Dynamic evolution of urban landscape spatial pattern and evaluation of ecological vulnerability

Inconsistent data and classification standards hinder objective analysis of urban landscape changes and ecological vulnerability. This study presents an integrated method to address this. Using Landsat imagery, urban landscape types in Rizhao City were classified, and their dynamics were quantified via a land cover transition matrix. An evaluation system was built using landscape pattern indicators from three aspects: ecosystem pressure, sensitivity, and resilience. Indicator weights were determined via an improved entropy weight method, and a weighted sum model calculated a comprehensive vulnerability index for different landscape types.Results showed significant spatial changes in Rizhao City over 30 years, with a clear trend of decreasing green space and expanding non-green space. Analysis revealed differentiated ecological vulnerability: Zones I and II (low vulnerability) comprised 9.23% and 40.32% of the area respectively, located in central/southwestern regions with high ecological carrying capacity suitable for development. In contrast, the more vulnerable Zone IV (16.39%), characterized by mountainous terrain, requires controlled development to maintain ecological balance.