherwise, they are considered unsuitable. S1.5. Monitoring point establishment: Establish multiple representative monitoring points in the proposed seaweed farm restoration area. The distribution of monitoring points should cover different locations and habitat conditions in the restoration area to ensure that the status of the restoration area is fully reflected; S1.6. Determine monitoring indicators: Monitoring indicators shall include at least engineering indicators, ecological function indicators and social and economic benefit indicators.

[0009] As a further improvement of this technical solution, in S1.1, the preliminary investigation process includes the following steps: S1.1.1. Data Collection: Understand the historical distribution, community characteristics, environmental conditions, and threats of the seaweed beds within the proposed restoration area by reviewing literature, consulting experts, and visiting local marine-related organizations and residents. S1.1.2. Site survey: Understand the basic environmental characteristics of the proposed restoration area and preliminarily identify the existing stressors of the seaweed field, including human interference and natural factors; S1.1.3. Ecological restoration site selection: The selection of restoration areas should include the following criteria: a) Select the distribution area of ​​degraded seaweed beds or the surrounding suitable sea areas; b) Select areas with suitable bottom and water conditions for seaweed growth; c) Avoid sea areas with frequent human activities, serious environmental pollution, and coastal engineering construction; S1.1.4. Current Status Survey: Conduct a current status survey of both seaweed and environmental factors within the selected ecological restoration site. Survey items for seaweed factors include the distribution and community of seaweed, while survey items for environmental factors include the water environment, sediment environment, and biological ecology. S1.1.5 Identification of stress factors: Based on data collection, site investigation and current situation survey results, identify stress factors affecting the seaweed site.

[0010] As a further improvement of this technical solution, in S2, the process of formulating and implementing the solution includes the following steps: Plan formulation stage S2.1. Restoration Objectives: The ecological restoration objectives of seaweed farms include overall objectives and phased objectives. The formulation of ecological restoration objectives for seaweed farms focuses on restoring seaweed communities, the ecological functions of seaweed farms, and ecosystem services, while also taking into account social needs. The established ecological restoration objectives must be quantifiable and assessable. S2.2. Preparation of Restoration Plan: The preparation of the restoration plan shall at least include the project content, specific technologies and measures, risk analysis and emergency management, construction schedule, budget and long-term maintenance, etc. S2.3. Determination of restoration methods: Seaweed farm restoration methods include natural restoration and artificial assisted restoration. Natural restoration is suitable for slightly degraded seaweed farms, while artificial assisted restoration is suitable for moderately or severely degraded seaweed farms that cannot recover naturally. S2.4, establishment of seaweed field restoration measures; S2.5. Implementation of ecological restoration project: Organize and implement according to the seaweed field ecological restoration project plan; S2.6 Ecological restoration and protection measures: Strictly implement ecological restoration and protection according to the ecological restoration and protection plan until the ecological restoration goals are achieved. As a further improvement of this technical solution, in S2.4, the seaweed field restoration measures include habitat improvement and planting restoration; Habitat remediation includes habitat management and substrate remediation. Habitat management involves controlling the factors that cause seaweed bed degradation, implementing area closures for conservation, and eliminating or reducing human interference with seaweed beds. Substrate remediation involves cleaning or preparing the substrate to restore the bottom environment. The contents of planting restoration include the selection of restoration algae species, the source of restoration algae species, the collection and cultivation of algae species and the planting methods; Among them, the restoration algae species are selected according to the suitability evaluation results, and local native dominant algae species are given priority; When selecting algae species for restoration, priority should be given to seaweed fields with thriving growth, high coverage, and continuous distribution. Furthermore, the environmental conditions of the location of the algae species should be similar to those of the restoration area. Algae seed collection and cultivation include reproductive branch collection, spore (or larvae) collection and seedling cultivation; Planting methods include reproductive branch sowing, spore (or juvenile body) broadcasting, and seedling transplanting. The planting time should be determined according to the biological characteristics of different algae species, and should be carried out on cloudy or overcast days with less wind and waves on the sea.

[0011] As a further improvement of this technical solution, in S3, the process of monitoring the repair project includes: First, determine the survey elements and methods for the follow-up monitoring survey: the survey elements and methods should be consistent with the previous survey in S1.1; Second, set the monitoring frequency and time: conduct follow-up monitoring during and after the implementation of the restoration project; And according to the set monitoring time, the restoration project monitoring process is divided into restoration process monitoring and long-term post-restoration monitoring; Restoration process monitoring includes: regularly monitoring project indicators during the restoration project, recording the progress of algae transplantation and substrate remediation, etc., to ensure that the project proceeds as planned; Post-repair long-term monitoring means: continuing long-term monitoring after the restoration project is completed.

[0012] As a further improvement of this technical solution, in S4, the effect evaluation process includes the following steps: S4.1. Establish a comprehensive assessment model, assigning appropriate weights to engineering indicators, ecological function indicators, and socioeconomic benefit indicators based on the degree of impact of different indicators on the ecological restoration of seaweed fields. The process of establishing the comprehensive assessment model specifically includes: S4.1.1. Calculation of project indicator completion: The project indicator completion is the ratio of the actual completion value of the project indicator to the preset value of the project indicator; S4.1.2. Calculation of the seaweed field ecological function assessment score: The seaweed field ecological function includes seaweed elements and environmental elements; S4.1.3. Calculate social impact scores: Set the questionnaire content and scoring method, distribute the questionnaire to residents living near the restored seaweed field, and evaluate the social benefits of the restoration project through questionnaire scoring; S4.1.4. Overall evaluation of restoration results: Comprehensive evaluation of the restoration project based on the degree of completion of project indicators, ecological functions of the seaweed field, and social benefits; S4.2. Standardize the data of each monitoring indicator to eliminate the impact of dimension and make the data of different indicators comparable; S4.3. Substitute the processed data into the evaluation model to calculate the comprehensive evaluation score of the seaweed farm ecological restoration; S4.4. The repair effect is divided into grades according to the scores, such as excellent, good, qualified, and unqualified, to intuitively demonstrate the repair effect.

[0013] As a further improvement of this technical solution, in S4.1.1, the calculation formula for the project indicator completion degree is: Where, Indicates the project indicator completion score, Indicates the The scores of the evaluation indicators, Indicates the The weight of each evaluation indicator; the evaluation indicators of project completion include at least planting area, planting density, etc.; The constraints of this formula are: Introduce dynamic weight optimization calculation results and adjust weights according to the repair stage; let the repair stage be , the weight function is , the optimized formula is: Where, Indicates the completion score of the engineering indicators after the introduction of dynamic weight optimization. for Phase I The scores of the evaluation indicators, for Phase I By reasonably setting the weight function, the impact of the completion of engineering indicators at different stages on the restoration effect can be more accurately reflected.

