Assessing Ecological Security Pattern by Integrating Multiple Risks in the Structure–Process–Function Framework: A Case Study from Heilongjiang Province, China

Ecological security is fundamental to human survival and sustainable development. However, current assessment frameworks often lack regional adaptability. They also frequently overlook the security risks associated with landscape patterns. To address these gaps, this study establishes a “structure–process–function” framework that integrates potential ecological risks. Using Heilongjiang Province as a case study, we assessed the spatiotemporal evolution of its ecological security pattern. The results indicate that: (1) The average ecological security pattern index (ESPI) values for Heilongjiang in 2000, 2010, and 2020 were 0.6869, 0.6573, and 0.6752, respectively. This trend exhibits an initial decline followed by partial recovery, with unsafe areas distributed sporadically. (2) The spatial pattern remained relatively stable but showed significant regional heterogeneity. Yichun City achieved the highest security level, while insecure areas were primarily concentrated in Daqing City. (3) Regarding specific dimensions, habitat fragmentation (structural security) was prevalent in central agricultural and urban areas; soil erosion (process security) remained significant in the southeastern regions, despite overall stability; and ecosystem services (functional security) followed a “degradation–adjustment–recovery” trend from 2000 to 2020. This framework effectively achieves the coupled assessment of landscape patterns and ecological security, providing scientific support for regional ecological management.