Theoretical construction and empirical research on scenic-town symbiotic space: A case study of Huangshan Mountain scenic spot and gateway towns

Scenic-town symbiotic space refers to a composite spatial system that emerges from the spatial interaction of economic, social, and cultural elements between scenic spot and town. Additionally, it functions as the geographic spatial carrier that accommodates scenic-town symbiotic relationships. This paper introduces the symbiosis theory to construct the theoretical framework and index system of scenic-town symbiotic space. Theoretical analysis reveals that the scenic-town symbiotic space can be categorized into four types: superimposed, inclusive, overlapping, and separated. Economical, social and cultural symbiosis serve as the dynamic driving forces that propel the operational dynamics of scenic-town symbiotic space. From the perspective of symbiotic relationships, the spatial patterns of scenic-town symbiosis are classified into three fundamental types, namely commensalism, asymmetric mutualism, and symmetric mutualism. Furthermore, these patterns manifest four distinct evolutionary paths: positive, cyclical, stable, and reverse evolution. Then taking Huangshan Mountain scenic spot and its gateway towns as examples, the evolution characteristics and patterns of symbiotic space in scenic spot and towns are discussed, through the application of gravity model, kernel density estimation and Lotka-Volterra symbiosis model. The empirical results indicate that: 1) The development of this space exhibits significant systemic imbalance and co-evolution. During the study period, the development index of the scenic spot experienced short-term fluctuations but long-term stability. The development indices of the gateway towns increased markedly, albeit with substantial internal disparities, while the capacity of the symbiotic environment continued to improve. 2) The symbiotic correlation intensity between Huangshan Mountain scenic spot and gateway towns shows distinct gradient differences. Specifically, the correlation with Tangkou Town was the strongest and most stable, followed by Jiaocun Town, Tanjiaqiao Town, and Gengcheng Town. The symbiotic space between the scenic spot and these towns is characterized by a multi-nucleated, overlapping, and circular spatial structure. 3) In the process of dynamic adjustment of the symbiotic relationship between scenic spot and town, Huangshan Mountain scenic spot and Tangkou Town show a reverse evolution development model of symmetrical mutualism-partialism symbiosis; with Tanjiaqiao Town, it follows a stable evolution model of partial symbiosis; and with Gengcheng Town and Jiaocun Town, it demonstrates a positive evolution model of asymmetric mutualism-partialism symbiosis. This theoretical and empirical investigation holds significant implications for fostering harmonious coexistence between scenic spot and town, optimizing regional tourism spatial layouts, and promoting sustainable development.