[0014] As a further improvement of this technical solution, in S4.1.2, the process of calculating the seaweed field ecological function assessment score includes: First, in the seaweed factor assessment, the recovery rate calculation formula of the assessment index is: Where, Indicates the The recovery rate of the evaluation indicators is Indicates the The survey values ​​of the evaluation indicators, Indicates the reference ecosystem The evaluation index values ​​of the seaweed elements shall include at least the recovery rate of distribution area and the recovery rate of coverage; The calculation formula for the seaweed factor score is: Where, Indicates the seaweed factor score, Indicates the The evaluation score of the recovery rate of the evaluation indicator, Indicates the The weight of each evaluation indicator; Secondly, the environmental factor assessment requires calculation of various parameters of the seaweed field community, including both the community and the water environment. The calculation formula for the environmental factor assessment of the seaweed field is: Where, represents the environmental factor score of the seaweed field; Indicates the biome The scores of the evaluation indicators, Indicates the biome The weight of the evaluation indicators, represents the total number of biome assessment indicators; Indicates the water environment The scores of the evaluation indicators, Indicates the water environment The weight of the evaluation indicators, Indicates the total number of water environment assessment indicators; Among them, the evaluation indicators of biological communities shall at least include fish plankton density, large benthic / intertidal zone biodiversity index, etc.; the evaluation indicators of water environment shall at least include inorganic nitrogen concentration, suspended matter concentration and dissolved oxygen concentration, etc.; Finally, combining the evaluation results of seaweed factors and environmental factors, the calculation formula for the biological function evaluation of seaweed fields is: Where, represents the ecological function score of the seaweed field; On the basis of the above, we first combine the entropy weight method and use the discrete degree of the indicator data to objectively determine the weight, so that the weight determination is more scientific and reasonable and reduces the influence of subjective factors; for the evaluation of seaweed factors, we first calculate the entropy value of each indicator , and then get the entropy weight , combined with the subjective weight determined by the hierarchical analysis method , and the weights are obtained by combining (α is the weight combination coefficient, 0<α<1) to calculate the seaweed factor score; similarly, for the environmental factor assessment, the evaluation index weights of the biological community and the water environment are obtained respectively and ,in, are weight combination coefficients, and ; Furthermore, considering the time dimension, the calculation formula of seaweed factor scoring and the calculation formula of seaweed field environmental factor evaluation are dynamically optimized, and the time variable is introduced. , adjust the formulas: In the calculation formula of the recovery rate of seaweed factor evaluation indicators, express Moment The survey values ​​of the evaluation indicators, The corresponding dynamic reference value can be set according to the repair process , to reflect the phased changes in the restoration goals, and obtain the adjusted Recovery rate of evaluation indicators ; For the seaweed factor scoring formula, express Moment Evaluation score of the recovery rate of the evaluation indicator, weight It can also be adjusted over time to highlight the importance of key indicators at different restoration stages to obtain an adjusted seaweed factor score ; The environmental factor assessment formula is the same. 、 They are Biomes and water environments at all times 、 The scores of the evaluation indicators, The weight corresponding to the moment 、 It should also change dynamically to obtain the adjusted seaweed field environmental factor score ; In addition, the interaction between indicators is considered: when calculating the ecological function score of the seaweed field, the indicator interaction coefficient is introduced , Respectively represent different indicators in seaweed factors and environmental factors; the adjusted formula is: Where, are the number of seaweed factor and environmental factor indicators, 、 The scores of the corresponding indicators are respectively given. In this way, the impact of the interaction between indicators on ecological functions is reflected, making the evaluation results more in line with the actual situation.

[0015] As a further improvement of this technical solution, in S4.1.4, the basic formula for comprehensive evaluation of the engineering restoration effect of the restoration project is: Where, Indicates the overall score of the engineering repair effect. Indicates the weight of the project indicator completion degree, represents the weight of the seaweed field ecological function assessment, represents the social benefit score, represents the weight of social benefit evaluation; Combining the optimization and improvement of the above formulas, the final formula for comprehensive evaluation of the engineering restoration effect of the restoration project is: Where, It represents the overall score of the engineering repair effect after optimization and improvement.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects: 1. This seaweed farm ecological restoration effectiveness evaluation method, based on the ecological endowment of my country's seaweed farms, innovatively provides technical guidance for early diagnosis and identification, suitability evaluation, restoration implementation, and effectiveness evaluation of seaweed farm ecological restoration, creating a replicable, portable, and systematic scientific restoration model and successfully demonstrating its application. It provides a complete workflow for seaweed farm ecological restoration and effectiveness evaluation, including preliminary investigation of seaweed farm restoration areas, identification of degradation levels and coercive factors, suitability evaluation, selection of restoration methods, project implementation, post-implementation management, and restoration effectiveness evaluation. This method fills a gap in my country's technical standards for seaweed farm ecological restoration and effectiveness evaluation, and can provide effective technical support for the implementation of seaweed farm ecological restoration and effectiveness evaluation nationwide, which is of great significance. 2. This seaweed farm ecological restoration effectiveness evaluation method, through multi-indicator monitoring and a comprehensive evaluation model, comprehensively covers aspects of seaweed farm ecological restoration project implementation, ecological function restoration, and socioeconomic benefit enhancement. This overcomes the one-sidedness of single-indicator evaluation, accurately reflects the actual effectiveness of restoration work, and achieves the requirement of comprehensive and accurate evaluation of restoration effects. 3. The evaluation method for the effectiveness of seaweed field ecological restoration presents the evaluation results in a quantitative form and clearly points out the strengths and weaknesses of the restoration work, providing a scientific basis for management departments, scientific researchers, and project implementers, helping to formulate more reasonable marine ecological restoration plans and policies, optimize subsequent restoration project plans, improve the efficiency of restoration resource utilization, and provide an accurate and effective scientific basis for decision-making; 4. The effectiveness evaluation method of seaweed farm ecological restoration can timely discover problems in the restoration process and make adjustments and optimizations, which will help improve the ecological restoration effect of seaweed farms, accelerate the recovery of seaweed farm ecosystems, enhance marine carbon sequestration capacity, alleviate eutrophication of the sea area, increase biodiversity and fishery resources; at the same time, it will promote the healthy development of industries such as ecological fisheries and ecological tourism, achieve a virtuous interaction between ecological protection and economic development, and promote sustainable development of coastal areas. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 This is a flow chart of an exemplary method for evaluating the effects of seaweed field ecological restoration in the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The following will provide a clear and complete description of the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field based on the embodiments of the present invention without making any creative efforts shall fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0019] Example 1 like Figure 1 As shown, this embodiment provides a method for evaluating the effect of seaweed field ecological restoration, including the following steps: S1. Analysis, diagnosis and preliminary preparation: Determine the ecological restoration site by collecting basic data and conducting on-site surveys. Combined with the current status survey results, understand the historical status, ecological status and main threats of the seaweed field, determine the reference ecosystem, diagnose the degree of seaweed field degradation, conduct a seaweed field ecological restoration suitability assessment, and carry out pre-restoration monitoring and preparation work; In this step, the analysis, diagnosis and preliminary preparation process includes the following steps: S1.1. Preliminary investigation: The preliminary investigation process includes the following steps: S1.1.1. Data Collection: Understand the historical distribution, community characteristics, environmental conditions, and threats of the seaweed beds within the proposed restoration area by reviewing literature, consulting experts, and visiting local marine-related organizations and residents. S1.1.2. Site Survey: Understand the basic environmental characteristics of the proposed restoration area, such as topography, landforms, and bottom types; preliminarily identify existing threats to the seaweed field, including human disturbances such as pollutant emissions, marine and coastal engineering, aquaculture and other fishery activities, and harvesting by local residents, as well as natural factors such as storm surges, typhoons, abnormal water temperature changes, heavy rains, invasive alien species, and predatory organisms. S1.1.3. Ecological restoration site selection: The selection of restoration areas should include the following criteria: a) Select the distribution area of ​​degraded seaweed beds or the surrounding suitable sea areas; b) Select areas with suitable bottom and water conditions for seaweed growth; c) Avoid sea areas with frequent human activities, serious environmental pollution, and coastal engineering construction; S1.1.4. Current Status Survey: Conduct a current status survey of both seaweed and environmental factors within the selected ecological restoration site. Survey items for seaweed factors include seaweed distribution (area, distribution, and coverage) and seaweed communities (seaweed species composition, dominant species, plant height, sample coverage, density, and biomass). Survey items for environmental factors include water environment (salinity, transparency, water depth, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, flow velocity, flow direction, pH, chemical oxygen demand, suspended solids, oil, active phosphate, inorganic nitrogen (ammonia, nitrate, and nitrite)), sedimentary environment (bottom type), and biological ecology (chlorophyll a content (primary productivity); phytoplankton: species and quantity; zooplankton: species, quantity, and biomass; macrobenthos: species and quantity; intertidal organisms: species, quantity, and biomass; fish and plankton: species and quantity; attached organisms: species, quantity, and biomass; and predatory organisms: species and quantity). Specifically, seaweed surveys should be conducted using a cross-sectional approach. The cross-sectional and station layout should cover the proposed restoration area. At least three seaweed survey sections should be established perpendicular to the coast, with at least three survey stations per section, representing the characteristics of different areas and depths of the seaweed bed. Each station should survey at least three plots (25 cm x 25 cm or 50 cm x 50 cm). Once determined, the cross-sectional and station layouts should remain unchanged. A seaweed survey should be conducted at least once during the peak algal growth period, prior to the implementation of the restoration project.

