Spatio-temporal pattern and influencing factors of sloping farmland in China

Sloping farmland, particularly in mountainous and hilly areas, constitutes a significant component of regional farmland resources. An investigation into the spatio-temporal pattern of sloping farmland and its influencing factors in China is imperative for the efficient utilization of farmland and the optimization of land space. We used land use transfer matrix, geographically weighted regression model and geographical detector to conduct this study. Results showed that sloping farmland in China firstly decreased and then increased from 2000 to 2020. The proportion of sloping farmland decreased radially outward from Sichuan basin to the surrounding areas. Change rates of sloping farmland with different slopes varied and the slope with 6°-15° underwent the fastest changes. The influencing factors of farmland at various slope degrees were different. For sloping farmland below 15°, land use intensity and elevation had the greatest contribution. For sloping farmland between 15° and 25°, elevation, land use intensity, and population density were the main influencing factors. Sloping farmland above 25° was mostly affected by natural factors. This study can provide scientific basis for rational development and protection of sloping farmland.