Cartographic visualization of ecotones: analysis of experience, modern approaches and methods

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to analyze the experience of cartographic visualization of ecotones, approaches to ecotone delineation, and to substantiate the methodology of their identification using geoinformation technologies.

Main material. The paper analyzes scientific approaches to ecotone mapping presented in the works of foreign and Ukrainian researchers. The peculiarities of discrete models, within which ecotones are interpreted as clear boundaries between natural complexes, gradient models reflecting the gradual nature of environmental changes, as well as buffer and combined approaches that consider the spatial uncertainty of ecotone boundaries are considered. The possibilities of using geographic information systems, multilayer spatial analysis, and spectral indices for the identification and visualization of ecotones are analysed. Attention is paid to modern challenges associated with the transformation of natural landscapes in Ukraine under the influence of climate change and military actions.

A methodology for identifying three-component ecotones within protected areas of Kharkiv region based on the application of a combined approach with extensive use of geoinformation analysis methods and remote sensing data is proposed.

Conclusions. The conducted research has shown that cartographic visualization of ecotones is one of the most complex areas of modern thematic cartography due to the spatial heterogeneity, dynamism, and indistinct boundaries of transitional natural zones. The analysis of scientific approaches demonstrated that the evolution of ecotone visualization methods has progressed from classical discrete models to modern combined geoinformation approaches.

The generalization of domestic and foreign scientific approaches to ecotone mapping made it possible to trace their evolution from discrete to combined approaches and revealed that the most promising method for the identification and mapping of ecotones, including three-component ecotones, is the combined approach integrating elements of discrete, gradient, and buffer analysis using geographic information systems and remote sensing data.

It has been determined that under current conditions of transformation of natural landscapes in Ukraine caused by climate change, urbanization, and the consequences of military actions, the application of remote sensing and geoinformation technologies becomes especially important for the оперативе identification and analysis of ecotones. The use of modern GIS platforms provides opportunities for integrating heterogeneous spatial information sources and creating more accurate cartographic models of the natural environment.

A promising direction for further research is the development of automated methods for ecotone identification using machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence. Their application will improve the accuracy of cartographic visualization, ensure prompt updating of geodata, and enhance environmental monitoring systems for natural territories.