[0020] Environmental element surveys should be conducted using a cross-section approach, with the layout of the sections consistent with the seaweed survey. Each section should have at least two environmental element survey stations. Once designated, these stations should remain unchanged. At least one environmental element survey should be conducted before the restoration project begins, with fish and plankton surveys conducted in May. Other element surveys should be conducted at the same time as the seaweed survey.

[0021] S1.1.5, Identification of stress factors: Based on the results of data collection, site investigation and current situation survey, identify the stress factors affecting the seaweed site; S1.2. Determination of reference ecosystems: The reference ecosystem can be determined by using the pre-disturbance or historical seaweed farm ecosystem of the ecological restoration area, or existing seaweed farms in adjacent areas that have similar ecosystem characteristics to the seaweed farm ecological restoration area but have not degraded or have only slightly degraded (relatively well-preserved). At the same time, a comprehensive search for data on the reference ecosystem should be conducted, and the attributes of the reference ecosystem should be described in detail, including abiotic environmental elements, community characteristics, ecosystem functions, and stress factors. If data on existing local reference ecosystems is lacking or incomplete, additional investigations should be conducted. S1.3. Diagnosis of seaweed bed ecological degradation: The diagnosis includes the degree of degradation and causes of the seaweed bed. Diagnostic indicators include at least biological community characteristics, abiotic environmental factors, and stress factors. Based on the results of comparison with reference ecosystems, the degree of seaweed bed degradation is classified into three levels: mild degradation (a decrease in distribution area, coverage, or biomass of 10% to 30%), moderate degradation (a decrease in distribution area, coverage, or biomass of 30% to 60%), and severe degradation (a decrease in distribution area or biomass of more than 60%). Among them, when the seaweed field before or during the ecological restoration area is selected as the reference ecosystem, the distribution area should be selected as the degradation diagnostic indicator; when the seaweed field in the adjacent area is selected as the reference ecosystem, the coverage or biomass should be selected as the degradation diagnostic indicator; S1.4. Ecological Restoration Suitability Evaluation: Demonstrate the suitability of seaweed farm ecological restoration in the selected area and set suitability evaluation criteria. Areas that meet all the criteria, or can meet the criteria after ecological and environmental remediation, are considered suitable; otherwise, they are considered unsuitable. Among them, the evaluation content of ecological restoration suitability evaluation includes ecological environment and stress factors; the evaluation indicators of ecological environment include water depth, water temperature, salinity, transparency, bottom type, and hydrodynamic conditions; the evaluation indicators of stress factors include seaweed pests, sewage discharge, marine development and coastal projects, aquaculture and other fishery activities.

[0022] S1.5. Monitoring point establishment: Establish multiple representative monitoring points in the proposed seaweed farm restoration area. The distribution of monitoring points should cover different locations and habitat conditions in the restoration area to ensure that the status of the restoration area is fully reflected; S1.6. Determine monitoring indicators: Monitoring indicators shall include at least engineering indicators, ecological function indicators and social and economic benefit indicators; among them, engineering indicators include the number of transplanted algae species and the area of ​​substrate remediation; ecological function indicators include seaweed biomass, algae community diversity, dissolved oxygen content in the sea area, eutrophication indicators, etc.; social and economic benefit indicators include surrounding fishery output, ecotourism income, number of employees, etc.

[0023] S2. Plan Development and Implementation: Comprehensively consider the economic and technical feasibility and ecological benefits of restoration measures, and on this basis, clarify restoration objectives, formulate restoration plans, and select seaweed field restoration methods and measures. Implement restoration projects according to the restoration plans, conduct phased and overall acceptance inspections, and facilitate subsequent management and maintenance. In this step, the process of plan formulation and implementation includes the following steps: Plan formulation stage S2.1. Determination of restoration objectives: The ecological restoration objectives of seaweed farms include overall objectives and phased objectives. The formulation of ecological restoration objectives for seaweed farms focuses on restoring seaweed communities, seaweed farm ecological functions, and ecosystem services, while taking into account social needs. These objectives include: controlling or eliminating stressors on seaweed farm ecosystems; improving and restoring seaweed farm habitat conditions; protecting and restoring target seaweed communities, maintaining and enhancing biodiversity; restoring key ecological processes and functions, improving ecosystem integrity, and enhancing the ecosystem's self-recovery capacity; and enhancing ecosystem services, increasing ecological and social benefits. The ecological restoration goals set must be quantifiable and measurable, including the following indicators: the area of ​​seaweed farms, the density of seaweed after restoration; the restoration of the ecological functions of seaweed farms; the social benefits of ecological restoration projects; the area of ​​seaweed farms, the density of seaweed after restoration; the restoration of the ecological functions of seaweed farms; the social benefits of ecological restoration projects; S2.2. Preparation of Restoration Plan: The preparation of the restoration plan shall at least include the project content (determining the specific work content and project volume based on the restoration objectives and restoration methods), specific technologies and measures, risk analysis and emergency management, construction schedule (determining the construction period and phased goals based on the natural environmental characteristics of the restoration area and the physiological characteristics of the restored algae species), budget and long-term management and maintenance, etc. S2.3. Determination of restoration methods: Seaweed farm restoration methods include natural restoration and artificially assisted restoration. Natural restoration is suitable for mildly degraded seaweed farms. By strengthening seaweed farm habitat management, improving the ecological and environmental conditions of the seaweed farm, and relying on the natural resilience of the seaweed farm, the natural restoration of the seaweed farm's structure and function can be achieved. Artificially assisted restoration is suitable for moderately or severely degraded seaweed farms that are unable to recover naturally. The restoration or reconstruction of the seaweed farm can be achieved through methods such as seaweed farm habitat improvement and planting of suitable algae species. S2.4. Seaweed farm restoration measures: Seaweed farm restoration measures include habitat improvement and planting restoration. Habitat remediation includes habitat management and substrate remediation. Habitat management involves controlling the factors that cause seaweed bed degradation, implementing area closures for conservation, and eliminating or reducing human interference with seaweed beds. Substrate remediation involves cleaning or preparing the substrate to restore the bottom environment. The specific measures for basement remediation are: (1) Substrate cleaning: remove harmful organisms and provide substrate space for the restoration of algae attachment and growth; (2) Substrate preparation: When the restoration area is located in the intertidal zone, a trough or platform can be built to reduce the impact of tides and dry dew and provide a substrate for seaweed attachment. When the restoration area is located in the subtidal zone, reef structures that are conducive to seaweed attachment can be placed. The substrate preparation should be carried out by planting ecological materials such as rocks and shells.

