Evaluation and Optimization of Hydrological Connectivity Based on Graph Theory: A Case Study in Dongliao River Basin, China

Hydrological connectivity affects the material cycling and energy transfer of ecosystems is an important indicator for assessing function aquatic ecosystems. Therefore, clarification hydrologic its optimization methods essential basin water resources management other problems; however, most current research focused on intermittently flooded areas, especially in terms optimization, hydrological regulation within mature structures, while dry, low rainfall plain areas remains scarce. Based graph binary cycle theories, this study assessed hierarchically optimized structural Dongliao River Basin (DRB), integrating artificial natural connectivity, explored method arid region at scale to increase pathways. The spatial analysis evaluation was also carried out based results hierarchical provided three scenarios construction projects basin. yielded a total 230 new paths, overall increased from 5.07 7.64. Our suggest large correlation flow obstruction DRB. center gravity circulation shifted south after different levels connectivity. With level national Moran index rose then fell. magnitude effects varied levels, there were sudden points’ points. From application point view, Scenario 1 necessary cost effective 2, which provides scientific basis guiding future ecological