Dynamics of productivity of restored vegetation of the Izykhsky surface mine (Terra Modis)

Abstract

The subject of the study is the course of the dynamics of vegetation productivity on the dumps of the surface mine «Izykhsky» (2000-2019), using Terra Modis. The aim is to identify patterns of seasonal and long-term dynamics of restored vegetation as a result of succession according to images. The methodology included processing information on gross primary production and evapotranspiration, as well as identifying the relationship with meteorological data for 2018-2019. There is a positive trend in the long-term dynamics – in terms of total gross primary production from 1.7 to 5.5 kg/m2/8 days and in evapotranspiration from 1142 to 2784 kg/m2/8 days. The evapotranspiration correlated with the productivity. Since 2016, productivity has reached a plateau, which indicates the development of ecological niches by plants. The phytomass of the restored vegetation was in 1.5 times greater, than the mass of the steppe site. Seasonal dynamics in 2019 showed that communities on dumps have higher productivity, in contrast to the steppe, and one peak in the first ten days of July. The sum of temperatures and productivity had a high relationship (R2 = 0.7) in comparison with the steppe (R2 = 0.2). Terra Modis data can be applied in the field of ecological monitoring of vegetation of coal dumps.