[0024] The contents of planting restoration include the selection of restoration algae species, the source of restoration algae species, the collection and cultivation of algae species and the planting methods; Among them, the restoration algae species are selected according to the suitability evaluation results, and local native dominant algae species are given priority; When selecting algae species for restoration, priority should be given to seaweed fields with thriving growth, high coverage, and continuous distribution. Furthermore, the environmental conditions of the location of the algae species should be similar to those of the restoration area. Algae seed collection and cultivation include reproductive branch collection, spore (or juvenile) collection and seedling cultivation; the specific methods of algae seed collection and cultivation are as follows: A. Collection of reproductive branches: Collect reproductive branches when the seaweed is about to mature and spread; B. Spore (or larvae) collection: Place the collected reproductive branches in sand-filtered seawater for washing to remove impurities, and then dry them in a dry, ventilated, and cool place for stimulation. After the stimulation is completed, place the reproductive branches in a quantitatively filtered seawater for dispersion, and filter with a mesh to collect the seaweed spores (or larvae). C. Seedling cultivation: Based on the biological characteristics of the algae species, the spores (or larvae) are evenly settled and attached to the substrate in the seawater pool. After being cultivated indoors to an appropriate size, they are transplanted to the restoration area.

[0025] Planting methods include reproductive branch sowing, spore (or juvenile) broadcasting, and seedling transplanting. Planting time should be determined based on the biological characteristics of different algae species and should be carried out on cloudy or overcast days with light sea waves. Cultivated seedlings should be used first. Specific planting methods are as follows: A. Reproductive branch seeding method: After the reproductive branches are collected, they are tied with heavy objects and placed on the base of the restoration area, or fixed in a mesh bag at an appropriate location. When the reproductive branches mature, they release spores (or juveniles) and naturally settle and attach to the base. B. Spore (or larvae) spreading method: Choose low tide to evenly sprinkle spore (or larvae) water on the sea surface of the restoration area, allowing it to settle naturally and adhere to the substrate; C. Seedling transplantation method: Fix the attachment base of the seedlings at an appropriate position on the base of the restoration area, or bundle the seedlings on the reef components in the form of clips and place them in the restoration area (or bundle them after the reef components are placed).

[0026] Program implementation phase S2.5. Implementation of the ecological restoration project: This project will be organized and implemented according to the seaweed field ecological restoration project plan; specifically, it includes the following: 1) Before the restoration project officially begins, conduct thorough preliminary experiments on representative sample sites within the restoration area to verify factors such as algal species selection, technical feasibility, and habitat suitability. Adjust the restoration plan based on the experimental results. 2) Promote the restoration project according to the project plan, strictly implement the phased goals, complete the tasks of each phase on schedule, and complete the phased acceptance and overall acceptance; 3) The project should avoid causing pollution and damage to the surrounding ecological environment and other ecosystems; 4) The implementation of the restoration project should be supervised throughout the entire process, with strengthened construction site management and enhanced project quality control; S2.6 Ecological Restoration and Management Measures: Strictly implement ecological restoration and management according to the ecological restoration and management plan until the ecological restoration goals are achieved. The late-stage management and management measures for the seaweed field ecological restoration project may include: 1) Set up markers such as wooden stakes, beacons, and buoys at the boundaries of the seaweed restoration area to prevent nearby residents from entering the restoration area for sightseeing or harvesting. 2) Rationally control aquaculture, fishing and other fishery activities within the seaweed restoration area and adjacent waters to limit pollution and damage to the seaweed beds caused by related activities; 3) Pay attention to land-based pollution emissions and regularly clean up garbage and pollutants in the restoration area; 4) Monitor the growth and development of planted seaweed, prevent risks of disease and predators, and carry out additional seaweed cultivation and planting as needed.

[0027] S3. Restoration project monitoring: including restoration process monitoring and long-term post-restoration monitoring; In this step, the restoration project monitoring process includes: First, determine the survey elements and methods for the follow-up monitoring survey: the survey elements and methods should be consistent with the previous survey in S1.1; Specifically, the layout of sections and stations should be consistent with the previous survey, with no less than three sections for seaweed element surveys and no less than six stations for environmental element surveys. Once the stations are determined, they should remain unchanged. Secondly, set the monitoring frequency and time: carry out follow-up monitoring during and after the implementation of the restoration project; the monitoring frequency and time are: During the first year of seaweed farm restoration, intensive monitoring of the germination, survival, and growth of planted seaweed should be conducted. Monitoring should be conducted monthly within three months after planting, and quarterly from three months to one year. From the second to the fifth year of seaweed field ecological restoration, monitoring should be carried out at least once a year, preferably during the peak growth period of seaweed. And according to the set monitoring time, the restoration project monitoring process is divided into restoration process monitoring and long-term post-restoration monitoring; Restoration process monitoring involves regularly monitoring project indicators during the restoration project, recording the progress of algae transplantation and substrate remediation, and ensuring the project proceeds as planned. Preliminary monitoring of selected ecological indicators, such as algae survival and changes in algae populations during early growth, will also be conducted to identify potential problems.

[0028] Post-restoration long-term monitoring involves continuous monitoring after the restoration project is completed. Seaweed biomass will be monitored seasonally, using techniques such as quadrat sampling and underwater photography to obtain data. Changes in algae community structure will be regularly analyzed to identify algae species and abundance. Water quality indicators will be monitored in real time to assess improvements in eutrophication. Marine biodiversity will be monitored, with counts of species and abundance associated with the seaweed beds. Social and economic benefit indicators will be tracked, including changes in surrounding fishery production, visitor numbers and revenue from ecotourism projects, and changes in local employment.

[0029] S4. Effect evaluation: Conduct follow-up monitoring during and after the implementation of the restoration project, conduct a comprehensive assessment of the restoration effect from the aspects of project indicator completion, seaweed field ecological function and social benefits, etc., carry out adaptive management based on the assessment results, and prepare a seaweed field restoration project effect evaluation report; In this step, the effect evaluation process includes the following steps: S4.1. Establish a comprehensive assessment model, assigning appropriate weights to engineering indicators, ecological function indicators, and socioeconomic benefit indicators based on the degree of impact of different indicators on the ecological restoration of seaweed fields. Use scientific methods such as the analytic hierarchy process to determine the weights to ensure objective and accurate assessment results. The process of establishing a comprehensive assessment model specifically includes: S4.1.1. Calculation of project indicator completion: The project indicator completion is the ratio of the actual completion value of the project indicator to the preset value of the project indicator; The calculation formula for project indicator completion is: Where, Indicates the project indicator completion score, Indicates the The scores of the evaluation indicators, Indicates the The weight of each evaluation indicator; the evaluation indicators of project completion include at least planting area, planting density, etc.; The constraints of this formula are: During the ecological restoration of seaweed fields, the importance of various engineering indicators may change at different stages. For example, in the early stages of restoration, the number of algae species planted may be more critical; in the later stages, the effect of substrate remediation has a greater impact on the sustainability of seaweed growth. In this way, dynamic weight optimization calculation results are introduced to adjust the weights according to the restoration stage; let the restoration stage be , the weight function is , the optimized formula is: Where, Indicates the completion score of the engineering indicators after the introduction of dynamic weight optimization. for Phase I The scores of the evaluation indicators, for Phase I By reasonably setting the weight function, the impact of the completion of engineering indicators at different stages on the restoration effect can be more accurately reflected.

