Methodology and results for selection and prioritization of selenium-rich land: A case study of Shucheng County, Anhui Province

Selenium-rich land resources are increasingly attracting public attention; however, the methodology for their selection and prioritization remains under-studied. Using the geochemical survey data of land quality in Shucheng County, Anhui Province, this study delineated the distinctive selenium-rich land in the study area in accordance with the Delineation and Logo of Natural Selenium-rich Land (DZ/T 0380—2021). A total of seven relatively contiguous selenium-rich land plots were identified. By comprehensively analyzing the key factors that constrain the resource endowment, development, and utilization of selenium-rich land, this study established a methodological and technical indicator system for prioritizing and grading selenium-rich land. Based on this system, the seven selenium-rich land plots in the study area were prioritized and graded, with four selected for further verification, yielding favorable results. One of the four selenium-rich land plots was included in the fifth batch of natural selenium-rich land plots recognized by the Geological Society of China. Overall, this study provides technical support for the evaluation, delineation, development, and utilization of selenium-rich land resources in Shucheng County, as well as a methodological and technical framework for similar work in China.