The project’s overarching goal is to create a spatial model that guides conservation interventions for the Ship Sturgeon and serves as a replicable framework for other aquatic species. Engaging with local communities, conservation organizations, and policymakers will be key to disseminating findings and supporting actionable, data-informed conservation strategies.

Project objectives

• Data collection: utilise satellite imagery and remote sensing to gather data on water quality, topography, land use and other environmental variables that affect the ship sturgeon’s habitat.
• Field surveys: conduct ground-based surveys to validate remote sensing data, identify suitable spawning sites and gather local insights into anthropogenic threats such as indiscriminate fishing and pollution.
• Data integration and analysis: merge remote sensing, GIS data and field survey results to analyse key factors affecting the sturgeon populations.
• Spatial modelling: develop a predictive model that leverages machine learning algorithms to forecast habitat suitability and potential threats.
• Stakeholder engagement and knowledge transfer: engage with local communities, conservation organizations and policymakers to disseminate findings and contribute to actionable conservation strategies.

Project activities

Data collection

• Remote sensing: high-resolution satellite imagery and drone-based multispectral cameras will be employed to capture detailed environmental data of the Ili river region. This data will focus on key habitat parameters such as water quality, topography and land use patterns crucial to the Ship Sturgeon’s survival.
• Field surveys: ground-based field surveys will be conducted to validate remote sensing data and gather additional environmental information. This includes water quality monitoring at selected river stations, GPS mapping of critical habitats and manual observation of sturgeon spawning sites. Instruments such as water quality meters, and cameras will be used to ensure precise data collection.
• River water quality monitoring: continuous monitoring of water quality at specific sites along the Ili river will be performed to assess variables such as pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and pollutant levels. This data is vital for understanding the health of the river and its suitability for sturgeon habitats.

Data integration

• All collected data from remote sensing, field surveys, and water quality monitoring will be integrated into a Geographic Information System (GIS) platform. This comprehensive dataset will allow for in-depth spatial analysis and will serve as the basis for developing the spatial model.

Spatial analysis and modelling

• Using GIS software, the integrated data will be analysed to identify key environmental and anthropogenic factors affecting the Ship Sturgeon habitats. A spatial model will be developed to map optimal habitats, potential spawning sites, and areas at risk from human activities. The results will be classified to highlight zones requiring immediate conservation attention and those suitable for restoration efforts.

Results classification

• The outcomes of the spatial analysis will be categorised based on habitat suitability, threat levels and conservation priorities. This classification will guide targeted conservation interventions and support decision-making for long-term sturgeon preservation in the Ili river region.

This project is implemented by Xi Xi, China Earthquake Administration, Institute of Geology.