[0030] S4.1.2. Calculation of the seaweed field ecological function assessment score: The seaweed field ecological function includes seaweed elements and environmental elements; The process of calculating the seaweed farm ecological function assessment score includes: First, in the seaweed factor assessment, the recovery rate calculation formula of the assessment index is: Where, Indicates the The recovery rate of the evaluation indicators is Indicates the The survey values ​​of the evaluation indicators, Indicates the reference ecosystem The evaluation index values ​​of the seaweed elements shall include at least the recovery rate of distribution area and the recovery rate of coverage; The calculation formula for the seaweed factor score is: Where, Indicates the seaweed factor score, Indicates the The evaluation score of the recovery rate of the evaluation indicator, Indicates the The weight of each evaluation indicator; Secondly, the environmental factor assessment requires calculation of various parameters of the seaweed field community, including both the community and the water environment. The calculation formula for the environmental factor assessment of the seaweed field is: Where, represents the environmental factor score of the seaweed field; Indicates the biome The scores of the evaluation indicators, Indicates the biome The weight of the evaluation indicators, represents the total number of biome assessment indicators; Indicates the water environment The scores of the evaluation indicators, Indicates the water environment The weight of the evaluation indicators, Indicates the total number of water environment assessment indicators; Among them, the evaluation indicators of biological communities shall at least include fish plankton density, large benthic / intertidal zone biodiversity index, etc.; the evaluation indicators of water environment shall at least include inorganic nitrogen concentration, suspended matter concentration and dissolved oxygen concentration, etc.; Finally, combining the evaluation results of seaweed factors and environmental factors, the calculation formula for the biological function evaluation of seaweed fields is: Where, represents the ecological function score of the seaweed field; On the basis of the above, the weights in the original formula are determined by using the hierarchical analysis method, but this method is highly subjective. First, the entropy weight method is combined to objectively determine the weights using the discrete degree of the indicator data, making the weight determination more scientific and reasonable and reducing the influence of subjective factors. For the evaluation of seaweed factors, the entropy value of each indicator is first calculated. , and then get the entropy weight , combined with the subjective weight determined by the hierarchical analysis method , and the weights are obtained by combining (α is the weight combination coefficient, 0<α<1) to calculate the seaweed factor score; similarly, for the environmental factor assessment, the evaluation index weights of the biological community and the water environment are obtained respectively and ,in, are weight combination coefficients, and ; Furthermore, considering the time dimension, the calculation formula of seaweed factor scoring and the calculation formula of seaweed field environmental factor assessment were dynamically optimized. The original formula did not reflect the changes of ecological functions over time, while seaweed field ecological restoration is a dynamic process. Introducing the time variable , adjust the formulas: In the calculation formula of the recovery rate of seaweed factor evaluation indicators, express Moment The survey values ​​of the evaluation indicators, The corresponding dynamic reference value can be set according to the repair process , to reflect the phased changes in the restoration goals, and obtain the adjusted Recovery rate of evaluation indicators ; For the seaweed factor scoring formula, express Moment Evaluation score of the recovery rate of the evaluation indicator, weight It can also be adjusted over time to highlight the importance of key indicators at different restoration stages to obtain an adjusted seaweed factor score ; The environmental factor assessment formula is the same. 、 They are Biomes and water environments at all times 、 The scores of the evaluation indicators, The weight corresponding to the moment 、 It should also change dynamically to obtain the adjusted seaweed field environmental factor score ; In addition, the interaction between indicators is considered: the various indicators in the seaweed field ecosystem are interrelated, which is not considered in the original formula. Taking seaweed factors and environmental factors as an example, the increase in seaweed biomass may affect the dissolved oxygen concentration in the water and the structure of the biological community. When calculating the ecological function score of the seaweed field, the indicator interaction coefficient is introduced. , Respectively represent different indicators in seaweed factors and environmental factors; the adjusted formula is: Where, are the number of seaweed factor and environmental factor indicators, 、 The scores of the corresponding indicators are respectively given. In this way, the impact of the interaction between indicators on ecological functions is reflected, making the evaluation results more in line with the actual situation.

[0031] S4.1.3. Calculate social impact scores: Set the questionnaire content and scoring method, distribute the questionnaire to residents living near the restored seaweed field, and evaluate the social benefits of the restoration project through questionnaire scoring; S4.1.4. Overall evaluation of restoration results: Comprehensive evaluation of the restoration project based on the degree of completion of project indicators, ecological functions of the seaweed field, and social benefits; The basic formula for comprehensive evaluation of the engineering restoration effect of the restoration project is: Where, Indicates the overall score of the engineering repair effect. Indicates the weight of the project indicator completion degree, represents the weight of the seaweed field ecological function assessment, represents the social benefit score, represents the weight of social benefit evaluation; Combining the optimization and improvement of the above formulas, the final formula for comprehensive evaluation of the engineering restoration effect of the restoration project is: Where, It represents the overall score of the engineering repair effect after optimization and improvement.

[0032] S4.2. Standardize the data of each monitoring indicator to eliminate the impact of dimension and make the data of different indicators comparable; S4.3. Substitute the processed data into the evaluation model to calculate the comprehensive evaluation score of the seaweed farm ecological restoration; S4.4. The repair effect is divided into grades according to the scores, such as excellent, good, qualified, and unqualified, to intuitively demonstrate the repair effect.

[0033] S5. Feedback and Adjustment: Based on the evaluation results, if the restoration effect does not meet expectations, analyze the reasons, such as improper selection of algae species, inadequate implementation of restoration measures, etc.; and make adjustment suggestions for the problems, such as adjusting the algae species structure, improving subsequent maintenance measures, etc., to provide reference for subsequent restoration work.

[0034] First, the requirements for the preparation of the evaluation report include: the seaweed field restoration effect evaluation report should comprehensively and concisely reflect the basic situation of the seaweed field restoration project, the restoration effect evaluation results, etc. The text should be concise and accurate, and the original data, photographic drawings, etc. can be included in the appendix; the seaweed field restoration effect evaluation report should be prepared once a year within 5 years after the implementation of the project; it can be adjusted subsequently according to the implementation frequency of follow-up monitoring surveys.

[0035] Specifically, the assessment conclusion and adaptive management should provide the restoration effect assessment conclusion and engineering management recommendations based on the overall restoration effect assessment results, which should include the following: 1) When the overall assessment result of the restoration effect is rated as excellent or good, it indicates that the overall condition of the restoration project has basically met expectations and the restoration effect of the seaweed field can be maintained through reasonable management and maintenance measures; 2) When the overall assessment level of the restoration effect is fair or poor, it indicates that the overall condition of the restoration project has not met expectations. A new suitability assessment of the restoration area should be conducted, and the restoration project content should be adjusted accordingly.

[0036] Application Case 1 The Dongying Municipal Ocean Development and Fisheries Bureau organized the application for the "2023 Dongying City, Shandong Province Marine Ecological Protection and Restoration Project" and planned a seaweed field restoration sub-project in the southern area of ​​the nature reserve with reference to the "Technical Guidelines for Seaweed Field Ecological Restoration and Effect Evaluation".

