## 4 Discussion
### Impact of Different Drivers on ESs  
This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the impact of driving factors on the ESs in the SHMB. The spatial distribution of the ESs in the SHMB exhibited significant spatial heterogeneity, which stems from the multiple effects of socioeconomic, ecological and natural conditions [50]. The spatial and temporal distribution of the ESs varied under different drivers, which were categorized into climatic factors, vegetation factors, geographic factors, and socioeconomic factors.  
(1) Combined effects of climate and vegetation factors  
Precipitation, as the primary water source for plant growth, is generally positively correlated with vegetation growth [51; 52]. Adequate rainfall promotes plant growth, thereby increasing regional CS, improving soil quality, and enhancing food production capacity [53]. Vegetation factors, through processes such as photosynthesis and organic matter accumulation, increase CS and FP capacity. Additionally, they help to slow down runoff, retain soil, and filter pollutants, thereby improving water quality and soil health [54].  
(2) Geographic factors  
Geographic factors significantly influence ESs through hydrological processes, vegetation distribution, and geographic features [55]. In the SHMB, topography positively impacts factors such as CS and SC. The rich vegetation in the plateaus and mountainous areas promotes plant growth and organic matter accumulation, thereby enhancing carbon storage. Furthermore, SC is closely related to elevation, slope, and aspect. High-altitude and steep areas are often more susceptible to soil erosion due to substantial variations in runoff. In karst rocky desertification areas, although the groundwater system is well developed, the soil layer is thin and prone to erosion, resulting in low vegetation coverage. This leads to a significant negative correlation between WY and topographical factors [56].  
(3) Dynamic impact of socioeconomic factors  
Human activities and policy interventions often exert complex and dynamic effects on ESs through socioeconomic factors. Although the overall impact of these factors on the ESs in the SHMB is relatively low, their influence should not be underestimated. In certain areas, limitations due to natural conditions, insufficient policy support, and fragile ecological environments prevent socioeconomic factors from having a noticeable impact. Nevertheless, with the backing of ecological protection policies, rational land use and management strategies can still optimize the configuration of ESs in localized regions.  
In summary, climate, vegetation, geography, and socioeconomic factors collectively influence the distribution and changes of ESs through complex interactions. This multilayered spatial heterogeneity provides a scientific basis for the management and optimization of ESs in the region. Understanding the mechanisms of these factors will assist in formulating more effective ecological management policies to address ecological demands at different scales. At the same time, threshold effects of influencing factors also exist within the ecosystem. For instance, the threshold effects of temperature and precipitation on ecosystems, crop yields, and water resource management require further investigation.