Work

An improved habitat suitability model with dual diagnostic outputs for identifying limiting factors and management priorities: Application to algal blooms in Taihu Lake

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Conventional Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) models rely on fixed thresholds and lack diagnostic outputs for management guidance. This study presents an improved HSI framework—the Tolerance-Driven Aquatic Habitat Model (TDAHM)—incorporating monthly-calibrated thresholds and dual diagnostic outputs. The framework was applied to simulate algal habitat suitability in Taihu Lake, China (2016–2018). The model achieved correlation coefficients of r = 0.61 (calibration) and r = 0.70 (validation), reproducing the bimodal seasonal bloom pattern. Monthly thresholds ranged from 0.72 to 0.91, reflecting seasonal variations in habitat requirements. Limiting factor analysis identified NH3-N (49.4%) and DO (18.7%) as dominant bottlenecks following Liebig's Law, while management priority analysis revealed TP (39.7%), WT (32.0%), and TN (21.7%) as primary contributors based on weighted HSI contributions. This discrepancy provides complementary management perspectives: limiting factors identify acute local bottlenecks, while management priorities highlight strategic targets for lake-wide improvement. Results suggest short-term efforts should address localized ammonia constraints, while long-term planning should prioritize phosphorus and nitrogen control. The TDAHM framework offers a practical complement to traditional HSI approaches.

Source: Ecological Indicators

DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolind.2026.114851

Authors: Ruichen Xu, Yong Niu, Xia Jiang, Jia Wang, Yiming Pang, Ziyue Zhu

Institutions: Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, University of Virginia

Language: English

Topic: Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics

Subfield: Environmental Chemistry

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Clean water and sanitation

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,650