[0037] Time and area of ​​technology application: The technology application will start in January 2023. The restoration area is located in the southern part of Shandong Yellow River Delta National Nature Reserve and the eastern sea area of ​​Xiaodao River, with a total restoration area of ​​500 hectares.

[0038] Prominent ecological issues addressed: The waters near the Yellow River estuary suffer from excessive levels of inorganic nitrogen, an imbalance in the nitrogen-to-phosphorus ratio, and severe eutrophication, leading to structural and functional imbalances in the surrounding marine ecosystem. To address these ecological challenges, a seaweed restoration project is underway. Leveraging seaweed's nitrogen-absorbing properties, the project effectively removes excess inorganic nitrogen from seawater, improving water quality and enhancing marine biodiversity. The seaweed's carbon sequestration and wave-suppression properties also enhance the carbon sequestration capacity of the regional marine ecosystem and the coastal ecosystem's resilience to marine disasters. This restoration effort will be verified through follow-up monitoring and restoration evaluation.

[0039] Main practices and processes of technical implementation: Applying the key technical content of the "Technical Guidelines for Ecological Restoration and Effect Evaluation of Seaweed Fields", the project carried out preliminary investigations and problem diagnosis in the restoration area from January to April 2023. Through technical means such as basic data collection, on-site surveys, seaweed element surveys, and environmental element surveys, key information on the restoration area was obtained. In May, project tracking and monitoring was completed, and project survey data analysis and summary were carried out.

[0040] From June to August 2023, using the algae selection method provided by this technology, species such as copper algae were selected for transplantation. From September to December 2023, maintenance work will be carried out in the restoration area, with algae debris promptly cleaned to protect the water environment and autumn follow-up monitoring conducted. From February to March 2024, additional propagation of algae in the restoration area will be planned based on algae growth conditions. The project is expected to be completed and accepted by the end of 2024. Subsequently, effectiveness evaluation and monitoring will be conducted based on this technology, and a performance evaluation report will be completed. Further maintenance will be carried out in the restoration area to ensure the healthy and sustainable development of the ecosystem.

[0041] Specific achievements of technology application: (1) Restoration suitability evaluation The environmental suitability parameters specified in the technology, such as water depth, salinity, transparency, bottom type, and hydrodynamic conditions, were compared with background data to conduct a restoration suitability evaluation and assess the feasibility of implementing seaweed bed restoration in the area. The evaluation results are credible.

[0042] (2) Restoration methods and algae species selection By adopting the methods specified in the technology and combining the ecological characteristics of the water quality, bottom conditions and other aspects of the sea area near the Yellow River estuary, the method of restoring shellfish and algae reefs and the selection of restoration algae species were determined.

[0043] (3) Effect evaluation Using the methods specified in the technical guidelines, analyze the monitoring factors after implementing seaweed farm restoration work based on background values, evaluate the improvement of the water environment, the recovery and reconstruction of biological communities, and the improvement of biodiversity and biological resources, and assess the ecological benefits achieved by the seaweed farm restoration work. The project's completion rate, the ecological functions of the seaweed farm, and the economic and social benefits of the restoration project will be comprehensively evaluated to determine whether the restoration project has achieved its intended results.

[0044] Ecological, economic and social benefit analysis: The seaweed field ecological restoration and effect evaluation technology provides a complete technical system support for the Yellow River Estuary seaweed field restoration project. A 500-hectare sea area in the eastern part of Xiaodao River in Kenli District, Dongying City was optimized and selected as the restoration area. In view of the high suspended matter concentration and low visibility in the area, Gracilaria lemaneiformis of the Rhodophyta Gracilariaceae was selected as the restoration algae species. With an investment of nearly 6 million yuan, the seaweed field construction was successfully completed.

[0045] According to follow-up monitoring results, Gracilaria lemaneiformis absorbs large amounts of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus through its rapid growth and proliferation, partially addressing issues such as excessive inorganic nitrogen, an imbalance in the nitrogen-phosphorus ratio, and eutrophication in the restoration area. Furthermore, the creation of large-scale seaweed beds provides a habitat for marine life, significantly increasing biodiversity and significantly improving fishery resources, resulting in significant ecological benefits. Gracilaria lemaneiformis must be harvested upon maturity, and the project's implementing bodies have already harvested over 50,000 kilograms (50,000 jin) of this plant in an experimental harvest in 2023. The remaining seedlings can continue to reproduce, generating significant economic benefits.

[0046] Application Case 2 The Natural Resources Bureau of the Changdao Marine Ecological Civilization Comprehensive Experimental Zone in Yantai City organized the application for the "Yantai Marine Ecological Protection and Restoration Project", in which the seaweed field restoration sub-project was planned with reference to the "Technical Guidelines for Seaweed Field Ecological Restoration and Effect Evaluation".

[0047] Time and area of ​​technology application: The technology application starts in January 2022. The seaweed field ecological restoration area is located in the east and west coasts of Nanzhuang Village, Daheishan Island, Changdao County, Yantai City, with a total area of ​​approximately 6.61 .

[0048] Prominent ecological issues addressed: Changdao serves as a vital ecological security barrier for the Bohai Sea and even the maritime gateway between Beijing and Tianjin. The natural seaweed beds near Daheishan Island were severely damaged, with populations fragmented and ecosystem functions struggling to maintain. The seaweed restoration project has effectively restored the Sargassum population in the waters off Daheishan Island, improving the ecosystem's function and carbon sequestration capacity. This project has also helped build a benign island ecological spatial system encompassing "seaweed beds - ecological seawalls - vegetation protection belts - ecological islands," comprehensively protecting Changdao's marine ecosystem, improving the overall ecological quality of the region, and comprehensively enhancing disaster prevention and mitigation capabilities.

[0049] Main practices and processes of technical implementation: Applying key technical content from the "Technical Guidelines for Ecological Restoration and Effectiveness Evaluation of Seaweed Fields," the project developed a seaweed field restoration plan. A baseline survey of the proposed restoration area will be conducted by 2022, with comprehensive data collection and suitability assessment. Following a comprehensive evaluation of the algae species selection method provided by the technology, Sargassum was selected as the transplanted species.

[0050] From April to June 2022, we will carry out algae seed preparation and indoor seedling cultivation experiments. From July to August, we will implement habitat restoration projects such as returning the enclosure to the sea, micro-topography improvement, bottom pollution control, and pest control. From October to November, we will restore the seaweed field in the experimental area. , carry out follow-up monitoring and continuous maintenance.

[0051] From April to May 2023, this technology will be used to monitor and periodically evaluate the effectiveness of seaweed restoration in the pilot area, implementing adaptive management to address any remaining issues. From May to August, 5.61 hectares of seaweed will be restored, with follow-up monitoring and ongoing management and maintenance. From September to December, restoration evaluation and applicability management will continue, with long-term management and maintenance continuing after project acceptance.

[0052] Specific achievements of technology application: Using seaweed field ecological restoration and effectiveness assessment techniques, an ecological baseline survey was completed in the restoration area, accurately identifying stress factors. Suitability assessments were conducted to determine restoration areas and transplanted algae species, comprehensively considering the feasibility and economic benefits of restoration measures. Using techniques such as substrate remediation, algae seed acquisition and cultivation, transplantation and seeding, and post-implantation management measures, the seaweed field ecological restoration project has initially achieved the desired results.

