Monitoring of steppe degradation by using MODIS FPAR in Xilingol, Inner Mongolia

摘要

This research deals with monitoring steppe degradation of semi-arid grassland in Xilingol League, Inner Mongolia. The analysis is based on data of MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) and using a GIS (Geographical Information System). We assessed the spatial extent and severity of steppe degradation by mapping different degradation degrees based on the frequency distribution feature of FPAR (Fraction of Photosynthetically Active Radiation absorbed by vegetation). We used the map of steppe degradation and its changes in space and time in Xilingol, and analyzed them with DEM and soil type map. It revealed that large-scale patterns of steppe degradation were related strongly to elevation and soil type. The result showed the change of degradation in space is significant during the past five years and the aggravation of degradation is in the following order: 2000 > 2004 > 2002 > 2003 > 2001.