Study on suitable distribution areas of Cyathula officinalis in Sichuan province based on remote sensing and GIS / 中草药

ABSTRACT

Objective: To evaluate the suitability of Cyathula officinalis resources grown in Sichuan province, and provide a reference of the monitoring for traditional Chinese medicine resource. Methods: Taking the planting of C. officinalis in Sichuan province as an example, The topography, climate, soil, and vegetation of C. officinalis were researched using remote sensing and GIS techniques, binding environment factors in growing and adopting the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and spatial analysis method. According to the different classification of index factors, the classification map of the suitable area for C. officinalis was obtained and the field measurements were combined to verify. Results: The C. officinalis resources in Sichuan province were mainly distributed in about 19 cities or autonomous prefectures such as Leshan City, Ya'an City, Yi Autonomous Prefecture of Liangshan, and Yibin City with suitability distribution areas of 3 633.52 km2 approximately and accounting for 0.76% of the total area. According to the field investigation, related documents, and information records, the suitability distribution based on RS and GIS correspond with the actual distribution areas of C. officinalis resources. Conclusion: It is a feasible method to divide the suitability distribution area of C. officinalis Kuan by using RS and GIS as quickly and accurately as possible. It can also provide a support on scientific and date basis to a complete investigation on suitable distribution areas, protection, rational development and utilization of C. officinalis and other medical materials.