[0053] The seaweed field restoration effect evaluation technology is used to comprehensively judge the completion of engineering indicators, the degree of recovery of the seaweed field's ecological functions, and the social and economic benefits, to fully reflect the restoration effect.

[0054] Tracking monitoring results show that the variety of algae in the restoration area has increased, the seawater quality has reached the functional area standards, the carbon storage, marine biodiversity and resource volume of the seaweed field have increased significantly, and the habitat of the rare and endangered species spotted seal has been improved. The rebuilt marine ecological chain has become the "first engine" for the development of Changdao's green industry.

[0055] Ecological, economic and social benefit analysis: Problems such as aquaculture and sea enclosure near the shore of Daheishan Island have caused serious damage to its natural seaweed beds.

[0056] This technology provides a comprehensive technical framework for the restoration of the Daheishan Island seaweed field. The project successfully established a Sargassum field and enables comprehensive evaluation of restoration results, contributing to the scientific implementation of seaweed field ecological restoration projects. The costs of this work primarily come from current surveys and remediation, algae breeding and transplantation, and ongoing maintenance and follow-up monitoring. The Yantai Changdao seaweed field restoration project used Sargassum as the restoration species, investing over 30 million yuan to complete the field construction. The restoration resulted in a significant increase in the field's biomass by over 30%.

[0057] Restoring the seaweed farm ecosystem will help establish a healthy ecological space system on Changdao Island and support the development of the Changdao National Nature Reserve and National Park. The seaweed farm's fishery resources have significantly increased, raising the value of carbon sinks. Seaweed harvesting, ecological fisheries, and ecotourism can all boost local economic development, generating significant ecological, economic, and social benefits.

[0058] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the process of implementing all or part of the steps of the above embodiments may be accomplished by hardware, or by instructing related hardware through a program.

[0059] The above shows and describes the basic principles, main features, and advantages of the present invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. The above embodiments and descriptions are merely preferred examples of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Various changes and improvements may be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Such changes and improvements fall within the scope of the present invention. The scope of protection claimed in the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for evaluating the effect of seaweed field ecological restoration, characterized in that: The steps include: S1. Analysis, diagnosis and preliminary preparation: Determine the ecological restoration site by collecting basic data and conducting on-site surveys. Combined with the current status survey results, understand the historical status, ecological status and main threats of the seaweed field, determine the reference ecosystem, diagnose the degree of seaweed field degradation, conduct a seaweed field ecological restoration suitability assessment, and carry out pre-restoration monitoring and preparation work; S2. Plan Development and Implementation: Comprehensively consider the economic and technical feasibility and ecological benefits of restoration measures, and on this basis, clarify restoration objectives, formulate restoration plans, and select seaweed field restoration methods and measures. Implement restoration projects according to the restoration plans, conduct phased and overall acceptance inspections, and facilitate subsequent management and maintenance. S3. Restoration project monitoring: including restoration process monitoring and long-term post-restoration monitoring; S4. Effect evaluation: Conduct follow-up monitoring during and after the implementation of the restoration project, conduct a comprehensive assessment of the restoration effect in terms of the completion of project indicators, the ecological functions of the seaweed field, and social benefits. Conduct adaptive management based on the assessment results, and prepare a seaweed field restoration project effect evaluation report. S5. Feedback and Adjustment: Based on the evaluation results, if the repair effect does not meet expectations, analyze the reasons and make adjustment suggestions to the problems to provide reference for subsequent repair work.

2. The method for evaluating the effect of seaweed field ecological restoration according to claim 1, characterized in that: In S1, the analysis, diagnosis and preliminary preparation process includes the following steps: S1.1, preliminary investigation; S1.

2. Determination of reference ecosystems: The reference ecosystem can be determined by using the pre-disturbance or historical seaweed farm ecosystem of the ecological restoration area, or existing seaweed farms in adjacent areas that have similar ecosystem characteristics to the seaweed farm ecological restoration area but have not been degraded or have been slightly degraded. At the same time, a comprehensive search for data on the reference ecosystem should be conducted, and the attributes of the reference ecosystem should be described in detail. S1.

3. Diagnosis of seaweed bed ecological degradation: The diagnosis includes the degree of degradation and the causes of degradation. Diagnostic indicators include at least the characteristics of the biological community, abiotic environmental factors, and stress factors. The degree of degradation of the seaweed bed is classified into three levels: mild degradation, moderate degradation, and severe degradation based on the comparison results with the reference ecosystem. S1.

4. Ecological Restoration Suitability Evaluation: Demonstrate the suitability of seaweed farm ecological restoration in the selected area and set suitability evaluation criteria. Areas that meet all the criteria, or can meet the criteria after ecological and environmental remediation, are considered suitable; otherwise, they are considered unsuitable. S1.

5. Monitoring point establishment: Establish multiple representative monitoring points in the proposed seaweed farm restoration area. The distribution of monitoring points should cover different locations and habitat conditions in the restoration area to ensure that the status of the restoration area is fully reflected; S1.

6. Determine monitoring indicators: Monitoring indicators shall include at least engineering indicators, ecological function indicators and social and economic benefit indicators.

3. The method for evaluating the effect of seaweed field ecological restoration according to claim 2, characterized in that: In S1.1, the preliminary investigation process includes the following steps: S1.1.

1. Data Collection: Understand the historical distribution, community characteristics, environmental conditions, and threats of the seaweed beds within the proposed restoration area by reviewing literature, consulting experts, and visiting local marine-related organizations and residents. S1.1.

2. Site survey: Understand the basic environmental characteristics of the proposed restoration area and preliminarily identify the existing stressors of the seaweed field, including human interference and natural factors; S1.1.

3. Site selection for ecological restoration; S1.1.

4. Current Status Survey: Conduct a current status survey of both seaweed and environmental factors within the selected ecological restoration site. Survey items for seaweed factors include the distribution and community of seaweed, while survey items for environmental factors include the water environment, sediment environment, and biological ecology. S1.1.5 Identification of stress factors: Based on data collection, site investigation and current situation survey results, identify stress factors affecting the seaweed site.

4. The method for evaluating the effect of seaweed field ecological restoration according to claim 3, characterized in that: In S2, the process of program formulation and implementation includes the following steps: Plan formulation stage S2.

1. Restoration Objectives: The ecological restoration objectives of seaweed farms include overall objectives and phased objectives. The formulation of ecological restoration objectives for seaweed farms focuses on restoring seaweed communities, the ecological functions of seaweed farms, and ecosystem services, while also taking into account social needs. The established ecological restoration objectives must be quantifiable and assessable. S2.

2. Preparation of restoration plan: The preparation of restoration plan shall at least include project content, specific technologies and measures, risk analysis and emergency management, construction schedule, budget and long-term maintenance; S2.

3. Determination of restoration methods: Seaweed farm restoration methods include natural restoration and artificial assisted restoration. Natural restoration is suitable for slightly degraded seaweed farms, while artificial assisted restoration is suitable for moderately or severely degraded seaweed farms that cannot recover naturally. S2.4, setting up seaweed field restoration measures; S2.

5. Implementation of ecological restoration project: Organize and implement according to the seaweed field ecological restoration project plan; S2.

6. Ecological restoration and protection measures: Strictly implement ecological restoration and protection according to the ecological restoration and protection plan until the ecological restoration goals are achieved.

5. The method for evaluating the effect of seaweed field ecological restoration according to claim 4, characterized in that: In S2.4, seaweed field restoration measures include habitat improvement and planting restoration; Habitat remediation includes habitat management and substrate remediation. Habitat management involves controlling the factors that cause seaweed bed degradation, implementing area closures for conservation, and eliminating or reducing human interference with seaweed beds. Substrate remediation involves cleaning or preparing the substrate to restore the bottom environment. The contents of planting restoration include the selection of restoration algae species, the source of restoration algae species, the collection and cultivation of algae species and the planting methods; Among them, the restoration algae species are selected according to the suitability evaluation results; For the source of algae seeds for restoration, select seaweed fields with thriving growth, high coverage, and continuous distribution as the collection sites; at the same time, the environmental conditions of the algae sites must be similar to those in the restoration area; Algae seed collection and cultivation include reproductive branch collection, spore or larvae collection and seedling cultivation; Planting methods include reproductive branch sowing method, spore or juvenile sowing method, and seedling transplantation method; the planting time is determined according to the biological characteristics of different algae species, and is carried out on cloudy or overcast days with less wind and waves on the sea.

6. The method for evaluating the effect of seaweed field ecological restoration according to claim 5, characterized in that: In S3, the process of monitoring the restoration project includes: First, determine the survey elements and methods for the follow-up monitoring survey: the survey elements and methods should be consistent with the previous survey in S1.1; Second, set the monitoring frequency and time: conduct follow-up monitoring during and after the implementation of the restoration project; And according to the set monitoring time, the restoration project monitoring process is divided into restoration process monitoring and long-term post-restoration monitoring; Restoration process monitoring includes: regularly monitoring project indicators during the restoration project, recording the progress of algae transplantation and substrate remediation, and ensuring the project proceeds as planned; Post-repair long-term monitoring means: continuing long-term monitoring after the restoration project is completed.

7. The method for evaluating the effect of seaweed field ecological restoration according to claim 6, characterized in that: In S4, the effect evaluation process includes the following steps: S4.

1. Establish a comprehensive assessment model, assigning appropriate weights to engineering indicators, ecological function indicators, and socioeconomic benefit indicators based on the degree of impact of different indicators on the ecological restoration of seaweed fields. The process of establishing the comprehensive assessment model specifically includes: S4.1.

1. Calculation of project indicator completion: The project indicator completion is the ratio of the actual completion value of the project indicator to the preset value of the project indicator; S4.1.

2. Calculation of the seaweed field ecological function assessment score: The seaweed field ecological function includes seaweed elements and environmental elements; S4.1.

3. Calculate social impact scores: Set the questionnaire content and scoring method, distribute the questionnaire to residents living near the restored seaweed field, and evaluate the social benefits of the restoration project through questionnaire scoring; S4.1.

4. Overall evaluation of restoration results: Comprehensively evaluate the restoration project based on the degree of project completion, the ecological function of the seaweed field, and social benefits; S4.

2. Standardize the data of each monitoring indicator to eliminate the impact of dimension and make the data of different indicators comparable; S4.

3. Substitute the processed data into the evaluation model to calculate the comprehensive evaluation score of the seaweed farm ecological restoration; S4.

4. The repair effect levels are divided according to the scores to intuitively demonstrate the repair effect.

8. The method for evaluating the effect of seaweed field ecological restoration according to claim 7, characterized in that: In S4.1.1, the calculation formula for project indicator completion is: Where, Indicates the project indicator completion score, Indicates the The scores of the evaluation indicators, Indicates the The weight of each evaluation indicator; The evaluation indicators for project completion shall include at least the planting area and planting density; The constraints of this formula are: Introducing dynamic weight optimization calculation results and adjusting weights according to the repair stage; The repair phase is , the weight function is , the optimized formula is: Where, Indicates the completion score of the engineering indicators after the introduction of dynamic weight optimization. for Phase I The scores of the evaluation indicators, for Phase I The weight of the evaluation indicator.

9. The method for evaluating the effect of seaweed field ecological restoration according to claim 8, characterized in that: The process for calculating the seaweed farm ecological function assessment score in S4.1.2 includes: First, in the seaweed factor assessment, the recovery rate calculation formula of the assessment index is: Where, Indicates the The recovery rate of the evaluation indicators is Indicates the The survey values ​​of the evaluation indicators, Indicates the reference ecosystem Item evaluation index value; among which, the evaluation index of seaweed factor assessment includes at least the distribution area recovery rate and coverage recovery rate; The calculation formula for the seaweed factor score is: Where, Indicates the seaweed factor score, Indicates the The evaluation score of the recovery rate of the evaluation indicator, Indicates the The weight of each evaluation indicator; Secondly, the environmental factor assessment requires calculation of various parameters of the seaweed field community, including both the community and the water environment. The calculation formula for the environmental factor assessment of the seaweed field is: Where, represents the environmental factor score of the seaweed field; Indicates the biome The scores of the evaluation indicators, Indicates the biome The weight of the evaluation indicators, represents the total number of biome assessment indicators; Indicates the water environment The scores of the evaluation indicators, Indicates the water environment The weight of the evaluation indicators, Indicates the total number of water environment assessment indicators; Finally, combining the evaluation results of seaweed factors and environmental factors, the calculation formula for the biological function evaluation of seaweed fields is: Where, represents the ecological function score of the seaweed field; On the basis of the above, we first combine the entropy weight method and use the discrete degree of the indicator data to objectively determine the weight; for the seaweed factor evaluation, we first calculate the entropy value of each indicator. , and then get the entropy weight , combined with the subjective weight determined by the hierarchical analysis method , and the weights are obtained by combining (α is the weight combination coefficient, 0<α<1) to calculate the seaweed factor score; similarly, for the environmental factor assessment, the evaluation index weights of the biological community and the water environment are obtained respectively and ,in, are weight combination coefficients, and ; Furthermore, considering the time dimension, the calculation formula of seaweed factor scoring and the calculation formula of seaweed field environmental factor evaluation are dynamically optimized, and the time variable is introduced. , adjust the formulas: In the calculation formula of the recovery rate of seaweed factor evaluation indicators, express Moment The survey values ​​of the evaluation indicators, The corresponding dynamic reference value can be set according to the repair process , to reflect the phased changes in the restoration goals, and obtain the adjusted Recovery rate of evaluation indicators ; For the seaweed factor scoring formula, express Moment Evaluation score of the recovery rate of the evaluation indicator, weight It can also be adjusted over time to highlight the importance of key indicators at different restoration stages to obtain an adjusted seaweed factor score ; The environmental factor assessment formula is the same. 、 They are Biomes and water environments at all times 、 The scores of the evaluation indicators, The weight corresponding to the moment 、 It should also change dynamically to obtain the adjusted seaweed field environmental factor score ; In addition, the interaction between indicators is considered: when calculating the ecological function score of the seaweed field, the indicator interaction coefficient is introduced , Respectively represent different indicators in seaweed factors and environmental factors; the adjusted formula is: Where, are the number of seaweed factor and environmental factor indicators, 、 are the scores of the corresponding indicators respectively.

10. The method for evaluating the effect of seaweed field ecological restoration according to claim 9, characterized in that: In S4.1.4, the basic formula for comprehensive evaluation of the engineering restoration effect of the restoration project is: Where, Indicates the overall score of the engineering repair effect. Indicates the weight of the project indicator completion degree, represents the weight of the seaweed field ecological function assessment, represents the social benefit score, represents the weight of social benefit evaluation; Combining the optimization and improvement of the above formulas, the final formula for comprehensive evaluation of the engineering restoration effect of the restoration project is: Where, It represents the overall score of the engineering repair effect after optimization and improvement.

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